Navigating Westeros: Daenerys' Journey from Asshai to the Iron Throne

Introduction to Daenerys Targaryen's Quest

Daenerys Targaryen, the Mother of Dragons and the last of the Targaryen line, has been on a quest to reclaim the Iron Throne. If she were to travel from her current location in Asshai and proceed eastward, would she eventually find her way to Westeros? The answer lies in the world's geography, which is both complex and intriguing.

The Geographic Barrier Between Asshai and Westeros

Asshai, the mysterious and ancient city located at the far east of the continent of Essos, serves as a significant barrier for Daenerys. The narrative, set in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, suggests that continuing east from Asshai would lead one further away from Westeros, not closer to it. Given the vast expanse of Essos and the sacharan nature of the world being nearly spherical, Daenerys would need to travel west across Essos and then across the Narrow Sea.

Theoretical Possibilities and Practical Realities

In theory, if Daenerys were to travel east, she could eventually reach Westeros due to the world being spherical. Analogous to Christopher Columbus's exploration, theoretically, it would be possible, though not practically feasible. Columbus' voyage was hindered by the discovery of a new continent (the Americas) and an ocean (the Atlantic), which were unanticipated. Similarly, Daenerys would face insurmountable challenges if she tried to reach Westeros by traveling east from Asshai. Even the journey to Asshai itself is substantial, considering its location at the southern and eastern extremities of Essos.

Quaithe's Prophecy and the Quest for the Throne

However, there is further complexity introduced by Quaithe, a mysterious figure who often confounds Daenerys with conflicting advice. The prophecy from Quaithe, which translates to "To reach the west you must go east," further perplexes the journey. This prophecy could be interpreted in multiple ways. It could mean that Daenerys must undertake a journey eastward to gain new knowledge, experience, or resources that will ultimately lead her to the west. The phrase also suggests a metaphorical journey, where returning or reversing one's course (going back) is necessary to achieve the ultimate goal (touching the light, or gaining the Iron Throne). Given the enigmatic nature of prophecies, the true meaning remains uncertain.

Possible Paths to the Iron Throne

For Daenerys, the most plausible path remains traveling westward across Essos and then across the Narrow Sea to reach Westeros. However, if there are undiscovered lands or opportunities between Asshai and Westeros, these could prove advantageous in her quest. The world's spherical nature and the possibility of uncharted territories or realms could offer new routes or conditions that might aid Daenerys in her epiphany.

Conclusion

Whether Daenerys will eventually reach Westeros directly from Asshai remains a mystery. The geography, the complexity of Quaithe's prophecy, and the enigmatic nature of Westeros itself keep the path to the Iron Throne open to interpretation and new adventures. For now, Daenerys' journey continues, guided by her resolve and the uncertainties of her path.