The Strategic Flaws in Choosing Covert Assassination

In analyzing the compelling narrative of A Song of Ice and Fire, Daenerys Targaryen's failure to use covert tactics against Cersei Lannister is a critical point of discussion. This strategic omission reflects a fundamental lack of depth in Daenerys's character development and the reliance on plot convenience rather than tactical brilliance.

Daenerys's Ego Overruled Strategic Thinking

One of the primary reasons for Daenerys's failure to utilize covert tactics lies in her inflated ego. Her belief that people were celebrating her return and her misplaced trust in her people led to a significant lack of strategic thinking. In the heat of the moment, she felt betrayed and ill-treated, mirroring her father's similar fate. Her decision-making process was clouded by emotional turmoil, leading her to overlook the tactical advantages of a stealth operation.

The Limitations of Daenerys's Characters

Two key figures often cited as potential candidates for a covert assassination attempt are Jorah Mormont and Daario Naharis. However, both characters are inherently flawed and ill-suited for such a mission.

Jorah Mormont's Incompetence as an Assassin

Jorah is a dishonorable knight with battlefield experience but no covert killing skills. His reputation and fighting style are ill-suited for the shadows and silence required for a successful assassination. Direct combat is his forte, and his lack of stealth training would make him an easy target for Cersei's guards.

Daario Naharis's Showy Tendencies and Arrogance

Daario Naharis, though a skilled mercenary, brings his own set of liabilities. His flashy style and arrogance would likely compromise the stealth factor necessary for a covert operation. In the moment of truth, his loud and brash personality would betray him, rendering the attempt futile.

Security Precautions Against Intrusion

In the physical and political landscape of King's Landing, Cersei Lannister was incredibly well-protected. Effective security measures were in place to ensure her safety. Even a tiny window of opportunity would have been swiftly sealed. For instance, a few Unsullied soldiers attempting to enter the city would surely have been detected long before reaching Cersei, as Unsullied are known for their training and discipline.

The standard precautions taken for a ruler's protection, combined with the formidable presence of House Lannister's army and the Mountain's guardians, would have made any attempt to sneak in and assassinate Cersei a near impossibility.

Trust and Preparation

Daenerys likely underestimated the complexity and the sheer difficulty of an assassination attempt, both in terms of security and practicality. Trust in her people's abilities and preparation for their failure to support her further clouded her judgment. Moreover, Frankengregor, the black market assassin working against Daenerys, may have unknowingly anticipated these security measures, making any attempt even riskier and less likely to succeed.

In conclusion, while a covert assassination attempt by Jorah or Daario could have theoretically left King's Landing in a worse state, the strategic and practical challenges posed by their lack of covert skills and the heightened security around Cersei made such an operation a non-starter. Daenerys's ego and the oversight in her character's ability to think tactically are key reasons for this strategic misstep in the narrative.