34. The Key to the Universe

Master Palaemon takes up the ruined fragments of Terminus Est and laments the destruction of the sword.  He offers to elevate Severian to a master of the Order of the Seekers for Truth and Penitence, but Severian deflects.

Severian announces his intention to return to the House Absolute.  Before departing, he is taken on a tour of the Matachin Tower.  Palaemon brings Severian to the cell that held Thecla.  The room is occupied by a prisoner, who pleads with the Autarch for his freedom.  Severian declines the petition but listens to several other inmates.  He pardons two that admit their guilt and attempts to heal one suffering insanity by touching her with the Claw.