15 Times S**t Got Real In Game Of Thrones
8. Barristan's 'Retirement'
"Even now I could cut through the five of you like carving a cake!"
What started as a by-the-numbers scene of announcements and plot exposition took a strangely welcome intense turn. As the Lannisters set about consolidating their power and paying their debts as it were, Ser Barristan Selmy, a sworn knight of the Kingsguard and legendary warrior is called forward to hear that he is being unceremoniously retired.
Cersei announcing this herself is a nice touch that allows for some intelligent and biting back and forth between the two. Barristan begs to retain an honour that only death should release him from. Relishing the opportunity for cruelty, Cersei and Joffrey point out the kings he failed.
Hearing that the Kingslayer will replace him is transparent and hypocritical, but what pushes him over the edge is Littlefinger's 'naked knight' joke. With the hall openly laughing at him, he silences all when he draws his sword.
The speed with which the man went from subject of ridicule to dangerous threat was a masterful illustration of the man's skill and reputation. Even The Hound and Joffrey are concerned. His remark about how easy it would be to get past his former sworn brothers rings true in their reactions.
Diffusing the situation himself, he turns the shame back around on the Lannisters and storms out holding the higher ground and the last word.