Chapter 8
There were many ships at Pelargir. Tall, black ships with dark sails and hundreds of crewmen aboard.
The Grey Company watched as Aragorn strode to the river's edge. He addressed the corsairs in the nearest ship.
"You may go no further. You will not be allowed to enter Gondor."
The crew laughed as their captain shouted back. "And who are you to deny us passage?"
Aragorn did not answer but turned and raised Andúril. "Come!" He shouted. "By the Black Stone I call you!"
Shapes became discernible through the grey mist that hovered about the Dead. Ghostly men leapt forward and glided across the water toward the ships.
The mere sight filled the Harad sailors with terror. Some of them–when they jumped overboard–came to the shore, only to find the Grey Company waiting. Screams of fear filled the air as both the Dead and the Grey Company charged forward.
Aragorn led the Company's charge. All the Dúnadan, Elladan and Elrohir, Legolas, and Gimli followed, but the soldiers scattered and fled. Some of the swarthy men tried to stand and fight but were swiftly cut down.
Soon it was all over. Except for the oar-slaves all the ships were emptied, and the Dead lined up on the shore, waiting.
On the largest ship Elrohir handed Aragorn a silver horn. He blew on it, and the Dead turned their attention toward him.
"Hear the words of the Heir of Isildur!" Aragorn spoke. "I hold your oath fulfilled. Depart and be at peace."
With a sigh the King of the Dead and his host departed. The ships, now crewed by free men, began rowing up the Anduin.