20. Patrol

During a patrol, Severian and the mercenaries lay siege to an armored supply wagon driven by the man-beasts of the Autarch’s guard.  The coach is mired in soft ground and Guasacht speculates that it is filled with gold.  Vanquished Ascians and other enemies populate the valley.

Guasacht instructs Severian to negotiate with the creatures guarding the cache.  He does so and learns that the beasts wish to preserve their honor rather than save their lives.

Formulating a plan, Severian approaches a captive Ascian commander and requests assistance in dislodging the cart from the mud and fighting out of the valley.  The Ascian agrees.