The room was split.

All wanted to be a part of the King's Elite force of giant killers.

But a suicide rush at Elah?

Joab would not be swayed.

He explained they would break in two groups.

Even with their small numbers, he thought it would be enough.

Abner wondered if it was just Joab getting back at everyone for what happened to Asahel.

But, there was brilliance in it too.

"I have never led any of you astray," Joab's voice bellowed. "And you, who were my enemies, know how I fought and planned. You want to rid our land of giants? And protect our king? This is how you do it. We could even go to the Unknown if need be."

More voices whispered.

"Is anyone not aware of what the Unknown City is?" Abner asked.

A few hands rose.

"You know of it. We just spoke of it. It was the giant's largest city. We destroyed it, with their help. After the death of Jalut and the Giant Wars, they went mad as well. Fought amongst themselves. But some still reside there. And they still meet there. And their human followers worship them there," Abner quietly explained. "It is called the Unknown because we cannot even say it in our tongue. Too evil. Too vile. It doesn't translate."

Beniah cleared his throat.

"There is something I have not told anyone," Beniah started. "The governor. When I found him, the convoy massacre...his armor was gone. I asked those who know such things...the giants would often steal the armor of kings and leaders and hang it in blasphemy. In the Unknown."

Silence.

"We strike twice," Joab finally declared. "Once, to the Unknown. We will retrieve the armor and bury it with the governor. Then attack Elah."

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"It's good," Abner declared. "A trial run."

The elite warriors started to cheer and stomp and readied their plans.

Beniah walked out of the meeting, ready for war.

Abner stopped him on a small bridge, overlooking a secret fountain on the castle.

"I need a minute," Abner started.

Beniah nodded.

"What's wrong?"

"You. And the woman. The king's woman," Abner said coldy.

Beniah swallowed. But nodded.

"What about it?"

"How do you know her?"

"I've known her my whole life. She's from my village."

"Do you have feelings for her?"

"I always have. I have never acted towards my feelings since she has been in the king's court. And if anyone says different, it is a lie."

Abner nodded.

"The woman herself admitted it. No wrongdoing of yours," Abner turned towards the fountain.

"Is she in harm?"

"No. Not yet. She will be released of her duties and will be yours on one condition."

Beniah couldn't help but grin, but then went back to his solemn face.

"What is it?"

"Bring the king and I the head of Gath, the giant. The oldest of all the giants."

Beniah's feet sunk underneath him, but he tried not to show it.

"It will be done. Let me see her."

Adira was not in a cell. Frankly, most would love to be trapped in such an environment.

But it was her prison.

She had a few things and a small fire. Hid away in a small closet that was lost somewhere in the city like castle.

But like a princess waiting for the squire, she sat, upset.

Suddenly, the large door was opened.

Adira stood, still in her royal gowns.

Beniah walked in with a guard.

She rushed and hugged him.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry," she said.

"Don't be. I will set you free."