The three brothers came to an inner courtyard inside the fort and village. Asahel had caught up after his conversation, which had kept him smiling and warm.

A group of 20 or so soldiers, all ready for war, came to attention as Joab walked forward.

Joab slowly walked by, observing them.

He looked like a hungry bear or lion as he moved between the rows, breathing heavily and almost snarling.

Joab got into the face of some of the younger ones and stared, but then finally stepped back to Abishai and Asahel and faced all of the young warriors.

"I need nine," he growled.

Nobody moved or responded.

"If you want to serve the true king, and make sure his house does not fall, step forward."

A few stepped forward immediately.

Another warrior came to Abishai during the process and whispered in his hear. Abi nodded then whispered something back, and pointed for them to leave.

A few more volunteered. Then a few more. Soon, 10 stood before them. Joab nodded.

He pointed at a young man in an trench coat and armor too big for him, hanging off his shoulders.

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"You are the tenth. You will watch and tell the tale."

The young man nodded, thrilled he could go, and even more thrilled he wouldn't die.

Joab paced some more, then stopped. He softened his marching feet and stance.

"Get ready. Say goodbye to your loved ones if you can, then be blessed by the holy man. Spend time with the Creator, asking for protection and for the coming chosen one to be pleased.

Welcome to Swordfall."

Joab turned and walked away.

His brothers followed.

"We have an issue," Abishai warned.

"What?" Joab said as he kept walking.

"A giant was seen not far from there. By the pool of Gibeon."

"Excited Abi?" Asahel joked.

"Shut up," Abishai snapped.

Joab chuckled.

"The giant is of no importance to us today, unless it means to interfere with Swordfall. If so, we destroy it. And by we, I mean you Abishai."