As the heroes touched the Tree of Whispers, they felt a sudden jolt of energy. It was as if the tree was alive, and it was speaking to them.
"What did it say?" Eira asked, her voice filled with excitement.
Lyra's eyes were closed, her face tilted upwards. "It's telling us the location of the first artifact," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
"The artifact is hidden in the Dragon's Spine, a treacherous mountain range that stretches across the eastern edge of Eridoria," Kael said, his eyes snapping open.
Thane nodded, his face set in a determined expression. "I've fought dragons before," he said. "I'll lead the way."
The heroes began to prepare for their journey, gathering supplies and checking their gear. Lila worked to heal any wounds, her hands glowing with a soft, white light.
As they worked, the tree spoke again, its voice echoing in their minds.
"Beware the shadows," it said. "For in the darkness, treachery lurks."
The heroes exchanged nervous glances. They knew that they had a traitor among them, but they didn't know who it was.
Arin stood up, his eyes scanning the group. "We need to be careful," he said. "We can't trust anyone."
The heroes nodded, their faces set with determination. They knew that they had to work together if they were going to succeed.