Rae's eyes widened in shock. "The Shadow King? Why does he have your sister?"
Prince Cyrus's jaw clenched. "Ariana possesses a unique gift – the ability to control the darkness within the Starlight Crystal."
Elara's eyes sparkled with understanding. "That's why the Shadow King wants her. He needs her power to fulfill his own prophecy."
Rae's grip on her magic tightened. "We have to get her back."
Prince Cyrus nodded resolutely. "I agree. But we'll need to be cautious. The Shadow King's powers are growing stronger by the day."
As they strategized, a faint whisper echoed in Rae's mind. "Rae... help me..." The voice was soft, but unmistakable – Ariana.
Rae's heart skipped a beat. "Guys, I think I just heard Ariana."
Prince Cyrus's eyes lit up with hope. "What did she say?"
Rae focused on the whisper. "She's asking for help... and I think I know where she is."
The group exchanged determined glances. They were ready to embark on a perilous rescue mission to save Ariana and shatter the Shadow King's hold on the kingdom.
Will they succeed? The journey continues...