### 323

As you approach the door, your Kai Sixth Sense tells you that the chamber beyond is empty. Confident in your natural ability, you twist the iron handle and push against the heavy portal. Silently it swings open on well-oiled hinges to reveal an empty circular chamber. A large iron-rimmed chute is set into its stone wall, and when you examine this opening, your stomach turns. Its surfaces are smeared with traces of human blood. You can hear the distant sound of rushing water and suddenly you realize that this chute leads directly to the river which flows beneath Duadon. From its condition and location you conclude that this chute has a single, sinister purpose: it is used by the gaolers of Skull-Tor for the swift disposal of prisoners who die in their charge.

As you turn to leave this grim chamber, you notice a Mace and a Small Shovel standing propped against the wall, close to the door. If you wish to take either of these items, record them on your Action Chart.

Upon leaving this chamber, you can examine the door which stands directly opposite by turning to 274.

Or you can go right and continue along the corridor by turning to 173.