The King of the Wall

Mance took his place on the platform overlooking the yard. The Black Brothers huddled in a small group in the center, flanked by Thenns and Free Folk, menacing them occasionally with roughly crafted axes and spears.

Mance cleared his throat, motioned for silence, and began. "Brothers of the Night's Watch. The Long Night has come. The dead are coming for us all. Your Lord Commander is dead, your proudest rangers slaughtered. All your honor is gone. Join us. March South to Life or stay here to die. Its your choice. We will take all provisions we can carry and move out within the fortnight."

Mance motioned to the gathered wildlings and the groups dispersed. The remaining membrrs of the Watch had holed themselves up to a single wing of the keep, the wildlings camping around and in the rest of Castle Black.

Mance settled into the Lord Commander's chambers, pouring a large mug of ale and tossing another log on the roaring fire. An authoritative knock came from the open door as the red-bearded Tormund Giantsbane entered.

"So what is to be done now?" The warrior asked.