‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Season 1, Episode 4 is Peak ‘Game of Thrones’

Warning: Includes SPOILERS for A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Season 1, Episode 4!

The fourth episode of “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,” titled “Seven,” was released early due to the Super Bowl, and fans of “Game of Thrones” were thrilled. This prequel series, set about halfway between the third season of “House of the Dragon” and the start of the first season of “Game of Thrones,” has been widely seen as a potential revival for the franchise. With expansion no longer feasible, many believe this series represents the only way forward.

While this series doesn’t feature dragons or massive battles like some other fantasy shows, it more than makes up for it with compelling characters and emotional depth. “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” picks up after Dunk’s fight with the unpleasant Prince Aerion, and focuses on the preparations for a Trial by Seven – essentially, Dunk needs to gather a team to face a powerful opponent. The episode takes an unexpected turn when Prince Baelor Targaryen decides to join Dunk’s side, meaning he’ll be fighting against his own family.

“Seven” is the Best ‘Game of Thrones’ Episode Since “The Winds of Winter”


HBO

If you’ve stuck with A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms through its deliberate, slowly unfolding episodes—even without an immediately shocking moment like a character being thrown from a window (as showrunner Ira Parker put it)—you’re about to be rewarded. The final minutes of the episode “Seven” are beautifully timed, with the iconic Game of Thrones theme song starting as Prince Baelor joins forces with Dunk. Parker hinted at the theme earlier in the first episode, but saved the full, powerful version for this perfect moment, letting its energy and nostalgic feel build as viewers cheer for the unlikely heroes.

Sir Duncan powerfully delivers the famous line, staying true to George R.R. Martin’s vision. Combined with Baelor’s honorable decision, stunning Targaryen armor, and the blend of realism and romance that defines the world of Game of Thrones, everything – including the criticisms of Season 8 and House of the Dragon – feels less important. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms has breathed new life into the franchise.

The Trial by Seven and the Teams


HBO

Trial of Seven is a ritual brought to Westeros by the Faith of the Seven and the Andals. It’s less common than a traditional one-on-one Trial by Combat. Unlike the usual format, this involves a battle between two teams of seven fighters each. Dunk’s team was largely assembled by Egg, and included knights like Ser Lyonel Baratheon and Ser Raymun Fossoway, who earned his knighthood right before the fight. Aerion’s team consisted of Targaryens, members of the Kingsguard, and the turncoat, Ser Steffon Fossoway. The complete list of fighters for both sides is shown below.

Ser Duncan the Tall Prince Aerion Targaryen
Ser Lyonel Baratheon Prince Maekar Targaryen
Prince Baelor “Breakspear” Targaryen Prince Daeron Targaryen
Ser Raymun Fossoway Ser Steffon Fossoway
Ser Humfrey Beesbury Ser Roland Crakehall
Ser Humfrey Hardyng Ser Willem Wylde
Ser Robyn Rhysling Ser Donnel of Duskendale

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2026-02-07 03:35