Chapter 55: The Sting of Betrayal

As the steam cleared, Madison, Wald, and Astrid found themselves in a massive cavern. The walls glowed with an eerie red light, and the heat was almost unbearable. Sweat poured down their faces as they scanned their surroundings for any sign of danger.

"I don't like this," Astrid muttered, gripping her axe tightly. "It's too quiet."

Wald nodded in agreement. "Stay alert. The Mad King's tricks are never what they seem."

They moved forward cautiously, their footsteps echoing off the cavern walls. Madison clutched the Moonstone Scepter, its cool surface a stark contrast to the oppressive heat around them.

Suddenly, the ground beneath their feet began to tremble. Cracks appeared in the black glass floor, and jets of scalding steam burst forth.

"Watch out!" Madison yelled, diving to the side as a geyser erupted where she'd been standing moments before.