The heroes approached the Dragon's Spine, their footsteps echoing off the stone walls. The air grew hotter, the smell of sulfur and smoke filling their nostrils.
As they entered the mountain range, they saw the dragons. They were massive creatures, their scales glanging like steel in the fading light.
Lyra raised her staff, her eyes fixed on the dragons. "We come in peace," she said, her voice clear and strong.
The dragons regarded her, their eyes cold and calculating. One of them, a massive beast with scales as black as coal, stepped forward.
"You are not like the others," it said, its voice like thunder. "What do you seek here?"
Kael stepped forward, his eyes locked on the dragon's. "We seek the artifact," he said. "The one hidden in the heart of the mountain."
The dragon regarded him, its gaze piercing. "You are brave," it said. "But foolish. The artifact is not for the likes of you."
Thane growled, his hand on his sword. "We'll take that chance," he said.
The dragon laughed, a sound that shook the earth. "Very well," it said. "I will take you to the artifact. But be warned, you will not leave this place alive."
The heroes followed the dragon, their hearts pounding in their chests. They knew that they were walking into a trap, but they had no choice.
As they walked, they saw more dragons. They were in a vast cavern, the ceiling lost in darkness. The air was thick with the smell of smoke and fire.
The dragon led them to a great stone door, adorned with ancient carvings. "The artifact is within," it said. "But you will have to defeat the guardian to claim it."
The heroes nodded, their faces set with determination. They knew that they were ready for whatever lay ahead.