Rae's heart still reeled from Elara's revelation. She couldn't shake the feeling of betrayal.
As night fell, Prince Cyrus found Rae on the castle's moonlit balcony, her thoughts consumed by Elara's secret.
"Rae, I'm sorry," Prince Cyrus said, his voice low and gentle. "I had no idea Elara felt this way."
Rae turned to him, her eyes searching. "Do you think it's true? Do I really have to die?"
Prince Cyrus's face twisted in anguish. "I won't let that happen. We'll find another way."
Without thinking, Rae stepped closer, her lips inches from Prince Cyrus's. The tension between them crackled like electricity. As Rae's lips touched Prince Cyrus's, the world around them melted away. The moonlight cast a silver glow on their skin, and the shadows seemed to whisper secrets.
Rae felt the rush of excitement, her heart pounding in her chest. Prince Cyrus's arms wrapped around her, pulling her closer.
The Shadow King's voice cut through the intimacy, shattering the moment.
"Ah-ah, Prince Cyrus," the Shadow King sneered. "I see you're distracted by the prophecy girl."
Rae's heart skipped a beat. The Shadow King's presence seemed to draw the air out of the atmosphere.
Prince Cyrus drew his sword, positioning himself between Rae and the Shadow King.
"You'll never have her," Prince Cyrus growled.
The Shadow King chuckled. "We'll see about that."
With a wave of his hand, dark creatures swarmed the balcony, surrounding Rae and Prince Cyrus.
"Enough!" he snarled, his dark magic dispelling the sparks.
Rae and Prince Cyrus ran, gasping for air. The Shadow King's minions closed in.
"We need to get out of here," Prince Cyrus whispered, grabbing Rae's hand.
They sprinted through the castle corridors, pursued by the Shadow King's dark creatures.
As they ran, Rae realized her magic was growing stronger, fueled by her emotions.
"I can take care of them," Rae said, determination burning within.
Prince Cyrus's eyes locked onto hers. "Together, we'll face whatever comes next."
With a nod, they charged forward, ready to face the Shadow King's minions.