Father Inire's Mirrors

Chapter XX Summary

Severian and Agia go on a side trip to the Jungle Garden, where Severian tells a story of little girls and Father Inire’s magic mirrors.

pietist - one who hopes to achieve direct contact with the Increate.

Nones - the ninth hour of the Roman day, but it means noon here.

columbine - a saucy, fantastically dressed young lady.

figurantes - female extras in a theatrical production; also, female spear carriers.

flagae - ethereal light creatures seen in mirrors of the Hall of Meaning. They have some link to the lower universe, and are perhaps the lowest life form there.