The Command of Lannister Forces and Cersei's Small Council

During Daenerys Targaryen's planned attack on King's Landing, it was Jaime Lannister who eventually led the Lannister forces. However, this position changed as the narrative progressed, and the command structure became clearer as Cersei Lannister assumed more control. The members of Cersei’s small council included Qyburn, Euron Greyjoy, Randyll Tarly, and Bronn. However, as the story reached its climax, the traditional small council was less emphasized, and Cersei operated more independently.

Who Led the Lannister Army for Cersei During Daenerys's Planning?

When Daenerys was planning her attack, Jaime Lannister ultimately took the lead in commanding the Lannister forces. However, in the initial stages of the story, the military leadership was more complex. Given the hierarchical structure of military organization, it's reasonable to assume that a second-in-command would hold significant influence in the absence of Jaime.

It is important to note that Harry Strickland was not actually in charge of the Lannister Army. He served as the commander of the Golden Company, a mercenary force, and was responsible for defending King's Landing. The Lannister Army was under the command of the highest-ranking Lannister officer who remained loyal to Cersei.

Cersei’s Small Council

Cersei Lannister: The Queen herself, making all final decisions. Euron Greyjoy: Leader of the Iron Islands and an ally to Cersei. Randyll Tarly: Lord of Horn Hill and commander in the Lannister army. Bronn: Mercenary who served at the Queen's discretion.

In the later stages of the series, Cersei took control of the small council, making most of the decisions herself. She would seek no advice from anyone and valued Qyburn above all others. This decision-making style led to disastrous outcomes for the Lannister forces.

Golden Company and the Lannister Troops

The arrival of the Golden Company in Blackwater Bay saw a significant shift in the defense strategies of King's Landing. Harry Strickland, a key figure in the Golden Company, would have been placed in charge of the defense with a focus on the disposition of the Lannister troops. Despite the eventual defeat of the Golden Company, the surviving war elephants played a crucial role in Cersei's desperate defense efforts.

As the story of A Song of Ice and Fire reaches its final moments, it is clear that Cersei, despite her personal tragedies, held on to the hope of her elephants surviving the conflict. This symbol of hope for Cersei encapsulates her emotional state as the story draws to a close.

Conclusion

The command of Lannister forces and Cersei's small council were key elements of the narrative in the final seasons of the show. While Jaime Lannister was initially the commander, the story took a turn as Cersei assumed more control, often making decisions on her own without consulting others. The role of Harry Strickland and the entry of the Golden Company added layers of complexity to the command structure, culminating in the dramatic final moments of the series.