The Companions of the Ring have become involved in separate adventures as the quest continues. 

Aragorn, who is revealed as the hidden heir of the ancient Kings of the West, joins with the Riders of Rohan against the forces of Isengard, and takes part in the desperate victory of the Hornburg. Merry and Pippin, are captured by orcs, escape into Fangorn Forest and there encounter the Ents. Gandalf returns, miraculously, and defeats the evil wizard, Saruman. Meanwhile, Sam and Frodo progress towards Mordor to destroy the Ring, accompanied by Smeagol - Gollum, still obsessed by his 'preciouss'.