The cavalry officer's name was Ramons. He was an outstanding figure in the Rohirrim army whom King Theoden knew by name. He was even a strong contender for the hand of the king's goddaughter, Eowyn, in marriage. His excellence and great potential were evident.
Reef's 'Holy Grasp' had yet to activate, but an indescribable chill had already crept into Ramons' heart.
Why do men fear death? It was because they know nothing about the world after death!
At the current time, Ramons was feeling fear because even though he could feel that something would happen, he knew not what it was! He could only follow his cavalry's instinct and pull on his horse's reins hard. That alarmed the horse. It reared up and neighed loudly.
This was a very practical and efficient move. He was now almost completely hidden behind the horse, reducing the area of his body exposed to frontal attacks by at least 90%. However, it also meant that he would probably lose his mount.