### 132

Suddenly, above you, there is a loud rattling noise followed by the grating squeal of iron on stone. You spin around to look at the staircase by which you entered and, to your horror, you see a heavy portcullis come crashing down to seal off the exit. Then there is another sound: the hiss of escaping air. Your senses detect it is coming from around the great portal and, as it slowly begins to open, you reach for your weapons in readiness to defend your life.

If you possess a Bow and an Arrow and wish to use them, turn to 221.

If you do not possess a Bow, or choose not to use it, you can unsheathe a hand weapon instead by turning to 325.

Text copyright © 1990 Joe Dever.
Illustrations copyright © 1990 Brian Williams.