Pellam, one of the former allies of Lot of Orkney, refuses to pay his tribute, and Arthur orders his treasurer to go and collect it. The old man informs the king that outside Camelot there are two unknown knights who challenge and overthrow all knights who pass by. Arthur orders the treasurer to avoid them since he is past the age for fighting.
Later on, the king disguises himself and rides out to meet these knights. They announce that their purpose is to discredit the prowess of all members of the Round Table. Arthur accepts their challenge and defeats them both with great ease.