it's absolutely a major plot point via Martin. And the way Weiss described, it sounds like it's going to be Stannis' downfall. Not sure you can pin this one on the show.


I actually was a bit disappointed with the arena scene myself. IIRC, Drogon arrives completely unannounced, while the pit fighters are still battling. There were no Sons of the Harpy causing chaos, it was Drogon wrecking shit. The way it was done on show was telegraphed, but I wish it had been more of a surprise.


That being said, I prescribe to the theory (probably incorrectly though) that Daenerys is eventually going to do a full heel turn. And I'm hoping this scene was to create the necessary misdirection to make that turn even more impactful. One can only hope...