Crown Prince Ryker stood outside Malakai's chambers, his hand hesitating over the door handle. He had always considered Malakai a close friend, despite their differing backgrounds and personalities.

As he entered the room, he was struck by the eerie atmosphere. Malakai's eyes seemed to bore into his soul, and his smile sent shivers down Ryker's spine.

"Ryker, what brings you here?" Malakai asked, his voice dripping with an unsettling warmth.

"I've come to talk to you about your recent actions, Malakai," Ryker said, his voice firm but laced with concern. "You're heading down a dark path, one from which there's no return."

Malakai's smile grew wider, his eyes glinting with amusement. "You worry too much, Ryker. I'm just trying to achieve my goals."

"Goals?" Ryker repeated, his brow furrowed. "You call seeking the Starlight Crystal and exploiting Sophia's powers 'goals'? Malakai, you're better than this."

Malakai's expression turned cold, his eyes flashing with anger. "You don't understand, Ryker. I'll do whatever it takes to bring back my family."   

Ryker's heart ached at the pain in Malakai's voice. He remembered the tragic loss of Malakai's family and the devastating impact it had on his friend.

"Malakai, I understand your pain, but this isn't the way," Ryker said, his voice softening. "You're not just risking your soul, but also the lives of innocent people."

Malakai's gaze faltered, and for a moment, Ryker saw a glimmer of the friend he once knew. But it was quickly extinguished, replaced by a determination that sent shivers down Ryker's spine.

"I'm willing to take that risk, Ryker," Malakai said, his voice firm. "And I won't let anyone stop me."

Ryker's heart sank, realizing that his friend was too far gone to be swayed by words alone. He knew that he had to act, to find a way to stop Malakai before it was too late.