Mormont's raven

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Mormont's raven
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Jeor Mormont by reneaigner.jpg
Jeor Mormont and Mormont's raven by Rene Aigner©

Allegiance Night's Watch
Race Raven
Books

Mormont's raven is a pet raven of Jeor Mormont, Lord Commander of the Night's Watch. He cans 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.

Appearance and traits

Mormont's raven has beady black eyes and [1] and big black wings. [2] Jon Snow describes it as an "old raven", though its exact age remains unknown. [3] [4] At some point it is described as a "huge raven". [5] It seems to be rather large for its species. [6]

This raven is particularly fond of fruit and "corn" (grain). Maester Aemon considers this a rather rare trait, since most ravens prefer meat. [3] The raven is typically scruffy in appearance. Jon Snow considers it bold and fearless. He also considers it clever, too clever. [6]

History

Mormont's raven served as the companion of Jeor Mormont for "long years". [6]

Recent Events

A Game of Thrones

At Castle Black, Alliser Thorne orders recent recruit Jon Snow to report to Lord Commander Jeor Mormont. Jeor waits for him at the Lord Commander's Tower. Jon first notices Mormont's raven, perched on the arm of Jeor. Jeor feeds his pet kernels of corn. He shakes the raven off his hand. The pet flaps its wings and flies to the window. It observes Jeor as the man hands a message from Winterfell to Jon. The raven mutters in a raucous voice: Corn. 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. Jeor gathers up a fistful of corn and whistles to his raven. The raven flies to the shoulder of Jeor, while repeating the last word of Jon: Live! [7]

During a meal, Alliser Thorne and visitor Tyrion Lannister insult each other. Tyrion mockingly challenges Alliser to a duel, then uses a tiny fork to poke at the chest of his opponent. Bystanders laugh, while the raven caws loudly from above a window. It keeps repeating the last word of Tyrion: Duel! [1] Later, Jeor and Tyrion have a private conversation. The raven positions itself by its master. Jeor calls himself a fool for sending the inexperienced Waymar Royce on a ranging mission, a mission which ended in disaster. The raven starts repeating the word Fool, seemingly in agreement with its master. Jeor pays no attention to the raven. On the other hand, Tyrion notices the raven peering down at him. He finds the bird annoying and privately considers throttling it. He decides against it, not wanting to insult Jeor. [1] The conversation ends and Tyrion prepares to head to his sleeping quarters at the King's Tower. Jeor whistles at his raven. It flies to its master and perches on his shoulder. Mormont smiles and starts feeding corn to the raven. He carries corn in his pocket for this purpose. [1]

Jon Snow becomes a Sworn Brother of the Night's Watch. He will serve as the personal steward of the Lord Commander. [8] The corpses of Jafer Flowers and Othor are discovered in the Haunted Forest, a half-day's ride from Castle Black. Jeor personally leads a detachment of rangers in examining the bodies. With them are two stewards, Jon Snow and Samwell Tarly. Shortly after their return to the fortress, Jon joins Jeor in the quarters of the Lord Commander. Mormont's raven immediately screams at the steward, demanding Corn. Jeor informs Jon that he already fed the raven. It is not hungry, just greedy. [9] Jeor has bad news to discuss with Jon. He twice commands Jon to sit down first. The raven starts screaming: Sit. When Jon finally sits down, Jeor shares the news with his steward. Eddard Stark has been arrested, charged with treason. Jeor feels obligated to remind Jon that his duty is not with his family, but with the Watch. That his old life ended when Jon took the black. The raven starts loudly echoing the last word of Jeor: Black. Jeor pays no attention to his pet. [9]

At supper, Alliser Thorne mocks Jon Snow, calling him a traitor's bastard. Jon attacks him with a dagger, furious. A number of present men (Samwell Tarly, Pypar, Grenn, and Todder) intervene and prevent him from killing Alliser. Jon is then confined to his sleeping cell. Jeor and Mormont's raven briefly visit him there. Jeor calls Jon a "boy", instead of a man. The raven starts repeating: Boy. Jeor shakes his head, disgusted with his steward. [9] Ghost shares the cell with Jon. Something alerts the direwolf, who starts scratching the cell door. Jon wakes up due to the noise. He discovers his guard murdered, and hears suspicious sounds coming from the Lord Commander's chambers. As he starts heading for the chambers, Mormont's raven starts screaming. It is repeating the word Corn. Ghost enters the private quarters of Jeor and immediately attacks a wight, Othor. The raven flies above Ghost and Othor, still screaming. [9] Jon Snow attacks Othor with a longsword. The wight shrugs off wounds that would kill a human. Jon switches modes from attacking to simply defending himself. His own shrill voice mixes with the screams of the raven. Othor soon manages to disarm his opponent. Jeor enters the room, naked and groggy from sleep. Jon improvises and uses Jeor's oil lamp to start a fire. The raven starts cawing Burn, seemingly on its own initiative. [9]

Jon successfully destroys the wight. The price of his victory consists of severe burns in his right arm. Maester Aemon determines that some hand scars will be permanent. Afterwards, Jeor enquires on the health status of Jon. Mormont's raven is with him and starts repeating one of his words: Well. Jon asks for information on his father. The raven walks across the shoulders of Jeor, bobbing its head and repeating Father. Jon has the impression that the bird is responding to his question by taunting him. Jeor is also annoyed. He reaches for its beak in an attempt to shut it. The raven reacts quickly in escaping him. It hops up on his head and then flies to a nearby window. Jeor grumbles that his pet only offers him grief and noise. He wonders why he puts up with this pestilential bird. [3]

Jeor shares the latest news from King's Landing with Jon. Barristan Selmy has been dismissed from the Kingsguard, replaced with Sandor Clegane. Selmy is wanted for treason but the City Watch of King's Landing failed to arrest him. Jeor is not impressed with the decision making. He is also not impressed with a mere boy, Joffrey Baratheon, sitting on the Iron Throne. The crow laughs shrilly, repeating the word Boy. [3] The raven takes advantage of a pause in the conversation to request corn. Jeor silences it by command. [3] Jeor places Longclaw on the table in front of him. The raven lands on the table and walks towards the sword. It examines the item with obvious curiosity. Jeor asks Jon to take the sword. Mormont's raven starts repeating the request: Take it, while preening its feathers. [3] Jeor praises Jon for figuring one of the weaknesses of the wights, fire. He complains, however, that they should remember such lessons from the Long Night. He points that if the Watch does not remember, then who will? The raven repeats the phrase: Who will, seemingly in agreement with its master. When Jeor informs Jon of the name of his new sword, "Longclaw", the raven seems to be familiar with only part of the word. It starts repeating: Claw. [3] Jeor informs Jon that he is sending Alliser Thorne to King's Landing, to personally deliver a message to Joffrey concerning the wights. He hopes that the severed hand of a wight will get more attention than a written delivered by "a glorified crow" (raven). His own pet repeats the word Crow. Jon thinks that there is faint indignation in the voice of the bird, and that it is protesting the use of the term. Jeor simply ignores it. [3]

Jon resumes his duties as personal stewart. One of his first tasks involves delivering a complaint to Three-Finger Hobb. The cook had recently served boiled mutton to Jeor, but the meat was grey. Both Mormont and his raven had refused to even touch it. As Jon prepares to leave the room, Jeor turns his attention to the pet. He uses a thumb to stroke the head of the raven. The bird responds with a quork, for once sounding content. [3] Following a failed attempt to desert from the Night's Watch, Jon delivers breakfast to Jeor. Mormont's raven is walking back and front across the shoulders of its master, constantly muttering about Corn. The bird notices Jon and shrieks. Jeor is already aware of the "moonlight ride" of his stewart. Jon is surprised and needlessly asks his commander if he knows. The raven repeats part of the question: Know. [10] Jon concludes that Jeor wants him executed for desertion. He states that he is not afraid to die. The raven repeats Die. But Jeor hopes that the boy is not afraid to live either. As Jeor berates the would-be deserter, Mormont's raven has its own breakfast. It pecks at an egg, breaks the shell, and then pushes its beak through the new hole. Feasting on the white and yolk of the interior. [10] Jeor mentions that Benjen Stark was only one of several rangers to have gone missing in action. The raven has barely finished eating and bits of egg dribble from its beak. Yet it starts bobbing its heat and repeating the first name of the missing Stark. 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 points that Eddard Stark himself send Jon to the Wall, though who can really know why. The raven repeats the question: Why?[10]

The conversations ends with Jeor announcing his plans to personally lead a new expedition to the north, the Great Ranging. He wants to take his steward with him. Asking Jon to decide whether his loyalties lie with the Watch or not. [10]

A Clash of Kings

Jeor Mormont with his raven by Wouter Bruneel.

In Castle Black, Maester Aemon tasks Samwell Tarly with searching the library for maps. Maps needed for the Great Ranging. He finds at least a dozen maps depicting the areas Beyond the Wall. He also finds a number of books providing further details on the area. With the task completed, Jon Snow leads Samwell to the King's Tower, the current residence of Jeor Mormont. Their entry in the quarters of the Lord Commander attracts the attention of Mormont's raven. It greets them by shrieking: Snow, the last name of the steward. [2]

Jeor has an argument with Thoren Smallwood, who states that ranging is not a duty of the Lord Commander. He somewhat softens his words, by saying that this is how it seems to him. The raven flaps its wing and starts repeating the last word of Thoren: Me. Jeor pulls rank on Thoren, who is the acting First Ranger. [2] Jeor turns his attention to the maps Samwell brought him, and complains that they are old. Some of the information may be outdated. The raven repeats the word: Old. [2] The conversation changes topics, from the maps to the messenger ravens chosen for the Great Ranging. Jeor demands the best ravens available, both smart and strong. If they all die out there, the Watch still has to receive information on the location and manner of their death. The raven repeats the word: Strong. Samwell is left speechless at the mere mention of butchery. Jeor dismisses him, and then wonders whether the boy is as much of a fool as he seems. The raven repeats : Fool, in a tone of voice which seems to be complaining. [2]

Jeor and Jon privately discuss on the life story of Maester Aemon. The discussion includes mentions of the Targaryen succession from Daeron II onwards. The term "King" is repeatedly mentioned, and Mormont's raven starts constantly saying it. It flies to the shoulder of its master, and struts back and forth. While keeping its chant of King. Jon smiles and concludes that the raven likes this particular word. Jeor adds his own conclusion, that this is an easy word to say and like. Jon jokes that the raven offers the title and crown to Jeor. Jeor points out that there already too many kings in the Seven Kingdoms. [2] Jeor uses a finger to stroke the raven under the beak. Then mentions that Aemon and Jon have something in common, being brothers to kings (Aegon V Targaryen and Robb Stark). Jon reminds him that they also have a vow in common, the vows of the Night's Watch. Jeor responds with a loud snort, disturbing the raven. It starts flying in circles around the room. Jeor turns the discussion to broken vows, and on whether Jon is jealous of his brother. While the conversation is ongoing, Jeor whistles to the raven. Which flies back to its owner and perches on his arm. Jeor feeds corn to his pet. [2]

Jeor Mormont and his expedition force arrive at Whitetree. The raven perches on the shoulder of its master. The village is empty but still has a memorable feature. The entire village stands under the shadow of a giant weirwood. Jeor notes that this an old tree, and the raven recognizes one of his words. It starts repeating: Old. [11] Jeor wonders where the wildlings have gone. Not long after, flies up to the weirwood and perches on it. Repeating the word Gone. [11] Jeon records their findings in a brief letter, which he intends to send to Maester Aemon. He then whistles to his raven, summoning it back. It lands on the head of Jeor's horse, which whickers in response. The raven requests corn. [11]

Samwell Tarly attempts to teach a few words to the ravens in his care. Three of them have already learned the term Snow. Jon Snow is not particularly pleased. Mormont's raven is already in the habit of croaking his name. He does not want a group of ravens to keep repeating the word, a term that is considered synonymous to ill-omens and death in the North. Jeor is not enthusiastic either. Judging from his own raven, he comments that talking ravens are noisy and never have anything worthwhile to say. [11]

The expedition continues under blowing rain for 6 days. The feathers of Mormont's raven are ruffled. The bird itself is water-soaked and in a grumpy mood. Mirroring its master in both respects. The horn of Jarman Buckwell signals that the scouts of the host have already reached Craster's Keep. Jeor rejoices that Craster is still there to meet them. The raven flaps its wings and ruffles up its feathers. [12] The Keep is small and only part of the 200 visitors are allowed inside. Among them are Jeor and his raven. Jeor seats himself in a common bench, alongside his subordinates. The raven perches on his shoulders and mutters. Nobody pays much attention to the bird. [12] Jeor notes the isolation of the Keep and the small number of permanent residents. Too few to actually defend it in case of danger. He offers men to Craster, sufficient to lead Craster and his family to the Wall. His raven starts screaming Wall, as if supporting the notion. It also spreads its wings behind Jeor's head, in a style reminiscent of a high collar. [12] Craster turns down the offer. Claiming that he is free beyond the Wall, while he would become a mere servant in the Wall. He asks one of his wives to explain their reasons for staying. She gives a rehearsed speech on the matter. Concluding with the slogan "Better to die free than live a slave". Mormont's raven merely mutters her last word: Slave. [12]

Craster claims to be able to handle the wights on his own. Jarman asks their host if he has trouble with the living, particularly the king. A reference to Mance Rayder, the King-Beyond-the-Wall. The raven recognizes the term and starts repeating one of its favorite words: King. [12] The following morning, Jon Snow enters the Keep. The raven is the first to notice his presence. It lazily flies to him and perches on top of Longclaw's hilt. It then nips at a strand of Jon's hair. The raven is asking him for corn, when Jeor intervenes. He asks Jon to ignore the wretched beggar bird. It has already eaten, feasting on bacon. Jeor and Jon briefly discuss the weather and breakfast. Jon manages to drive the raven off his sword hilt. It returns to Jeor and defecates on his shoulder. Jeor grumbles that his raven should not be saving such treatment for him. The raven responds with a quork. [12]

The Watch leaves Craster's Keep, heading north. The expedition crosses a flooded river. Ghost swims across and then shakes, spraying mud and water in all directions. The raven screeches in frustration. [12] While crossing a wooded area, Jon approaches Jeor. He wants to reveal that Craster sacrifices his sons to the Others. Jeor simply answers, "yes". He already knows about Craster's sacrifices, and so do the other rangers. It is not really a secret. Meanwhile, the raven repeats: Yes. [12] The Watch eventually arrives at the Fist of the First Men, where Jeor decides to set camp. He dismounts with a sudden movement, dislodging the raven from his shoulder. Mormont's raven complains loudly and flies away from him. The ancient ringfort dates to the Dawn Age. So, Thoren Smallwood comments on how old and strong the location is. The raven recognizes the term and starts repeating: Old. Jeor growls at the bird, silencing it by command. Jon suspects that Jeor is feeling his age.[13]

Jeor and Thoren examine the available defenses, increasingly convinced that the Fist should serve as their headquarters for a while. Jeor lifts a hand to the wind, and the raven immediately lands on the forearm. Its claws scratch the ringmail of Jeor's uniform. [13] Later, Jeor and several officers meet at his tent to discuss strategic plans. Jon Snow serves hot spiced wine to the Lord Commander. The raven hops down Jeor's arm and asks for corn. Following the meeting, the raven continues to ask for corn. Jeor goes into a nearby sack and fetches food for his pet. The raven eats from his palm. Then Jeor moves it to his shoulder. Mormont's raven tilts its head to one side. Jon Snow notices its eyes glittering. During the feeding process, Jeor converses with Jon Snow. As the conversation turns to their search for the missing Benjen Stark, the raven gives a cackling scream. Jon Snow has some doubts about the search, and Jeor voices them for him. What if Benjen is already dead? The raven starts repeating the last word of Jeor: Dead. Its voice grows louder and more shrill. Jeor strokes the feathers of his pet. He then dismisses Jon and prepares to go to sleep. [13]

In the Fist, a warhorn sounds during the night. Several sleeping men rise in alarm. But there is only a single blow of the horn, the signal that other Sworn Brothers are approaching their position. Jeor wakes up and asks for confirmation. The raven already perches on his shoulder. The bird seems miserable, with fluffed feathers and a silence unusual for it. Probably the result of the sudden wake up call. [14] Jeor is pleased to be receiving the long-expected reinforcements from the Shadow Tower. A group led by Qhorin Halfhand. Jon Snow leads Qhorin to Jeor, then goes to fetch a meal for the new arrival. He can still hear the voices of Jeor, Qhorin, and Mormont's raven coming from the tent. The voices are not loud enough for him to understand what they are saying. [14]

Qhorin reports that Mance Rayder is seeking something in the high cold places, probably something needed for his plans. The raven lifts its head and screams. [14] Qhorin soon suggests a scouting mission, involving about 15 men. A mission to find out what waits for them in the mountains. The raven repeats one of his words: Waits. [14] Qhorin considers it likely that the entire force of the Great Ranging might die in combat. But considers this sacrifice worthwhile, as they could buy much needed time for the rest of the Watch. The raven paces across Jeor's shoulders and keeps repeating one word: Die. [14]

A Storm of Swords

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. [15]

In the Fist of the First Men, a number of disgruntled members of the Night's Watch conspire against Jeor Mormont. Among them is 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. [16] 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. [16]

Jeor calls off the Watch's search for a 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. [16] 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. [16]

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. [16] 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. [16] Later at night, a heavy snowfall begins and the Others arrive. The Battle of the Fist of the First Men takes place. [16]

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. [15] 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. [15]

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. [15] 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. [15]

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. Tyrion reminisces of Jeor and Mormont's raven. He recalls being rather fond of Jeor. [17] 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. [17]

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. [18] 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: "Tarly". Samwell nervously acts if he is calling him. The raven starts repeating his question: Me? [18]

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. [18] 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. [18] 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 oats, corn, and 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. [18]

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". [18]

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. [18] 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. [18]

Jon Snow enters Mole's Town, alerting the local population that there are 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. [19] Grenn later names some of the other survivors: Dywen, Donnel Hill, Ulmer, Left Hand Lew, and Garth Greyfeather. [19]

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. [5]

Samwell claims to recognize this bird, proclaiming it to be Mormont's raven. Alliser Thorne laughs, claiming that Samwell is truing to fool them. He is certain that this one of several ravens the younger man has trained to say Snow. While Mormont's raven had a richer vocabulary. [5] 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 indeed the familiar raven. And helps decide the election in favor of Jon. [5]

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. [5]

A Feast for Crows

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. [20] 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. [20]

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. [20] 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. [20]

A Dance with Dragons

When Jeor Mormont died (see above), the reportedly ate the face of his corpse. Acting as a regular Scavenger. Jon Snow contemplates this information on the pet, but does not mention his source on the subject. [6] [21]

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. [6] 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. [6]

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 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. [6] More seriously, Eddison reports that two more 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. [6] 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. [6] Jon wonders whether the raven views him as its thrall. [6] [22]

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 and the abomination Gilly pleas with him: "No. Please, no". The raven picks up the word and screams: No. [23] Jon threatens Gilly. Proclaiming that when Melisandre burns the Prince, Gilly's son will die as well. The raven starts repeating: Die. [23] [24] 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. [23]

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. [25] [26]

The Big Drunkard, a centuries-old 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 weirwoods. Further south, a second face is discovered carved on an 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. [27] A third face is discovered carved on oak tree, standing just outside Mole's Town. [27]

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. [27] 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. [27] 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. [27]

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. [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. [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. [28]

Just before the dawn, Jon parts with Val. She is heading north of the Wall, , tasked with locating and contacting Tormund Giantsbane for him. Jon then returns to his chambers, where Eddison serves him breakfast. Mormont's raven claims the 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. [29] 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. [29] 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. [29]

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. [29] 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 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. [29] 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. [29] 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 wights and then dismisses his officers. [29]

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. [30] 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. [30]

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. [30]

Jon and 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. [31] 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. [31]

Jon has a dream where he defends the Wall, facing the Others and their wights. He faces various people from his past. [32] [33] 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. [32] It is still the time just before the dawn, the "hour of the wolf". [32] 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. [32]

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. [34]

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. [34]

References and Notes

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 21, Tyrion III.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 6, Jon I.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 60, Jon VIII.
  4. 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.
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 79, Jon XII.
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7 6.8 6.9 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 3, Jon I.
  7. A Game of Thrones, Chapter 19, Jon III.
  8. A Game of Thrones, Chapter 48, Jon VI.
  9. 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 52, Jon VII.
  10. 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 70, Jon IX.
  11. 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 13, Jon II.
  12. 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3 12.4 12.5 12.6 12.7 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 23, Jon III.
  13. 13.0 13.1 13.2 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 34, Jon IV.
  14. 14.0 14.1 14.2 14.3 14.4 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 43, Jon V.
  15. 15.0 15.1 15.2 15.3 15.4 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 18, Samwell I.
  16. 16.0 16.1 16.2 16.3 16.4 16.5 16.6 A Storm of Swords, Prologue.
  17. 17.0 17.1 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 32, Tyrion IV.
  18. 18.0 18.1 18.2 18.3 18.4 18.5 18.6 18.7 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 33, Samwell II.
  19. 19.0 19.1 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 48, Jon VI.
  20. 20.0 20.1 20.2 20.3 A Feast for Crows, Chapter 5, Samwell I.
  21. 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.
  22. The events of aDwD, Chapter 3 precede those of aFfC, Chapter 5.
  23. 23.0 23.1 23.2 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 7, Jon II.
  24. 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.
  25. A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 10, Jon III.
  26. Jon does not think of Ghost as a friend. Considering the direwolf a part of his self.
  27. 27.0 27.1 27.2 27.3 27.4 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 21, Jon V.
  28. 28.0 28.1 28.2 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 28, Jon VI.
  29. 29.0 29.1 29.2 29.3 29.4 29.5 29.6 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 39, Jon VIII.
  30. 30.0 30.1 30.2 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 44, Jon IX.
  31. 31.0 31.1 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 53, Jon XI.
  32. 32.0 32.1 32.2 32.3 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 58, Jon XII.
  33. The persons depicted include the eagle of Orell, Ygritte, Donal Noye, Dick Follard, Qhorin Halfhand, and Robb Stark.
  34. 34.0 34.1 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 69, Jon XIII.