16. The Alzabo

Casdoe and Severian board up the windows of the house.  Agia stabs at Severian but he blocks her blow with a panel of shutters.  The storm outside intensifies and the house is cast in darkness but for a dim fire.

Between lightning strikes, Severian notices a figure’s shadow under the front door.  Outside, a child asks to be let in from the rain.  Casdoe instructs Severian and the others to climb to the loft and retract the ladder.  

Severian ignores Casdoe and approaches the door.  He hears low breathing and animal shuffling.  Severian asks Agia whether the unseen visitor has been sent by Hethor, but she denies his allegation.