Lamplight flickers before being encased in ice, the onslaught of the Mjilikae castle finally reaching its peak at the throne room's doors. Yssc shivers at the sight of the wall of ice, reflexively ducking back away from the cold even in his intangible projection. An amused snort sounds behind him as a massive white bear steps forward in the projection, teeth and spines covering his body. Olaichtyn watches with the smaller demon as a lone Mjilikae races down the castle hall, running as quickly away from the ice demon's host as their beast form's legs can carry them. The faun-like woman doesn't follow - no point in distracting herself from her goal. The wall of ice inches further forward down the hall as the woman stomps forward, a heavy layer of frost now caking to her hooves and hair.
"I have an idea for you," Yssc's projection muses at Olaichtyn. "A proposition, if you will. A negotiation."
"Spare me your joking and speak," Olaichtyn snarls, all of his teeth bared all at once.
"Don't kill the king," Yssc says, and Olaichtyn laughs. "Use him as bait and take him into Kortha. Take him to the Phoenix."
"What's your leverage, small one?" Olaichtyn leans in, showing just how small Yssc is. He could easily fit in the bear's mouth. Yssc composes himself quickly before continuing.
"Phoenix has just gotten a base in Kortha, and new power with it," Yssc explains quickly, as the bear snorts hot breath over him. "You like power. Go to Kortha and team up with Phoenix. If you take the king there, people on a rescue mission will follow not knowing what they're up against, and you both get to do whatever you want with 'em."
"I will consider your offer," Olaichtyn leans back, taking his mouth away from Yssc, and the smaller beast relaxes.
"However," Olaichtyn continues, causing Yssc's frills to flare, "I will send a message to the Phoenix."
The wall of frost now pressed against the door, and Olaichtyn's host threw the doors open.