Game of Thrones: King of Harrenhal, starting with a blue hand stat panel

As dawn broke, a faint chill lingered along the banks of the Blackwater River.

Inside Arthur Hoan's yellow tent, Arthur and his companions welcomed Sir Barristan to the seat of honor.

That's the influence of the Great Knight, and the old connections still exist.

Robert Baratheon spared Ser Barristan not only because Robert truly possessed a heroic and domineering presence.

Robert also understood that the presence of a living Barristan only served to highlight his charm in turning an enemy into a friend.

In this respect, Robert is several levels above the cold-blooded, inhuman Tywin Lannister and Roose Bolton.

Robert won many admirers with his joy and wildness, while Eddard had little charisma, relying more on his fairness and kindness.

Tywin and Bolton are both considered to be people who practice terror-based rule.

Farmers only need to fear them, not love them.

Peaceful lands, quiet people—this is the way Dreadforts are ruled, much like Tywin Lannister.

Sir Barristan's swift arrival is also a sign of his care for his younger relatives.

The Royal Guard is an internal brotherhood where members help and support each other.

For example, Ser Barristan knew that Ser Oswell and the Sword of the Morning were too close to Rhaegar, and that Prince Lewin was keeping a mistress.

But these were all his brothers, and Sir Barristan chose to protect their honor.

Seeing the descendants of the former White Robe Brothers still feels very warm and familiar.

Arthur was wearing a black outfit with gold stripes and a pattern of black bats with outstretched wings.

Against the backdrop of his gorgeous clothes, and further accentuated by his handsome and sunny face, and his deep blue, almost purple eyes, he truly exuded the vibrant energy unique to young people.

The design was very familiar to Sir Barristan; it was the emblem of House Hearn, and Sir Oswell also had a bat emblem on his helmet.

By the time Sir Barristan reached that age, he had no interest in ordinary fame and fortune.

Only honor and seeing old friends would pique his interest.

Sir Barristan was a noble man who renounced his title and the girl who was to marry him to become a member of the Kingsguard.

Although the king killer voluntarily relinquished his right to the throne, he was more likely deceived by Cersei.

More importantly, Sir Barristan kept his oath, unlike the kingslayer who tied his head to a woman's belt and broke the vows.

Sir Barristan glanced over the furnishings in Arthur's tent; they were simple and unpretentious.

It's still quite satisfactory; it's a standard knight lord style.

If he were to see Renly's future furnishings, he would probably frown deeply.

Because Renly's tent was decorated like a five-star hotel; it wasn't for fighting, but for enjoying flirting.

Both Renly and Robert were obsessed with material things, and in some ways even more so with luxury.

Arthur introduced his companions to Sir Barristan, and the old knight greeted each of them with great friendliness.

Sir Barristan was very approachable, unlike some who looked down on commoners and younger generations, which was one of the reasons for his popularity.

"I was fortunate enough to be one of the Seven Guards alongside your great-uncle, Ser Oswell, Ser Geralt 'White Bull,' Prince Levin, and Ser Arthur, the Sword of the Morning. Your great-uncle was a truly valiant warrior, and you share his blood. He named you Arthur in honor of Ser Arthur Dayne," Ser Barristan said with a smile.

"It's more than just a tribute, Sir," Sir Lucas Dayne said proudly. "This boy is talented, no less so than my relative Arthur Dayne back in the day."

"What?" Sir Barristan Selmy was genuinely surprised.

How come after Dawnbreaker died in the Tower of Bliss, someone started saying that his talent was no less than Dawnbreaker's?

If someone else said that, Barristan would just think it's bullshit.

But considering that Sir Lucas himself was the swordsman of Starfall City and a top-notch instructor of Arthur Dayne, he couldn't possibly be that confused.

If what Sir Lucas said is true, then the River Ann family has truly struck gold.

"Is that really the case?" Sir Barristan emphasized again.

This is my junior, but I need to confirm it again.

Barristan understands better than anyone the importance of talent.

In addition to the corresponding knight support and training.

The criteria for determining a knight's excellence are physical attributes and innate talent.

Just like Barristan himself, whose family was originally known for farming, Barristan himself was also incredibly talented.

He was able to kill Matus Blackfire in battle and escape from Dusk Valley Town on the back of the Mad King.

"I'm quite certain, Sir. There are only a few essential qualities for a warrior: agility, strength, and stamina, all of which Arthur possesses. Moreover, Arthur's regenerative abilities are remarkable, and I'm certain his swordsmanship is among the most exceptional in my life. I believe you would agree once you see it," Sir Lucas Dayne said, emphasizing each word.

This is the blessing of "Blue Hand," making Arthur an unparalleled numerical monster.

Strength, speed, stamina, perception, and resilience—a formidable pentagon.

Arthur picked up the training blunt sword, which was heavier and wider than the blunt swords of boys his age, and he was also taller and stronger than his peers.

He strode quickly for dozens of steps in the tent, sword in hand, his swordsmanship consisting of thrusting, stabbing, parrying, slashing, and dragging.

Everyone moves in similar ways; the key is speed, proficiency, power, and intuition.

Arthur's movements were indeed as nimble and skillful as Sir Lucas had predicted.

Moreover, his steps were calm and composed, his lower body was very stable, and he did not reveal any weaknesses.

After that, Arthur sheathed his sword.

Over the years, Master Ba has seen far too many young knights and squires.

Thousands of people come and go, but few are true geniuses.

Ser Barristan himself had never seen anyone with the best swordsmanship, not Jaime the Kingslayer.

There's also Tuco, a Black boy from the Basilisk Islands whom he meets more than a decade later in the original story.

Now, Arthur's performance has directly impressed Barristan.

Sir Barristan nodded in agreement: "Truly a prodigy, the future of the tournament."

A great knight greatly enhances the reputation of a family.

For a great knight, honor lies in the battlefield and in tournament victories.

The Selmi family, for example, also benefited from the fame of Barristan.

The reason why House Tully has always been so incompetent is that he has little territory.

Another reason is that the trout family members are mediocre, with few outstanding individuals.

House Tyrell also had top-tier warriors like "Longthorn" Leo, a champion knight, which greatly enhanced the family's prestige.

"You will become an excellent knight. I was originally thinking about what gift to give you. Now I realize that nothing is more suitable than a fine sword."

"Then I'm very grateful to you," Arthur said with a smile.

He found Sir Barristan very kind, and there was no need to refuse such a gesture.

"Your talent is certainly remarkable, but if you don't mind this old man's nagging, I have another piece of advice to give you," Sir Barristan said solemnly.

"This is exactly what I'd like to hear; it would be my honor," Arthur replied.

Sir Barristan, a living legend of the court and tournaments, is unparalleled in his seniority.

Few can rival Baguastan in his knowledge of court history, war experience, and tournament experience.

"A knight must have a sense of honor. If a knight has no sense of honor, he is no different from an assassin. Also, Arthur, you must not be arrogant. A knight must always have a humble and cautious heart."

"I have witnessed hundreds of duels and far more wars than I would like to see. No matter how strong, swift, or precise a knight may be, he is still human and has his limits. He may win a hard-fought duel or lose a simple fight. A small puddle in the grass or a dirty meal at dinner may mean defeat. But a sudden change of wind may grant you victory," Ser Barristan said candidly.

"You are not the same person I know, the daring Barristan, the fearless Barristan," Veri whispered.

"But on the battlefield, one must not only be bold, but also careful," said Sir Barristan.

He was the same way; he was not only brave, but also wise.

For example, when rescuing the Mad King, Sir Barristan disguised himself as a beggar and carried out a perfect rescue.

Honor, but be careful.

This is something Sir Barristan held onto his entire life, just as he said.

There are no limits to chivalry, and no end to the way of chivalry.

"I've learned a lot, Sir," Arthur said seriously.

Arthur's stats are high; he can overcome any opponent with sheer force.

Having such a senior figure generously imparting his knowledge is indeed an invaluable treasure.

"Alright, Arthur." Ser Barristan patted Arthur on the shoulder. "If you have any questions about knightly training in the future, you can write to me or come to discuss them. My strength is waning, but my experience remains."

"That's great!" Arthur said happily.

A trip to King's Landing established a connection with Ser Barristan.

He also received guidance from a top-notch expert, which was truly excellent.

Sir Barristan's physical abilities were gradually declining, but his combat experience and skills remained those of a seasoned veteran.