Okay, I read some passages and I stay with my earlier point (which is good for the discussion anyway
)
When Aragron mentions he'll take the Paths of the Dead in "The Passage of the Grey Company" it reads:
Quote:
We must ride our own road, and no longer in secret. For me the time of stealth has passed. I will ride east by the swiftest way, and I will take the Paths of the Dead.'
'The Paths of the Dead!' said Théoden, and trembled. 'Why do you speak of them?'
...
it seemed to Merry that the faces of the Riders that sat within hearing turned pale at the words.
...
'You will do as you will, my lord Aragorn,' said Théoden. 'It is your doom, maybe, and my strength is lessened by it[.]'
|
It seems to me Aragorn's decision is weakening the army as I said previously.