7 Champions of Ser Duncan the Tall in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Explained
Ser Duncan
Ser Duncan the Tall stands at the center of the Trial of Seven after striking Prince Aerion to defend Tanselle. Dunk has little real battlefield experience, yet years of tourneys and rough living have taught him how to handle himself in a fight. Unlike most knights present, he fights not for glory or politics but to prove he acted honorably. Every man on the field measures himself against him, especially Aerion, whose pride demands punishment. The trial becomes a test of whether a hedge knight’s sense of justice can stand against royal power and tradition.
Ser Lyonel Baratheon
Ser Lyonel Baratheon, the Laughing Storm, is among the first knights to stand beside Dunk in the Trial of Seven. Their earlier bonding makes his support expected, yet Lyonel admits he also enjoys the chance to strike at Kingsguard knights in a legendary fight. He charges into battle with enthusiasm and confidence, giving Dunk a powerful ally from the very start.
Ser Robyn Rhysling
Ser Robyn Rhysling, the strange one-eyed knight Egg met earlier, sides with Dunk for religious reasons rather than friendship. He considers Prince Aerion’s behavior offensive to the gods and refuses to support it even while loyal to the crown. That belief pushes him into the trial. Rhysling speaks about himself in the third person and unsettles those around him, yet his conviction never wavers.
Ser Humfrey Hardyng
Ser Humfrey Hardyng joins Dunk despite carrying a serious injury from an earlier joust. Aerion killed his horse and left him hurt, yet Hardyng refuses to stay out of the trial. If he can sit a saddle, he insists he can fight, and that determination earns Dunk’s respect. His participation turns the battle personal as well as honorable. Hardyng seeks justice as much as victory.
Ser Raymun Fossoway
Raymun Fossoway begins as only a squire and cannot fight for Dunk at first. Everything changes after his cousin betrays Dunk for promised lands. Lyonel knights Raymun on the spot, giving him a chance to prove his character. He adopts a green apple sigil to separate himself from his cousin’s red one and rides into battle determined to earn the title honestly. The trial becomes his first true test as a knight.
Ser Humfrey Beesbury
Ser Humfrey Beesbury rides out quietly to support Dunk even though he never delivers a speech or explanation. Earlier scenes show him celebrating with Lyonel Baratheon, hinting at loyalty to the Storm Lord and trust in Dunk’s cause. His actions speak clearly enough. He joins the line and fights, proving belief does not always require grand words. The knight represents those who stand for fairness without seeking attention.
Prince Baelor Targaryen
Prince Baelor Targaryen arrives when Dunk seems to have no final champion, instantly changing the entire trial. The heir to the Iron Throne chooses justice over family loyalty and fights on Dunk’s side despite angering Prince Maekar. Known as Breakspear for his famous tournament victory, Baelor is an experienced and respected warrior, and his presence raises the stakes far beyond a normal dispute.

