Content Warning: Chapter 62 depicts violent sexual assault.

Commander Mormont thanks Jon for saving him from the white walker by giving Jon a sword made of Valyrian steel. The sword, named Longclaw, has been in the Mormont family for centuries, but Commander Mormont fears his family line has ended in disgrace because of Jorah’s exile. Mormont had the pommel of the sword changed from a bear to a wolf. Mormont has also sent Thorne to King’s Landing with the white walker’s severed hand to hopefully convince Joffrey to send new recruits. Later, Jon talks with Maester Aemon about the vows of the Night’s Watch. Members of the Watch cannot take a wife and swear to defend the realm from “the darkness to the north” for life (651). Jon wishes to go to his father’s aid, but Aemon reminds Jon that his duty is to honor his vow and remain at the Wall. Aemon reveals that he is a Targaryen; he has served with the Night’s Watch for so long that many people have simply forgotten that he abdicated the Iron Throne to his younger brother. During Robert’s rebellion, Aemon was tempted to break his vows and travel south to fight for the Targaryens.