"As we all know, the fighting has lasted for far too long. Many have fallen on both sides. The gods do not desire endless bloodshed and misery, and I as the king, as the enactor of their will, agree."
King Saul looked down at his followers, his stare unwavering, then towards Goliath.
"Philistines! I extend a challenge! For the next forty days, morning and evening, we will send out champions. We will battle one at a time. We will fight one at a time. Any weapon may be used. Do you agree to these conditions!?"
His voice carried over to the enemy. The twenty metres of distance meant nothing, as if the gods were wanting the Philistines to listen.
The Philistines didn't have to think twice before accepting the invitation to battle. They were on enemy territory: instinctively, they recognized their disadvantage.
"Agreed!" Goliath shouted back. He barked out an order to his men. "Send the first soldier out for this evening's battle! Send out Philo!"
