17. A fierce battle followed that day, and Abner and the men of Israel were defeated by the forces of David.
18. Joab, Abishai, and Asahel—the three sons of Zeruiah—were among David’s forces that day. Asahel could run like a gazelle,
19. and he began chasing Abner. He pursued him relentlessly, not stopping for anything.
20. When Abner looked back and saw him coming, he called out, “Is that you, Asahel?”“Yes, it is,” he replied.
21. “Go fight someone else!” Abner warned. “Take on one of the younger men, and strip him of his weapons.” But Asahel kept right on chasing Abner.
22. Again Abner shouted to him, “Get away from here! I don’t want to kill you. How could I ever face your brother Joab again?”