The Green Knight’s challenge included a brave man beheading the Knight. An essential condition of this challenge is that whoever chooses to strike the Knight with his own ax must be able to receive the same action in a year and a day. “Then I shall stand up to his stroke…”: the Knight’s request called for any man in the hall willing to showcase his bravery. Sir Gawain accepted the challenge as no other person, but King Arthur volunteered to behead the Knight.
The King’s nephew Gawain acknowledged the main principles of the Knight’s game, and the deal was officially initiated. Without further hesitation, the Knight “stood…graciously on the ground…with head slanting…to expose the flesh.” Sir Gawain successfully beheaded the man, blood splattering everywhere. Quite surprisingly, the Green Knight held up his own head as it reminded Sir Gawain of the arranged agreement between them.
The green horse of the Knight showcased “flint-struck fire…from the hooves”, presumably emphasizing the speed with which the character took off. Finally, King Arthur and his nephew joyfully return to their celebrations once the Green Knight is gone.