27. Is He Dead?

Reflecting on duels, Severian considers the merits and demerits of the practice.

Dorcas, Agia, and Severian arrive at the Sanguinary Field and listen to the challengers call out to the challenged.  Severian instructs Agia to likewise announce his presence to the crowd.  Agia mocks Severian and he hits her.  Severian notices another avern and identifies his opponent, the armored soldier from the shop.