Would Cersei Release Missandei If Daenerys Surrendered: An In-Depth Analysis

In the world of A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin and the television adaptation of Game of Thrones, the dynamics between Daenerys Targaryen and Cersei Lannister are profoundly intricate. A hypothetical scenario of Daenerys's surrender to Cersei raises the question of whether or not Missandei, who is a vital and dear ally to Daenerys, would be released. This article delves into the probable outcomes and motivations behind such a scenario, supported by the characters' established personalities and circumstances.

Daenerys's Surrender and Cersei's Potential Motivations

If Daenerys had surrendered to Cersei, it might have initially seemed that Missandei would be released. However, this scenario is heavily dependent on the context of the surrender and Cersei's motivations at that moment. Cersei, known for her strategic and often ruthless nature, might have seen the release of Missandei as a demonstration of her power and generosity (or at least an act of manipulation). Alternatively, she might have chosen to keep Missandei as a form of leverage or to retaliate against Daenerys.

Ultimately, while the release of Missandei could have been a potential outcome, it would depend on Cersei's assessment of how it would serve her interests at the time. Considering Cersei's character, it is highly plausible that she would opt for cruelty over mercy. If Daenerys had surrendered, Cersei might have chosen to sacrifice Missandei's life rather than risk any perceived threat or to demonstrate the depth of her power.

Daenerys's Hesitance and the Costs of Surrender

Given Daenerys's unwavering resolve and the deep distrust between her and Cersei, the notion of unconditional surrender is fraught with peril. Daenerys could never truly trust Cersei, and she would almost certainly fear that Cersei's followers might use her surrender to place Cersei back on the throne. The idea of sacrificing her own life for Missandei's sake is not beyond consideration, but it presents a heavy burden.

Moreover, even if Cersei were to release Missandei hypothetically, it is unlikely that she would grant a quick and merciful death. Missandei would likely face treatment similar to that of Septa Unella, Ellaria Sand, or Tyene Sand, or possibly the fate of Olenna Tyrell. Cersei might opt to subject Missandei to torture and probable rape before granting her the mercy of death. Witnessing such brutality could be a profound psychological toll, further fueling resentment.

The likelihood that Cersei would not spare the lives of Daenerys's soldiers, including Jon Snow and the Starks, is also high. The cost of liberating one prisoner is too steep, especially considering Cersei's track record of atrocities and the ease with which she had already abandoned her son. Missandei's life was forfeit from the moment of her capture, a knowledge shared by both Missandei and Grey Worm.

Concluding Thoughts

The scenario of Daenerys's surrender to Cersei and the potential release of Missandei is a complex one, rooted in the intricate balance of power, trust, and survival in the world of A Song of Ice and Fire. While the release of Missandei might have been a plausible outcome, it would depend heavily on Cersei's strategic calculations. For Daenerys and her allies, the risks far outweigh the potential benefits. Ultimately, the decision to surrender would pose a significant threat to both Daenerys and her allies, making it a perilous choice.

In the grand scheme of A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones, characters are often driven by their fears, desires, and past experiences. Both Daenerys and Cersei are no exceptions, making their interactions and decisions all the more compelling to analyze and discuss.