Mark: So... what happens now? When we climb back up to the surface station, what do we put in our official report?
Sarah: Nothing. We write down that the thermal anomaly was caused by an underground geothermal pocket. End of story.
Mark: Sarah... this is the biggest scientific discovery of the century! Proof of living mythical creatures in North America! We could be famous!
Sarah: And what happens when the media, the government, and trophy hunters find out about this cave, Mark? What happens to these babies then?
Mark looked down at his feet, then back over at the nest where six newborn dragons were playing harmlessly near their mother's legs. He sighed heavily, tossing his shovel back into his kit bag.
Mark: They wouldn't last a month. People would try to capture them... or worse.
Sarah: Exactly. Some secrets are worth keeping. This sanctuary belongs to them, not to us.
The mother dragon stepped forward, her massive tail sweeping behind her as she approached the two humans. She nudged a small, shimmering piece of shed ice-crystal toward Sarah's boots.
Mother Dragon: Take this crystal. It is forged from the breath of my ancestors. It will never melt, and it will keep you warm in the harshest winter storms.
Sarah knelt down and carefully picked up the glowing blue crystal. It felt surprisingly smooth and warm against her gloved hand, radiating a gentle heat.
Sarah: Thank you... we will protect your secret with our lives.
Mother Dragon: The entrance above must be sealed so no other humans wander down by accident.
Mark: How are we going to climb out if you seal the top?
Mother Dragon: There is a hidden passage behind the main heat vent that leads out to the eastern ridge of the mountain. I will open it for you now.
She extended one massive wing, pointing toward a narrow tunnel behind the glowing thermal fissure. A soft, warm breeze blew out from the opening, indicating a clear, safe path to the surface.
Sarah: Thank you for trusting us.
Mother Dragon: Go now, before the sun sets above the peak. And remember your promise.
Mark: You have my word. Nobody is ever finding out about this cave.
Sarah and Mark secured their gear, taking one final look at the magical chamber. The tiny dragon babies were huddled together near the warm fissure, chirping softly as their mother settled over them to keep them safe and protected.
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