Difference between revisions of "Mormont's raven"

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{{Infobox character
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{{Infobox animal character
| Character_name = [[Image:Minigdn.png|50px|left]] '''Mormont's raven''' [[Image:Minigdn.png|50px|right]]
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| Character_name = Mormont's raven
| image          = [[File:Jeor Mormont by reneaigner.jpg|250px]]
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| image          = [[File:Sandara Tang Old Bear's Raven.jpg|350px]]
| image_caption  = [[Jeor Mormont]] and Mormont's raven by Rene Aigner©
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| image_caption  = [[Jeor Mormont]]'s raven - by Sandara Tang © FFG
| Alias     =
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| Alias         =
 
| Title          =
 
| Title          =
| Allegiance    = [[Night's Watch]]
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| Owner          = [[Jeor Mormont]]<br>[[Jon Snow]]
| Race          = [[Raven]]
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| Species        = [[Raven]]
| Culture        =
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| Place_of_Birth =
| Spouse        =
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| Date_of_Birth  =
| Place_of_Birth =  
 
| Date_of_Birth  =  
 
 
| Place_of_Death =
 
| Place_of_Death =
 
| Date_of_Death  =
 
| Date_of_Death  =
| Books          = [[A Game of Thrones]] (Appears)<br>[[A Clash of Kings]] (Appears)<br>[[A Storm of Swords]] (Appears)<br>[[A Feast for Crows]] (Appears)<br>[[A Dance with Dragons]] (Appears)
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| Books          = ''[[A Game of Thrones]]'' (appears)<br>''[[A Clash of Kings]]'' (appears)<br>''[[A Storm of Swords]]'' (appears)<br>''[[A Feast for Crows]]'' (appears)<br>''[[A Dance with Dragons]]'' (appears)
| coat-of-arms  =
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| Played_by     =
| Played by     =
 
 
| TV_series      =  
 
| TV_series      =  
 
}}
 
}}
 
   
 
   
'''Mormont's raven''' is a pet [[raven]] of [[Jeor Mormont]], [[Lord Commander of the Night's Watch]]. He can speak, usually repeating a one syllable word twice. Often it is a word just said by one of the people around, however it is sometimes extremely appropriate.  
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'''Mormont's raven''' is a pet [[raven]] of [[Jeor Mormont]], [[Lord Commander of the Night's Watch]]. He can speak, usually repeating a one syllable word twice. Typically it is a word just said by one of the people around, but it is often uncannily appropriate.
  
==Appearance and traits==
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==Appearance and Character==
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{{See also|:Category:Images of Mormont's raven|l1=Images of Mormont's raven}}
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Mormont's raven has beady black eyes{{Ref|AGOT|21}} and big black wings.{{Ref|aCoK|6}} [[Jon Snow]] describes it as an "old raven", though its exact age remains unknown.{{Ref|AGOT|60}}<ref group="N" name=age>The lifespan of the [[w:Common Raven|Common Raven]] depends on its living conditions. In the wild, the average raven lives for 10 to 15 years. Some survive longer, dying between the 20th and 23rd year of their lives. In captivity, a raven can survive longer still. A number of individual ravens of the [[w:Tower of London|Tower of London]] managed to reach or surpass the 40th year of their lives.</ref> At some point it is described as a "huge raven".{{Ref|ASOS|79}} It seems to be rather large for its species.{{Ref|ADWD|3}}
  
Mormont's raven has beady black eyes and {{Ref|aGoT|21}} and big black wings. {{Ref|aCoK|6}} [[Jon Snow]] describes it as an "old raven", though its exact age remains unknown. {{Ref|aGoT|60}} <ref> The lifespan of the [[w:Common Raven|Common Raven]] depends on its living conditions. In the wild, the average raven lives for 10 to 15 years. Some survive longer, dying between the 20th and 23rd year of their lives. In captivity, a raven can survive longer still. A number of individual ravens of the Tower of London managed to reach or surpass the 40th year of their lives. </ref> At some point it is described as a "huge raven". {{Ref|aSoS|79}} It seems to be rather large for its species. {{Ref|aDwD|3}}
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This raven is particularly fond of fruit and corn, eating kernels out of Jeor's hand. Maester [[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon]] considers this a rather rare trait, since most ravens prefer meat.{{Ref|AGOT|60}} The raven is usually scruffy in appearance. Jon Snow considers it bold and fearless. He also considers it clever, too clever.{{Ref|ADWD|3}}
 
 
This raven is particularly fond of fruit and "corn" ([[w:Cereal|grain]]). [[Maester Aemon]] considers this a rather rare trait, since most ravens prefer meat. {{Ref|aGoT|60}} The raven is typically scruffy in appearance. Jon Snow considers it bold and fearless. He also considers it clever, too clever. {{Ref|aDwD|3}}
 
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
Mormont's raven served as the companion of [[Jeor Mormont]] for "long years". {{Ref|aDwD|3}}
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[[File:Jose Manzanedo Jeor Mormont.jpg|right|350px|thumb|[[Jeor Mormont]] with his raven, by Antonio José Manzanedo © FFG]]
 
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The [[raven]] has served as the companion of [[Jeor Mormont]] for "long years".{{Ref|ADWD|3}}
==Recent Events ==
 
  
=== A Game of Thrones ===
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==Recent Events==
At [[Castle Black]], [[Alliser Thorne]] orders recent recruit [[Jon Snow]] to report to [[Lord Commander of the Night's Watch|Lord Commander]] [[Jeor Mormont]]. Jon first notices Mormont's raven, perched on the arm of Jeor. Mormont gives Jon a letter that has arrived from Winterfell for him. The message was written by [[Robb Stark]], informing Jon that [[Bran Stark]] has recovered from a coma. Though the boy is crippled, Jon is happy that his brother is going to live. The raven flies to the shoulder of Jeor, while repeating the last word of Jon: ''Live!'' {{Ref|aGoT|19}}
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===''A Game of Thrones''===
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[[File:Jeor_Mormont.jpg|right|350px|thumb|[[Jeor Mormont]] with his raven, by Amok ©]]
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At [[Castle Black]], [[Alliser Thorne]] orders recent recruit [[Jon Snow]] to report to [[Jeor Mormont]], [[Lord Commander of the Night's Watch]]. Jon first notices the raven perched on the arm of Jeor. The Lord Commander gives Jon a letter that has arrived from [[Winterfell]] for him. The message was written by [[Robb Stark]], informing Jon that [[Bran Stark]] has recovered from a coma. Though the boy is crippled, Jon is happy that his brother is going to live. The raven flies to the shoulder of Jeor, while repeating the last word of Jon: ''Live!''{{Ref|AGOT|19}}
  
During a meal, Alliser Thorne and visitor [[Tyrion Lannister]] insult each other. Bystanders laugh, while the raven caws loudly from above a window, repeating the last word of Tyrion: ''Duel!'' {{Ref|aGoT|21}} Tyrion finds the bird annoying and privately considers throttling it. He decides against it, not wanting to insult Jeor. {{Ref|aGoT|21}}
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During a meal, Alliser and [[Tyrion Lannister]] insult each other. Bystanders laugh, while the raven caws loudly from above a window, repeating the last word of Tyrion: ''Duel!''{{Ref|AGOT|21}} Tyrion finds the bird annoying and privately considers throttling it. He decides against it, not wanting to insult Jeor.{{Ref|AGOT|21}}
  
Later, Jon is forced to fight a [[wight]]. Jon improvises and uses Jeor's oil lamp to start a fire. The raven starts cawing ''Burn'', seemingly on its own initiative. {{Ref|aGoT|52}}
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Later, Jon is forced to fight the [[wight]] of [[Othor]]. Jon improvises and uses Jeor's oil lamp to start a fire. The raven starts cawing ''Burn'', seemingly on its own initiative.{{Ref|AGOT|52}}
  
After Jon attempts to desert to avenge his late father, Jeor asks whether Jon finds the war of Robb Stark to be more important that their own war. The ongoing wars mentioned are the [[War of the Five Kings]] and the [[Conflict Beyond the Wall]]. The raven flaps its wings and starts repeating: ''War''. Jon finds the words to be song-like. Jeor suggests that Eddard Stark himself sent Jon to the [[Wall]], though nobody truly knows why. The raven repeats the question: ''Why?''{{Ref|aGoT|70}}
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After Jon attempts to desert to avenge his late father, Lord [[Eddard Stark]], Jeor asks whether Jon finds the [[War of the Five Kings|war of Robb Stark]] to be more important than [[Conflict Beyond the Wall|their own war]]. The raven flaps its wings and starts repeating: ''War''. Jon finds the words to be song-like. Jeor suggests that Eddard himself sent Jon to the [[Wall]], though nobody truly knows why. The raven repeats the question: ''Why?''{{Ref|AGOT|70}}
  
=== A Clash of Kings ===
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===''A Clash of Kings''===
[[File:JeorMormontbyWouterBruneel.jpg|left|240px|thumb|[[Jeor Mormont]] with his raven by [http://www.wbruneel.com/IllustrationPortfolio.html Wouter Bruneel].]]
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Lord Commander Mormont brings his raven with him while commanding the [[great ranging]]. It continues to repeat various words of those having conversations with Jeor.{{Ref|ACOK|43}}
 
Lord Commander Mormont brings his raven with him while commanding [[The Great Ranging]]. It continues to repeat various words of those having conversations with Mormont.{{Ref|aCoK|43}}
 
  
=== A Storm of Swords ===
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===''A Storm of Swords''===
[[File:Jeor Mormont.jpg|thumb|300px|[[Jeor Mormont]] feeding his raven by Amoka]]
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[[Chett]] and others on the ranging plan to mutiny and murder Jeor. [[Small Paul]] is convinced to assist once he is told he can have Mormont's raven afterwards.{{ref|ASOS|0}}
When the Watch first settled in the [[Fist of the First Men]] (see above), [[Jeor Mormont]] had certain orders for [[Samwell Tarly]], the man responsible for the messenger ravens. In case of an attack, Samwell would have to send out messages to [[Castle Black]] and the [[Shadow Tower]]. Alerting the rest of the Watch. If Samwell fails on his mission, Jeor threatens to hunt the younger man through all seven hells. Making him damn sorry for his failure. Mormont's raven starts repeating one word of the threat: ''Sorry''. {{Ref|aSoS|18}}
 
  
In the Fist of the First Men, a number of disgruntled members of the [[Night's Watch]] conspire against [[Jeor Mormont]]. Among them is [[Paul|Small Paul]], who seems more concerned over the fate of Mormont's raven. He worries that when they kill Jeor, the raven will have nobody to feed it. [[Chett]] suggests killing the raven along with its master. Paul insists that he does not want to hurt the raven. He worries, however, wether this talking bird will reveal the deeds to others. Chett answers that Mormont's raven would not need to inform anyone. The slit throat of Jeor and a corpse lying in a pool of blood, would provide sufficient information of what happened. {{Ref|aSoS|Prologue}} Paul has a new idea about the raven. He plans to claim it as his own pet. He really likes Mormont's raven. [[Lark]] suggests that they could always eat the raven, if they run out of supplies. Paul warns his ally to stay away from "his" raven. {{Ref|aSoS|Prologue}}
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The raven survives the [[fight at the Fist]] and accompanies his master to [[Craster's Keep]].{{ref|ASOS|33}} After Jeor is murdered during the [[Mutiny at Craster's Keep|mutiny]], the raven asks [[Samwell Tarly]] for corn. It seems to encourage Sam to leave quickly with [[Gilly]] to escape the approaching [[Others]] and their [[wight]]s, but is not seen after Sam leaves Craster's Keep.{{ref|ASOS|33}}
  
Jeor calls off the Watch's search for a [[w:Bear|Bear]]. They only founds the tracks of the bear and not the animal itself. Jeor is dissappointed, feeling that his troops could use some fresh meat. The raven perches on his shoulder and repeats his last word: ''Meat''. {{Ref|aSoS|Prologue}} Paul continues to obsess about Mormont's raven. He is asking around for seed to feed the raven. Lark informs Chett about the subject. Chett points out that the raven can feed on corpses. Lark suggests killing Paul and feeding his corpse to the raven. Chett privately considers that they can instead kill Lark and use him to feed the raven. Certain that Paul is more useful than Lark. {{Ref|aSoS|Prologue}}
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Later, at Castle Black, the elections for the position of [[Lord Commander of the Night's Watch]] are ongoing. No candidate has enough votes to secure election, and a new vote is taken. A large kettle, used as the ballot box, is brought to the hall's table by Samwell and [[Clydas]]. When Clydas takes off the lid of the kettle, a raven bursts out from inside. It then flies three times around the room finally it landing on the table, next to the place where [[Jon Snow]] is seated. It starts repeating the name: ''Snow''. It then spreads its wings and flies to Jon, perching on his shoulder.{{Ref|ASOS|79}}
  
After sunset, Jeor calls for the men to assemble at the central fire of the camp. The raven perches on his shoulder, preening its feathers. Jeor starts speaking to the assembled troops, calling them "Men of the Night's Watch". The raven starts screaming one of his words: ''Men''. Jeor informs his troops that [[Mance Rayder]] and his host are on the march, following the course of the [[Milkwater]]. He plans to have his troops ride away at dawn, heading north to prepare ambushes. Several of the men are less than enthusiastic. [[Maslyn]] voices their thoughts, that they are all going to die. The raven flaps its wings and starts repeating the word: ''Die''. {{Ref|aSoS|Prologue}} All present troops pull out their swords and reconfirm their oaths before their fire: "For we are the swords in the darkness...". The conspirators join with the others in doing so, not willing to attract unwanted attention. The shouting of about 300 men is followed by an awkward silence. Only Mormont's raven breaks the silence to repeat one word: ''Die''. Chett thinks that this is a clever bird. {{Ref|aSoS|Prologue}} Later at night, a heavy snowfall begins and the [[Others]] arrive. The [[Battle of the Fist of the First Men]] takes place. {{Ref|aSoS|Prologue}}
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[[File:MKomarck_JonSnowLC_II.jpg|thumb|350px|right|Jon Snow, by Michael Komarck ©]]
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Samwell says he recognizes the bird, proclaiming it to be Mormont's raven. [[Alliser Thorne]] laughs, claiming that Samwell is trying to fool them. He is certain that this is one of several ravens which Tarly has trained to say ''Snow'', while Mormont's raven had a richer vocabulary. The raven looks at Jon and asks for corn. It soon changes its tune, repeating a new word: ''Kettle?'' This act helps convince the men that this is indeed Mormont's raven, and helps decide the election in favor of Jon. Samwell insists that he had nothing to do with the raven's appearance, claiming that it even scared him.{{Ref|ASOS|79}}
  
During the battle, Samwell remembers his duty. Sending away part of the messenger ravens. He had written the messages ahead of times, speaking of an attack on the Fist and leaving out any details. {{Ref|aSoS|18}} Jeor rides his horse with Mormont's raven at his shoulder. He gives orders to use fire arrows against the enemy forces. He notices Samwell and orders him to tend to the ravens. Samwell informs him that the messages have already left. Mormont replies with a single word: ''Good'', and the raven echoes the sentiment. He orders Samwell to prepare himself for further messages. With the battle still ongoing, Samwell records messages for every possible outcome. {{Ref|aSoS|18}}
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===''A Feast for Crows''===
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The raven dwells with new Lord Commander Jon Snow in his quarters, and continues to repeat certain words from ongoing conversations.{{Ref|AFFC|5}}
  
Following the Battle of the Fist of the First Men, the remnants of the Night's Watch retreat. Among the marching soldiers is Samwell Tarly. Exhausted from the forced march, Samwell eventually falls in the snow. [[Grenn]] and Paul stop to help him. Grenn tries to cheer up Samwell by having him think of his ravens. Paul starts talking of Mormont's raven. He claims that Chett promises him ownership of the raven. Then explains that he had saved food for the bird. But left the food behind when the retreat started. He asks whether Samwell can give him one of his own ravens. Samwell has to explain that the ravens in his care have already left. {{Ref|aSoS|18}} Paul keeps transporting Sam. Still mentioning his desire to have a talking bird, a pet to eat corn from his hand. Just like Mormont's raven. {{Ref|aSoS|18}}
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===''A Dance with Dragons''===
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Jon has a dream where he defends the Wall, facing the Others and their wights. He faces various people from his past.{{Ref|ADWD|58}} The dream continues with a "gnarled hand" roughly seizing his shoulder. Jon turns to face the owner of the hand and there the dream ends. He finds himself in bed with Mormont's raven pecking at his chest. It calls him ''Snow''. As Jon dresses, the raven keeps some distance from him and mutters from the other side of the room. He recognizes some familiar words: ''Corn'', ''King'', ''Snow''. Then the raven twice calls him by full name: ''Jon Snow''. Jon finds this peculiar, as he cannot remember any previous instance of the raven using his full name.{{Ref|ADWD|58}}
  
In [[King's Landing]]. a message arrives from [[Castle Black]]. [[Castellan]] [[Bowen Marsh]] has written to report that there was a battle at the Fist of the First Men, and that no survivors have reached the Wall. He fears that Jeor Mormont and the rest of the expedition force were slain. [[Pycelle]] notifies [[Tywin Lannister]], who happens to be in the company of his son [[Tyrion Lannister|Tyrion]]. Tyrion reminisces of Jeor and Mormont's raven. He recalls being rather fond of Jeor. {{Ref|aSoS|32}} Bowen has written to all five Kings ([[Joffrey Baratheon]], [[Stannis Baratheon]], [[Renly Baratheon]], [[Robb Stark]], [[Balon Greyjoy]]), requesting reinforcements. News of Renly's death have yet to reach the Wall. Tywin decides to send no men, but to intervene in the next election for the vacant position of Lord Commander. Wanting someone whose loyalty can be bought. Both Pycelle and Tywin conclude that [[Janos Slynt]] is ideal for the job. Tyrion protests that [[Denys Mallister]] and [[Cotter Pyke]] are more qualified for the position. Tywin has no intention to let men affiliated with the [[Riverlands]] or the [[Iron Islands]] control the Watch. {{Ref|aSoS|32}}
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==Words spoken by Mormont's raven==
 
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{{Columns|3|
The survivors of the Battle of the Fist of the First Men conclude their long march. A total of 44 survivors manage to reach [[Craster's Keep]]. Among them is Jeor Mormont. Bringing Mormont's raven with him. {{Ref|aSoS|33}} Samwell Tarly and Grenn converse by a firepit. Mormont's raven flies above them and starts circling the fire. It keeps repeating one word: ''Snow''. The raven is soon followed by Jeor, [[Dywen]], and acting First Ranger Ronnel Harclay. All on horseback, returning from a ride in the woods. They cross one of the gates to the Keep. Jeor pulls the reins of his horse, raises a fist, and whistles to his raven. It immediately flies down to him. When Jeor dismounts, the raven flies away from him. Jeor recognizes Samwell and calls him by last name: "[[House Tarly|Tarly]]". Samwell nervously acts if he is calling him. The raven starts repeating his question: ''Me?'' {{Ref|aSoS|33}}
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* Bones{{Ref|ADWD|28}}
 
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* Burn{{Ref|AGOT|52}}
Jeor and Samwell briefly converse about [[dragonglass]]. The conversation is interrupted when [[Craster]] approaches them to announce the birth of his son, "[[the abomination]]". The raven starts repeating his last word: ''Son''. {{Ref|aSoS|33}} [[Bannen]] succumbs to his wounds. A brief funeral service is held at sunset. The brothers solemnly chant that his watch has ended. The raven starts repeating part of the phrase: ''Ended''. {{Ref|aSoS|33}} At night, Craster shares food with his guests. Several of them are frustrated with their host, accusing him of withholding the best food. [[Ollo Lophand]] suggests that Craster has stored [[w:Oat|oats]], corn, and [[w:Barley|Barley]]. Mormont's raven recognizes one of its favorite words and starts repeating: ''Corn''. Jeor shouts: "Enough" loud enough to be heard over the raucous calls of his pet. He attempts to silence his troops. While more disgruntled men join in accusing Craster, the raven keeps calling for corn. The [[Mutiny at Craster's Keep]] is beginning. {{Ref|aSoS|33}}
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* Corn{{Ref|AGOT|52}}
 
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* Die{{Ref|ACOK|43}}
Samwell recovers from deep shock, and finds himself sitting cross-legged on the floor of the Keep, with the dying Mormont’s head in his lap. The raven is nearby. Jeor is still able to speak, commanding Samwell to make for the Wall, right now. The raven starts repeating: ''Now''. It walks from the hand of the dying man to his chest. Then plucks a hair from his beard. Jeor gives instructions to Samwell. He also wants Samwell to contact his son, [[Jorah Mormont]] and tell him to join the Watch. He calls this his "dying wish". The raven repeats the word with a questioning expression: "Wish?", then asks for corn again. Jeor turns to his pet and replies "no corn". {{Ref|aSoS|33}}
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* Duel{{Ref|AGOT|21}}
 
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* Father{{Ref|AGOT|60}}
[[Gilly]], [[Dyah]] and [[Ferny]] approach Samwell and speak to him. Jeor dies unnoticed. The raven simply cocks its head and squawks. Then turns its attention to Samwell and asks for corn. Samwell replies that there is no corn for the bird. He closes the eyes of the dead man. {{Ref|aSoS|33}} Ferny instructs Samwell to take "the girl" (Gilly) and be quick about it. The raven starts repeating one of her words: ''Quick''. Gilly worries that "they" will take her baby boy. Samwell asks clarifications on who are "they". The raven starts repeating: ''They''. Dyah explains that "Craster's sons", the Others, are approaching. {{Ref|aSoS|33}}
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* Girls{{Ref|ADWD|69}}
 
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* Gone{{Ref|ACOK|13}}
[[Jon Snow]] enters [[Mole's Town]], alerting the local population that there are [[Free Folk|wildlings]] to the south of the [[Wall]]. He then rides to [[Castle Black]]. He finds most of the garrison absent, scattered across the Wall. He still wants to report to Jeor Mormont. [[Maester Aemon]] informs him of the Mutiny at Craster's Keep and of the murder of Jeor. Jon reminisces about both Jeor and Mormont's raven. [[Donal Noye]] informs Jon that so far, 12 loyalist survivors of the Mutiny managed to return to the Wall. Including [[Eddison Tollett]], [[Bedwyck]], and [[Grenn]]. {{Ref|aSoS|48}} Grenn later names some of the other survivors: [[Dywen]], [[Donnel Hill]], [[Ulmer]], [[Lew (Left Hand)|Left Hand Lew]], and [[Garth Greyfeather]]. {{Ref|aSoS|48}}
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* Good{{Ref|ASOS|18}}
 
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* Jon Snow{{Ref|ADWD|58}}
Elections for the position of [[Lord Commander of the Night's Watch]] are ongoing. So far, no candidate has enough votes to secure election, and a new vote is about to take place. A large kettle is used as ballot box. [[Samwell Tarly]] and [[Clydas]] transport the kettle. When Clydas takes off the lidd of the kettle, a raven burst out from inside. A huge raven, old, dirty, and bedraggled. It initially tries to escape the confines of the room but fails to find an exit. It then flies three times around the room. Finally it lands on the table, next to the place where [[Jon Snow]] is seated. It starts repeating the name: ''Snow''. It then spreads its wings and flies to Jon, perching on his shoulder. {{Ref|aSoS|79}}
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* Kettle{{Ref|ASOS|79}}
 
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* King{{Ref|ADWD|58}}
Samwell claims to recognize this bird, proclaiming it to be [[Mormont's raven]]. [[Alliser Thorne]] laughs, claiming that Samwell is trying to fool them. He is certain that this is one of several ravens which the younger man has trained to say ''Snow''. While Mormont's raven had a richer vocabulary. {{Ref|aSoS|79}} The raven looks at Jon and asks for corn. He receives neither corn, nor answer. It soon changes its tune, starting repeating a new word: ''Kettle?''. Proving it knows more than one word. This act helps convince the present men that this is indeed the familiar raven. And helps decide the election in favor of Jon. {{Ref|aSoS|79}}
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* Know{{Ref|AGOT|70}}
 
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* Live{{Ref|AGOT|19}}
When [[Cotter Pyke]] demands supper, the raven repeats the term: ''Supper''.  Soon, Jon walks across the castle with Mormont's raven on his shoulder and [[Ghost]] at his heels. [[Pypar]] is certain that Samwell arranged the scene in the voting room. But he has no idea how could Samwell be certain that the bird will act according to plan. It could just as easily decide to perch on [[Janos Slynt]], deciding the election in his favor. Samwell insists that he had nothing to do with Mormont's raven. Even claiming that it scared him. {{Ref|aSoS|79}}
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* Obey{{Ref|AFFC|5}}
 
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* Old{{Ref|ACOK|34}}
===A Feast for Crows ===
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* Price{{Ref|ADWD|44}}
In [[Castle Black]], [[Samwell Tarly]] arrives at the private quarters of [[Jon Snow]], previously occupied by [[Donal Noye]]. Mormont's raven perches on the shoulder of its new master, Jon. Jon is reading a parchment and the raven seems to be also examining the document. Samwell gets the impression that the bird is reading. When it notices Samwell, the raven flies toward him. It asks for corn and Samwell offers some seed to it. The raven lands on his wrist and starts feeding from his palm. It pecks both the seed and the hand holding it, paining Samwell. He withdraws his hand and the raven flies away. The sudden movement causes the seed to spread around the room. {{Ref|aFfC|5}} Jon asks whether the raven broke through the skin, calling his pet a "wretch". Samwell removes his glove and notices that he is bleeding. Jon jokes that they all bleed for the [[Night's Watch]], and suggests wearing thicker gloves. {{Ref|aFfC|5}}
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* Snow{{Ref|ADWD|58}}
 
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* Something{{Ref|ACOK|43}}
The raven starts hunting for the discarded seed. It seems to be paying no attention to the two men and their conversation. There is a debate on whether [[Melisandre]] can use [[Mance Rayder]] for her spells. Jon doubts whether Mance's blood is "king's blood" or "brigand's blood". The raven looks up from the floor and screams his last word: ''Blood''. {{Ref|aFfC|5}} Jon is sending Samwell to the [[Citadel]] of [[Oldtown]]. He commands his subordinate to hide his fears. Adding that Samwell will not just try to do it, he will obey. Mormont's raven flaps its wings and repeats: ''Obey.'' Jon then dismisses Samwell. {{Ref|aFfC|5}}
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* Son{{Ref|ASOS|33}}
[[File:MKomarck_JonSnowLC_II.jpg‎ |Jon Snow - by Michael Komarck ©|thumb|300px|right]]
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* Sorry{{Ref|ASOS|18}}
 
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* Wall{{Ref|ACOK|23}}
=== A Dance with Dragons ===
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* War{{Ref|AGOT|70}}
When [[Jeor Mormont]] died (see above), the reportedly ate the face of his corpse. Acting as a regular [[w:Scavenger|Scavenger]]. [[Jon Snow]] contemplates this information on the pet, but does not mention his source on the subject. {{Ref|aDwD|3}} <ref> Jon Snow was away during the [[Mutiny at Craster's Keep]] and has never mentioned seeing the remains of Jeor. Samwell Tarly has seen the corpse, but never mentioned the raven eating the corpse. The activities of the raven between the death of Jeor and the election of Jon remain unknown. </ref>
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* Why{{Ref|AGOT|70}}
 
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}}
[[Jon Snow]] sleeps and has a wolf dream, seemingly experiencing things from the perspective of Ghost. Throughout his dream something keeps calling: ''Snow''. He has the impression it is the [[Moon]]. Then he hears wings flapping and realizes that a raven flies in the gloom of his quarters. Mormont's raven lands on his chest and uses its claws to scratch him. The raven screams ''Snow'' into his face. It was the raven and not the Moon that kept calling impatiently. {{Ref|aDwD|3}} Jon speaks to the raven. At first simply noting that he is listening to it. Then asks whether the raven to wake up [[Jeor Mormont]] in this way. He calls for the raven to get its wings out of his face. He gets one of his arms out of the bed blanket and shoos away the raven. It merely flies to the bed post and keeps calling his name. He throws a pillow at it, but the raven maneuvers itself out of the projectile's way. {{Ref|aDwD|3}}
 
 
 
[[Eddison Tollett]], personal steward of the Lord Commander, enters the room and suggests breakfast. The raven immediately asks for corn, three times. Jon jokingly suggests roast raven and half a pint of [[w:Ale|ale]] for breakfast. Eddison jokes that he is asked to deliver three corns and one roast raven, only [[Hobb]] has prepared a different breakfast for Jon. {{Ref|aDwD|3}} More seriously, Eddison reports that two more [[Free Folk|wildlings]] surrendered themselves. A mother with her young girl. They also transported a dead infant. The raven hears one of its favorite words and starts repeating: ''Dead''. {{Ref|aDwD|3}} While Jon urinates, the raven mutters complaints. The raven observes him with "shrewd eyes" while he dresses himself. Then flies to the window. The meaning of the move is well understood. Jon opens the window and releases his pet. The raven flies away from the confines of the room. {{Ref|aDwD|3}} Jon wonders whether the raven views him as its [[thrall]]. {{Ref|aDwD|3}} <ref>The events of aDwD, Chapter 3 precede those of aFfC, Chapter 5.</ref>
 
 
 
Jon has a meeting with [[Gilly]] in his private quarters. The raven is in the room with them. Jon introduces his baby swapping plan, switching the identities of the [[Wildling prince|Wildling Prince]] and [[the abomination]] Gilly pleas with him: "No. Please, no". The raven picks up the word and screams: ''No''. {{Ref|aDwD|7}} Jon threatens Gilly. Proclaiming that when [[Melisandre]] burns the Prince, Gilly's son will die as well. The raven starts repeating: ''Die''. {{Ref|aDwD|7}} <ref>The events of aDwD, Chapter 7 are tied to those of aFfC, Chapter 5. The meeting of Jon Snow and Gilly directly precedes that of Jon Snow and Samwell Tarly. The second meeting is described from two different perspectives. </ref> Jon next has a meeting with [[Samwell Tarly]]. The raven pecks at the palm of Samwell and causes him to bleed. It listens to Jon mention "king's blood" and screams ''Blood''. When Jon commands his subordinate to obey, the raven flaps its wings and repeats ''Obey''. {{Ref|aDwD|7}}
 
 
 
Jon decides to distance himself from his former friends and transfer them away from [[Castle Black]]. He is sending [[Halder]] and [[Todder]] to the [[Shadow Tower]], [[Grenn]] and [[Pypar]] to [[Eastwatch-by-the-Sea]]. As he writes the relevant orders, the raven peers at him from a nearby window. Jon thinks ruefully of Mormont's raven as his last remaining friend. He considers that he will either outlive this pet, or have his own face eaten by it. Having the same fate as Jeor. {{Ref|aDwD|10}} <ref>Jon does not think of [[Ghost]] as a friend. Considering the direwolf a part of his self.</ref>
 
 
 
The Big Drunkard, a centuries-old [[w:Fraxinus|ash tree]], stands 0,5 miles (804, 7 meters) south of [[Castle Black]]. While escorting a column of wagons heading towards [[Mole's Town]], Eddison Tollett notes a face carved on the tree. A face gazing at the north. He notifies Jon, who considers wildlings responsible for the carving. He suspects this has some kind of religious significance, presumably an attempt to emulate the faces of [[weirwood]]s.
 
Further south, a second face is discovered carved on an [[w:Chestnut|chestnut tree]]. A face gazing at an an icy stream and the old bridge above it. Jon finds Mormont's raven perching on this second tree. It recognizes him as well, spreading its wings and screaming. Jon raises his fist and whistles at his pet. It flies to him and asks for corn. Jon speaks to it. Informing the greedy raven that there is corn for the Free Folk, but none for the bird. {{Ref|aDwD|21}} A third face is discovered carved on [[w:Oak|oak tree]], standing just outside Mole's Town. {{Ref|aDwD|21}}
 
 
 
The Night's Watch delivers rations to the residents of Mole's Town. A riot nearly brakes out over arguments concerning the food. Jon commands [[Rory]] to blow his horn, calling the attention of the crowd to him. Most residents grow quiet and prepare to listen to him. The raven starts muttering his name: ''Snow''. Jon wants to recruit volunteers for the defense of the Wall. Promising more food for the fighters. Silence falls as the crowd contemplates this option. The raven mutters two different words: ''Eat'' and ''Corn''. {{Ref|aDwD|21}} [[Sigorn]], [[Magnar]] of [[Thenn]] refuses to fight for Jon. Threatening to kill Jon and his men. Mormont's raven flaps its wings and starts repeating one of his words: ''Kill''. {{Ref|aDwD|21}} Jon attracts his first volunteer, a young girl who reminds him of [[Arya Stark]]. He warns that volunteers will have to obey commands. Insubordination is punishable by death. He threatens to personally decapitate offenders. He used the expression "I'll have your head off", and the raven starts repeating ''Off''. The girl still volunteers, and others start following her example. {{Ref|aDwD|21}}
 
 
 
Jon re-assigns [[Alliser Thorne]] to the rangers and sends him on his first mission [[Beyond the Wall]]. Alliser is certain that Jon is sending him out to die. The raven starts repeating one of its favorite words: ''Die''. Jon does not appreciate the intervention of the bird in this confrontation and swats it away. {{Ref|aDwD|28}} Jon and "[[Rattleshirt]]" ([[Mance Rayder]]) have a sparring match. Jon acquires several bruises. By nightfall, these bruises turn purple. Jon speaks to Mormont's raven. Explaining that they will next turn yellow and eventually fade away. In the meantime, he will appear as sallow (yellowish) as the Lord of Bones (Rattleshirt). The raven starts repeating ''Bones''. Jon gets the impression that it is in agreement with him. {{Ref|aDwD|28}} His thoughts turn to Arya and whether to help her, since he recently heard of the impending wedding of "Arya" ([[Jeyne Poole]]) and [[Ramsay Bolton]]. Nearby, the raven keeps repeating his name:  ''Snow''. {{Ref|aDwD|28}}
 
 
 
Just before the dawn, Jon parts with [[Val]]. She is heading north of the Wall, , tasked with locating and contacting [[Tormund|Tormund Giantsbane]] for him. Jon then returns to his chambers, where Eddison serves him breakfast. Mormont's raven claims the [[w:Bacon|bacon]] of said breakfast for itself. It then perches on a lintel above the door and feasts on its prize. Jon calls his pet a thief. It repeats the word ''Thief'', as if agreeing with him. {{Ref|aDwD|39}} Jon receives a morning visit from [[Bowen Marsh]], [[Othell Yarwyck]], and [[Cellador]]. Jon offers to have food and drink delivered for them. As they decide on what they want for breakfast, the raven is still on the lintel and demands: ''Corn''. Jon instructs Eddison to bring wine for Cellador, a plate for Othell, and nothing for the bird. Bowen has already refused the offer to eat with the Lord Commander. {{Ref|aDwD|39}} Eddison returns with the requested items. The raven is still on the lintel and the opening of the door annoys it. It mutters in frustration. Bowen waits for the steward to leave and then lists his concerns over recent decisions of Jon. {{Ref|aDwD|39}}
 
 
 
In conversation, Bowen uses the term "wildling" and Jon uses the term "free folk". Both in reference to [[Leathers]]. The raven starts muttering, using the terms: ''Free'', ''Corn'', and ''King''. {{Ref|aDwD|39}} Cellador turns the conversation to another matter. Jon has decided to re-assign Eddison and appoint [[Satin]] as his personal steward. This position is usually associated with promotion, as stewards eventually rise to command positions. Cellador protests since Satin is a [[w:catamite|catamite]]. Bowen and Jon argue intensely over the qualifications of Satin. After a while, Bowen is flashed with anger and stares silently at Jon. The raven mutters two words: ''Corn'', and ''Kill'', though nobody had used the word "kill" during the conversation. {{Ref|aDwD|39}} Later, the conversation turns to Jon openly inviting Tormund and his forces to cross the Wall. The three subordinate officers clearly disagree with this decision. The raven starts screaming ''Snow'', though Jon decides to ignore it. {{Ref|aDwD|39}} The conversation turns to [[Mother Mole]] and the people who followed her to [[Hardhome]]. Jon asks his officers to consider what will happen when all these "enemies" are dead. From the lint, the raven starts repeating ''Dead''. Jon states that the dead will rise as [[Others|wights]] and then dismisses his officers. {{Ref|aDwD|39}}
 
 
 
Jon arranges a private meeting with [[Tycho Nestoris]], a representative of the Iron Bank of Braavos. Both men head towards the private quarters of the Lord Commander. There, Mormont's raven greets them by requesting corn.
 
Tycho explains the nature of his mission. The [[Iron Throne]] has ceased all payments of its debt to the Bank. Tycho has been send to personally meet [[Stannis Baratheon]]. If the rival king is deemed worthy of their trust, the Bank will lend help to his cause. The raven repeats one of his words: ''Help''. {{Ref|aDwD|44}} Jon informs Tycho that Stannis is no longer stationed at the Wall. The King leads a host, marching south to [[Winterfell]]. Tycho intends to follow him there. Jon offers horses, provisions, and guides to Tycho, sufficient to get him to [[Deepwood Motte]]. But this offer comes with a price. The raven starts repeating: ''Price''.  {{Ref|aDwD|44}}
 
 
 
Following a conversation with [[Axell Florent]], Jon returns to his quarters. He finds Mormont's raven perched on an oak-and-leather chair. The bird asks for food. Jon heads to a nearby sack and retrieves some seed. He scatters the seed on the floor and lets the raven eat. He sits on the chair and falls asleep. Sometime later, [[Mully]] wakes him up. The raven keeps calling ''Snow''. Mully has come to report that [[Ty]] and [[Dannel]] have returned with a highborn girl. A girl asking for Jon. The raven starts repeating:''Girl''. Jon leaves his quarters to meet this girl, [[Alys Karstark]]. {{Ref|aDwD|44}}
 
 
 
Jon and [[Tormund|Tormund Giantsbane]] negotiate terms for allowing the Free Folk to pass south of the Wall. Jon taken [[Ghost]], using the direwolf for protection. But when the meeting ends, Jon has trouble locating Ghost. He whistles, trying to summon Ghost. Instead of the direwolf, Mormont's raven responds to the call. It was perching on an old oak tree. It flies from the tree to Jon's saddle, and asks for corn. Jon is somewhat surprised. He was unaware that his pet was following him. His first instinct is to shoo away the raven. He reaches for it and then changes his mind, stroking its feathers. It mutters ''Snow'', knowingly. Soon, Ghost and Val jointly emerge from the [[Haunted Forest]]. {{Ref|aDwD|53}} Jon and Val cover the distance from Tormund's camp to the gate of Castle Black on horseback. Ghost and Mormont's raven follow their trail. When they reach the gate, the raven flies away. {{Ref|aDwD|53}}
 
 
 
Jon has a dream where he defends the Wall, facing the Others and their wights. He faces various people from his past. {{Ref|aDwD|58}} <ref>The persons depicted include the eagle of [[Orell]], [[Ygritte]], [[Donal Noye]], [[Dick Follard]], [[Qhorin Halfhand]], and [[Robb Stark]]. </ref> The dream continues with a "gnarled hand" roughly seizing his shoulder. Jon turns to face the owner of the hand and there the dream ends. He finds himself in bed with Mormont's raven pecking at his chest. It calls him ''Snow''. John swats at it. The raven shrieks its displeasure and flies to the bedpost. In the gloom of his quarters, Jon can still see the raven glaring down at him. He finds something baleful in this glare. {{Ref|aDwD|58}} It is still the time just before the dawn, the "hour of the wolf". {{Ref|aDwD|58}} As Jon dresses, the raven keeps some distance from him and mutters from the other side of the room. He recognizes some familiar words: ''Corn'', ''King'', ''Snow''. Then the raven twice calls him by full name: ''Jon Snow''. He finds this peculiar. He can not remember any previous instance of the raven using his full name. {{Ref|aDwD|58}}
 
  
Following a meeting with [[Selyse Florent]] and [[Melisandre]], Jon returns to his quarters. Both Ghost and Mormont's raven seem agitated. The direwolf paces back and forth. He refuses to obey commands and does not allow Jon to touch him. The raven keeps screaming ''Snow''. Jon shoos the bird. {{Ref|aDwD|69}}
+
==Quotes==
 +
{{Quote|'''Jon''': Lord [[Jeor Mormont|Mormont's]] raven likes fruit and corn.<br>
 +
'''Aemon''': He is a rare bird.{{ref|AGOT|60}}|[[Jon Snow]] and [[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon Targaryen]]}}
  
Jon has a meeting with Tormund. The raven stands nearby. Tormund mentions the girls (daughters) of [[Gerrick Kingsblood]]. The raven starts repeating one of his words: ''Girls'', making Tormund laugh. He calls the raven "a bird with sense". He offers to purchase "the bloody bird". Jon jokes that Tormund will probably eat the raven. The raven "darkly" (gloomily) repeats ''Eat'' , and flaps its wings. Then asks for corn. {{Ref|aDwD|69}}
+
==Notes==
 +
{{Notes}}
  
==References and Notes==
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==References==
{{references}}
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{{References|2}}
  
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[[Category:Birds]]
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[[Category:House Mormont]]
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[[Category:Night's Watch]]
  
[[Category:Animals listing]]
 
 
[[es:Cuervo de Mormont]]
 
[[es:Cuervo de Mormont]]
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[[fr:Corbeau de Mormont]]
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[[ru:Ворон Мормонта]]

Revision as of 03:39, 2 December 2022

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Sandara Tang Old Bear's Raven.jpg
Jeor Mormont's raven - by Sandara Tang © FFG

Owners
Species Raven
Books

Mormont's raven is a pet raven of Jeor Mormont, Lord Commander of the Night's Watch. He can speak, usually repeating a one syllable word twice. Typically it is a word just said by one of the people around, but it is often uncannily appropriate.

Appearance and Character

Mormont's raven has beady black eyes[1] and big black wings.[2] Jon Snow describes it as an "old raven", though its exact age remains unknown.[3][N 1] At some point it is described as a "huge raven".[4] It seems to be rather large for its species.[5]

This raven is particularly fond of fruit and corn, eating kernels out of Jeor's hand. Maester Aemon considers this a rather rare trait, since most ravens prefer meat.[3] The raven is usually scruffy in appearance. Jon Snow considers it bold and fearless. He also considers it clever, too clever.[5]

History

Jeor Mormont with his raven, by Antonio José Manzanedo © FFG

The raven has served as the companion of Jeor Mormont for "long years".[5]

Recent Events

A Game of Thrones

Jeor Mormont with his raven, by Amok ©

At Castle Black, Alliser Thorne orders recent recruit Jon Snow to report to Jeor Mormont, Lord Commander of the Night's Watch. Jon first notices the raven perched on the arm of Jeor. The Lord Commander gives Jon a letter that has arrived from Winterfell for him. The message was written by Robb Stark, informing Jon that Bran Stark has recovered from a coma. Though the boy is crippled, Jon is happy that his brother is going to live. The raven flies to the shoulder of Jeor, while repeating the last word of Jon: Live![6]

During a meal, Alliser and Tyrion Lannister insult each other. Bystanders laugh, while the raven caws loudly from above a window, repeating the last word of Tyrion: Duel![1] Tyrion finds the bird annoying and privately considers throttling it. He decides against it, not wanting to insult Jeor.[1]

Later, Jon is forced to fight the wight of Othor. Jon improvises and uses Jeor's oil lamp to start a fire. The raven starts cawing Burn, seemingly on its own initiative.[7]

After Jon attempts to desert to avenge his late father, Lord Eddard Stark, Jeor asks whether Jon finds the war of Robb Stark to be more important than their own war. The raven flaps its wings and starts repeating: War. Jon finds the words to be song-like. Jeor suggests that Eddard himself sent Jon to the Wall, though nobody truly knows why. The raven repeats the question: Why?[8]

A Clash of Kings

Lord Commander Mormont brings his raven with him while commanding the great ranging. It continues to repeat various words of those having conversations with Jeor.[9]

A Storm of Swords

Chett and others on the ranging plan to mutiny and murder Jeor. Small Paul is convinced to assist once he is told he can have Mormont's raven afterwards.[10]

The raven survives the fight at the Fist and accompanies his master to Craster's Keep.[11] After Jeor is murdered during the mutiny, the raven asks Samwell Tarly for corn. It seems to encourage Sam to leave quickly with Gilly to escape the approaching Others and their wights, but is not seen after Sam leaves Craster's Keep.[11]

Later, at Castle Black, the elections for the position of Lord Commander of the Night's Watch are ongoing. No candidate has enough votes to secure election, and a new vote is taken. A large kettle, used as the ballot box, is brought to the hall's table by Samwell and Clydas. When Clydas takes off the lid of the kettle, a raven bursts out from inside. It then flies three times around the room finally it landing on the table, next to the place where Jon Snow is seated. It starts repeating the name: Snow. It then spreads its wings and flies to Jon, perching on his shoulder.[4]

Jon Snow, by Michael Komarck ©

Samwell says he recognizes the bird, proclaiming it to be Mormont's raven. Alliser Thorne laughs, claiming that Samwell is trying to fool them. He is certain that this is one of several ravens which Tarly has trained to say Snow, while Mormont's raven had a richer vocabulary. The raven looks at Jon and asks for corn. It soon changes its tune, repeating a new word: Kettle? This act helps convince the men that this is indeed Mormont's raven, and helps decide the election in favor of Jon. Samwell insists that he had nothing to do with the raven's appearance, claiming that it even scared him.[4]

A Feast for Crows

The raven dwells with new Lord Commander Jon Snow in his quarters, and continues to repeat certain words from ongoing conversations.[12]

A Dance with Dragons

Jon has a dream where he defends the Wall, facing the Others and their wights. He faces various people from his past.[13] The dream continues with a "gnarled hand" roughly seizing his shoulder. Jon turns to face the owner of the hand and there the dream ends. He finds himself in bed with Mormont's raven pecking at his chest. It calls him Snow. As Jon dresses, the raven keeps some distance from him and mutters from the other side of the room. He recognizes some familiar words: Corn, King, Snow. Then the raven twice calls him by full name: Jon Snow. Jon finds this peculiar, as he cannot remember any previous instance of the raven using his full name.[13]

Words spoken by Mormont's raven

Quotes

Jon: Lord Mormont's raven likes fruit and corn.
Aemon: He is a rare bird.[3]

Notes

  1. The lifespan of the Common Raven depends on its living conditions. In the wild, the average raven lives for 10 to 15 years. Some survive longer, dying between the 20th and 23rd year of their lives. In captivity, a raven can survive longer still. A number of individual ravens of the Tower of London managed to reach or surpass the 40th year of their lives.

References