The engraving captivated me.

It wasn’t too showy, it was barely noticable at first glance. But its sharp curves, its simple shape, its firey eye, all entranced me.

I reached out trace the outline; it was threateningly warm to the touch, as if it were alive.

I couldn’t pull my eyes away from the glowing slit below its forehead. It glimmered radiently, acknowledging my presense.

It curled itself, wings protectively outstreached, over the red dial set into the wall. Its jewelbright bloodred color stood out against the velvety black. Its color, and the engraved dragon’s eye, entreated me to touch it, turn it, discover its secret.

I couldn’t help myself. I reaced out my hand.

Slowly, hesitantly, I turned it until it would no longer give to my hand.

I pushed it into the wall.

Tumblers rumbled, gears turned, locks clicked.

The door slid back behind the wall.

My curiosity could be contained no longer.

Despite my better judgement, I entered.