16. The Anchorite

Severian knocks on the door of the house but receives no answer.  As he lays down on the porch to sleep, Severian hears quickening footsteps from inside the building.  A bearded man named Ash opens the door and admits Severian.

Ash offers Severian food from his storeroom.  The men discuss the origins of the Ascians and their encroachment on the grounds of the Last House.  Severian discloses his mission to retrieve Ash before his home is overrun by the war.  Ash dismisses the danger.  Severian resolves to take Ash by force.