A bitter wind howls through Castle Black, sending flurries of snow dancing through the structures. Jon stands at the balcony of the Lord Commander’s Quarters building. His arms crossed over his chest, watching the men of the Night’s Watch spar. His expression is unreadable—stern, distant. Suddenly, a man shouts from one of the towers and his attention turns to the voice.

“Traveler at the West Gate!”

A slight frown crosses Jon’s face. It’s not so often that travelers arrive at Castle Black. He watches as the gate in the west slowly opens, letting you in.