The Ents, like the forces of good, believe in the importance
of free will. They're very independent and can't be forced to
do something they don't want to do. Treebeard can only
lead by convincing them he is right. After a lengthy council
meeting, they decide to march on Isengard, to stop
Saruman.

The story at this point returns to Aragorn, Legolas, and
Gimli. In the forest they meet Gandalf, who tells them that
Merry and Pippin are in safe hands. They learn from the
wizard how he fought with the Balrog after his fall and at
last overcame him. Gandalf passed through fire and death
and emerged renewed. He is no longer Gandalf the Grey,
but Gandalf the White, taking Saruman's place.

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