Chapter 3: Rise of the Toad
Meanwhile, far from Wartwood and Newtopia, Mahishah had just regained consciousness inside a cold, dark prison cell. Iron bars lined the stone walls, and armored toads marched outside. She had no idea where her friends were—only that she had been captured and brought to a place called Toad Tower.
A loud clank echoed as the cell door creaked open. A tall, gruff-looking toad with a scar over one eye stepped in. "So, you're the human causing a stir," he growled. "I'm General Grime."
Mahishah narrowed her eyes. "Let me out and I'll show you just how much of a stir I can really cause."
Intrigued, Grime ordered his guards to give her space. Mahishah was brought into the training yard, surrounded by elite toad soldiers. Without hesitation, she showed off her fighting skills—swift moves, sharp reflexes, and powerful kicks that sent even the toughest toads flying.
Grime crossed his arms, impressed. "Not bad for a human."
"I'm more than just a human," Mahishah said confidently. "You want your toads to listen to you? I can help you with that."
Grime raised a brow. "And how exactly would you do that?"
Mahishah stepped forward, speaking calmly but with purpose. "Use psychological tricks. Flatter them, mirror their body language, make them feel heard. If you want control, appeal to their emotions—make them believe they matter to you, and they'll follow you anywhere."
Grime looked at her for a moment, then chuckled. "You're clever… fine. From now on, you're not a prisoner. You're my lieutenant."
Mahishah smirked. "Good. Because I don't do cages."
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