17. The fighting that day was very heavy. Abner and the men of Israel lost the battle to David's men.
18. The three sons of Zeruiah were there. Their names were Joab, Abishai and Asahel. Asahel was as quick on his feet as a wild antelope.
19. He chased Abner. He didn't turn to the right or the left as he chased him.
20. Abner looked behind him. He asked, "Asahel, is that you?" "It is," he answered.
21. Then Abner said to him, "Turn to the right or the left. Fight one of the young men. Take his weapons away from him." But Asahel wouldn't stop chasing him.