If I die, I die friendless and abandoned. What choice did that leave him, but to live? — George RR Martin

You should have learned by now, none of us get the things we want.

Knights may keep their truces when dealing with other knights, but they are not so careful of their honor when dealing with those whom they deem outlaw.

"Our honor means no more than our lives, so long as the realm is safe. Are you a man of the Night's Watch?"

"Yes, but–"

"There is no but. You are, or you are not."