Sockets

Peeking through the cracks, I clearly saw the key I desperately needed. It glinted with rusty freedom. In addition, lying down like a guard dog, was the Koruk, all lean muscle and shiny scales.
I shut my eyes tightly. Every muscle went taut and strained, urging me to get away. But my mind, using the panic as a means of control, made me stay here. It was either find a--nonexistent-- different exit from this hell hole, or get the only key to freedom. I would have to sneak around it, then bash in its head.
Trembling violently, I gently eased the massive wooden door open. It practically screamed.
The heavy, clubbed tail lashed. The bone-masked face whipped like lightning. It stared with empty sockets. Rust-colored blood encrusted the holes.
Nothing. Moved.

Sweat poured down from every gland, the smell fear and body odor oozing off of me. I was dead.