Aragorn by his courage and leadership proves himself a worthy ruler of men.
Gandalf brings Pippin with him, who enters the service of the steward. Then Gandalf delivers news to the steward of Gondor that war is imminent. He steals Saruman's palantír and sees that Sauron will attack Minas Tirith. The story begins as Pippin is in Rohan, reunited with the remnants of the Fellowship of the Ring.
Tolkien's design for the dust-jacket of The Return of the King, depicting empty throne of Gondor.