‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ episode 2 recap: Here’s what Dunk did as he entered Ashford

‘Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ episode 2 brings the tournament at Ashford Meadow to life as the Targaryens arrive. Ser Duncan, known as Dunk, faces his greatest challenge yet. After the death of his mentor Ser Arlan, Dunk seeks to prove his knighthood and compete among nobles. His young squire-egg remains by his side, offering quiet support through the uncertainty.Princes Baelor and Maekar enter with great ceremony. Baelor serves as heir to King Daeron II and Hand of the King, while Maekar follows in the line of succession. Dunk encounters Maekar’s son Aerion, whose arrogance reminds many of past cruel royals. Dunk asks knights to confirm his status, but finds no recognition of Ser Arlan. He overhears concern in Lord Ashford’s hall about Maekar’s missing sons, Daeron and Aegon.Baelor recalls Ser Arlan as an honorable man who never disgraced himself, despite having no victories. To verify Dunk’s claim, Baelor asks about Arlan’s defeat of the Grey Lion. Dunk remembers the name-Ser Damon Lannister, Lord of Casterly Rock. Pleased, Baelor approves Dunk’s entry into the tournament.Baelor advises Dunk to create his own sigil, as only Arlan’s kin may use the old one. Dunk visits Tanselle, the Dornish artist from the puppet show. With Egg’s input, they design a shield with a sunset field, an elm tree, and a shooting star above it. Tanselle agrees to paint it, despite Dunk’s clumsy attempt at conversation.Unable to pay for proper armor, Dunk trades Arlan’s gear and sells his horse, Sweetfoot, to the armorer Steely Pate. The sacrifice weighs on him, yet strengthens his purpose. Dunk and Egg later watch the early jousts and join a game with Ser Lyonel Baratheon, feeling the festival’s energyThe episode reflects on Ser Arlan’s modest life through memories. Dunk loved him as a father, but recognized Arlan fell short of greatness. Stream it now on HBO.