SPOILER ALERT: This article contains spoilers for the Season 1 finale of “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,” now streaming on HBO Max.
Now that the trial of the seven has concluded, the aftermath reveals Dunk’s (Peter Claffey) team emerging victorious in a brutal battle against Aerion Targaryen’s (Finn Bennet) squad. Despite the win, Dunk is left feeling remorseful after Baelor Targaryen (Bertie Carvel), an heir to the Iron Throne and his ally, dies due to a tragic blow to the head inflicted by Baelor’s own brother Maekar (Sam Spruell).
Following the funeral of Baelor, Maekar approaches Dunk, requesting him to serve by his side and take his son Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell) as his squire. However, Dunk, weary of royal intrigue, initially declines. After receiving a visit from the ghost of his mentor Ser Arlan of Pennytree (Danny Webb), Dunk reconsiders and decides to take Egg to steer him clear of his Targaryen lineage. Ignoring Maekar’s wishes, Dunk and Egg set off together as knight and squire, with Dunk honoring Ser Arlan by nailing a penny to a tree before their departure, while Arlan’s spirit follows them briefly.
On their adventure, Dunk and Egg contemplate heading to Dorne, the sun-baked, southern region of Westeros. The concluding scene hints at Maekar’s search for Egg as his wagons roll away, suggesting potential Targaryen connections in the upcoming season.
In an interview with Variety, co-creator and showrunner Ira Parker disclosed that Season 2 will adapt George R.R. Martin’s second “Dunk and Egg” novella, “The Mystery Knight.” He also discussed the reasoning behind rejecting one of the original titles for the show.
What inspired the “A Knight of the Nine Kingdoms” title?
The choice was meant to inject a lighter tone into the narrative. It reflects the idea that, even amid dire circumstances, humor can coexist with tragedy, maintaining a balance similar to real life.
How did the title of the show evolve from “The Tales of Dunk and Egg”?
Initially, George R.R. Martin warned against using “Dunk & Egg,” claiming it sounded too much like a sitcom. Although a late suggestion arose to use that title, it was ultimately decided to use “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,” hinting at a more adventurous narrative.
Will Dunk and Egg’s journey lead them to Dorne in Season 2?
Yes, their travels will include a visit to Dorne. Details will unfold in Season 2, and while Season 1 adapted “The Hedge Knight,” Season 2 will draw from “The Sworn Sword.”
