36. Barrel's Warhammer

In the halls of the North Tower deep in the Northern Territory of Amphibia whispers and murmurs echoed around the room. For the first time in many generations the Toad Lords had agreed to a meeting. A meeting that Grime and Sasha had called for weeks ago. There were representatives from every major area of Amphibia with the Toad Lords themselves seated on the high seats near the center of the chamber. No one seemed to know why or for what purpose this meeting had been called, so there was much speculation as to why.

"So the disgraced Captain Grime called this council meeting," said Captain Bufo, "does anyone have any idea why?"

"Maybe he wants to be surrounded by friends when he gets arrested," speculated Beatrix, "what do you think Aldo?"

The toad identified as Aldo didn't move, a bug crawled across his face giving the appearance that he was dead.

"Uh is he asleep or dead?" asked Bufo.

"Definitely smells dead," replied Beatrix, causing Bufo to laugh at her comment. The two continued laughing as a face peaked through the curtain from the stage. Braddock came back behind the curtain, worried by what she saw.

"Not exactly a welcoming crowd," she said to her associates.

Sasha wasn't perturbed by this news, "don't worry once they see our idea they'll be begging to be a part of it."

"Are you sure this idea is going to go over well?" asked Gustav, "I've studied Toad History, the Toads haven't united in centuries, we know that uniting like this would send a clear message to Andrias. If he hears that we've united he's going to start preparing for war."

"Yeah, well I doubt he could actually beat us," said Sasha, "besides, toads like ruling things, why hasn't anyone ever thought about just taking over Amphibia and kicking that old newt out?"

"The Toad Lords were given dominion to collect taxes over the four areas of Amphibia," explained Grime, "that was done to satiate us, Newtopia gave us permission to rule over the frogs and take what we wanted so long as Newtopia got their cut. All in all that system wasn't so bad, and for a long time we were satisfied."

"And none of the Toad Lords ever thought that was just small potatoes?" asked Sasaha indignantly.

"I guess not," said Grime, he turned to look at Gustav, "didn't realize you actually knew your history boy."

"I like reading," answered Gustav, "though I will say, one other reason why the Toads never attempted to overthrow Newtopia is because you only get one shot to overthrow the king if it failed, well let's just say the Toads would have it a lot worse. Just want to remind you Sasha that you're asking the Toads to risk a lot for your plan. And I'm not sure that T-shirts are going to convince anyone." Gustav held up one of the custom T-shirts Sasaha had made that said "Toads Rule" on it.

"Well it's a good thing I have a last touch for our outfits then," said Percy running to his bag and grabbing some paint. He ran back and painted a single eyes on each one of their cloaks.

"Now we really are a team," he said in triumph.

"One eye, I see what you did there," said Grime.

"Nice one Perce," added Sasha, she motioned for all of them to put their hands together, "now come on everyone, let's get out there and impress some Toads, or we die!"

"Hey before we go out there, I have one more piece of information that might help your cause if Bufo gives you trouble," said Gustav.

"Dang it Beatrix what's your brother waiting for?" asked Bufo annoyed. Just as he finished talking the stage went dark and the curtain opened. Percy, Gustav, and Sasha appearing on stage, Percy beginning to dance. Then Grime swung on a rope onto the stage and landed on a plank in the stage launching Gustav up in the air. As he was up he fired the T-shirt cannon he was holding firing T-shirts into the crowd, a few managing to be worn by some of the Toads. Finally Grime began to speak.

"My fellow toads, for years we have kept the kingdom's servants in line, but are we not servants ourselves? I propose a future where toads overthrow King Andrias and take our rightful place as rulers of all Amphibia!"

Sasha came up to where Grime was standing, "Psss drop the mic," she whispered into his ear. Grime complied causing a fair bit of feedback.

If Sasha expected a response from the toads she didn't get one. The entire hall was silent, finally Bufo stood up and spoke.

"You all took a huge risk in coming here to gain support for your rebellion," he began.

"And it payed off," finished Beatrix, "we frogging love it! Nicely done Grimothy!"

Sasha, Braddock, Percy and Gustav all turned to face Grime who's face had turned bright red.

"No way," began Sasaha in a playful teasing manner, "is your real name?"

"We're not talking about this," interrupted Grime putting his hands up.

"So tell us who's leading this revolution?" asked Bufo.

"I was thinking us?" said Grime motioning to those gathered on the stage. Bufo and Beatrix whispered to each other before replying.

"Yeah I don't think so," said Bufo, "if anyone is leading this it should be me!" he said proudly standing up. Gustav came up to Grime and whispered something into his ear.

"Oh you'd like that wouldn't you Bufo," said Grime in an accusing manner, "because from what I hear you tried to take over a town in my territory!"

The entire hall let out a collective gasp at this! All eyes turning to Bufo.

"What how could you possibly-" he began before his eyes fell on Gustav, "oh please you're not really going to take the word of a runt are you?" he said to the other toads gathered in the hall.

"I was there!" said Gustav, "and I know there are other toads in this room who were there too as part of Bufo's army!" his eyes moving around the room, "the toads have a set of ancient laws governing the division of territory. Bufo has broken those laws by attempting to add more towns into his own fiefdom."

"Well seeing as you're here calling for rebellion against the king, I'd say whatever laws I broke by invading Tadpole Pond are moot," answered Bufo smugly, he realized only a second too late though that he had just outed himself. Bufo looked around the room nervously suddenly aware of how many eyes were on him. Worst of all Aldo, the Lord of the North finally moved from where he was seated and spoke. His form moved slowly and he spoke in a slow, strained voice.

"Bufo…." he said, "you…know….the….rules. No Toad Lord.…is supposed….to invade….another's territory!"

"In my defense!" said Bufo quickly and desperately, "I didn't invade Grime's territory. Invading implies that I took my army and fought Grime for control of Tadpole Pond, but that's not what happened at all. I heard about the Southern Tower falling and that Grime had fled to parts unknown. I thought he was gone, so I decided to simply take a new town that was on my border anyway. I wouldn't call it an invasion so much as an….annexation.

"Bufo," said Beatrix in a rather serious tone, "you know that Newtopia would have eventually appointed a new Lord to rule over the South. In fact if I'm not mistaken they have done that, from what I hear Bog is now the new Captain of the Southern Territory."

"Bog!" yelled Grime in disgust, "ugghh of all possible Toads why him?"

"Well as long we're bringing everyone's sins into the open can we talk about how Grime and his hummus have unleashed Uodeela on the Toads," yelled Bufo.

"Sorry what?" asked Sasha not sure about what she had heard.

"Oh don't play dumb," accused Bufo, "thanks to you two Uodeela is wandering around Amphibia stuck in her Red Heron form. She attacked my Tower last week, we only barely managed to drive her off."

"She's attacked my tower too," added Beatrix, "seems that when she's stuck In that form she only runs on instinct, my guess is her hatred for us is the only thing driving her."

"You should be thanking us then," replied Grime, "Uodeela's been a thorn in all our sides for too long, but we were the ones who took care of her. The rest of you were too cowardly to do anything, at least now she isn't actively leading a rebellion against us."

"Oh yeah having her wandering around as a mindless beast is so much better Grimothy," sneered Beatrix sarcastically.

"Hey can we focus here!" said Sasha trying to get everyone's attention, "Let's stop slinging blame for Uodeela around and let's also forget about whatever laws Bufo broke and get back to the task at hand. In fact Grime here is willing to forgive Bufo for trying to take one his towns if you let us lead this rebellion!"

"I am?" said Grime looking at Sasha in confusion. Sasha nudged him in the stomach.

"Uh I mean yes I am willing to drop the matter if you let us lead," said Grime through gritted teeth.

"Look we like your vision," said Bufo, "but no Toad is going to follow the command of a fugitive and his hummus."

"Humans," corrected Sasha, "we're called humans."

"Bufo's right," added Beatrix, "just because King Andrias is working with a couple of hummuses doesn't mean us toads will go for it."

"Wait other humans?" said Sasha realization dawning on her, "they must be talking about Anne, Luz and Marcy. I don't believe it they're working together! Without me!"

"And apparently aiding the crown," added Grime.

"In fact this whole thing is beginning to sound too risky," said Bufo, "guards arrest them!"

Two toad guards moved in to arrest Sasha and her entourage, but Sasha made an enraged yelled and moved forward against them, quickly disarming them. Sasha stood up on the body of one of the defeated guards pointing at Bufo and Beatrix.

"Listen here you buffoons," she said angrily, "what's it going to take to prove that you should follow us?"

Again Aldo moved from where he was seated, again he spoke in a slow strained voice, "Barrel's Warhammer."

"Barrel's hammer?" asked Bufo in confusion, "you've finally gone senile Aldo."

"Yeah that's a suicide mission," agreed Beatrix.

Aldo continued speaking, "it is said that the one who wields the hammer is the true leader of all toads. It is the one thing, the only thing that will prove we should follow you."

"Great done!" excalimed Sasha, "you'll have it in your crypt keeper hands by morning."

Both Bufo and Beatrix laughed at this, Bufo finally speaking, "no toad has ever gone after the hammer and made it back alive. This I've got to see!"

A few hours later Sasha and her group had left the tower and were sailing on an old raft out into the swamp. Sasha adjusted the sail on the raft before casually jumping down.

"So what's this hammer and why are ya'll so scared of it?" she asked.

"A little late to be asking don't you think," said Grime looking up from the map he was reading.

"Yeah Sasha," added Gustav, "I mean you already volunteered us to go and get the hammer without even asking if that's what we wanted."

"I mean isn't this what you want?" asked Sasha, "we want to be able to get the other towers to support our rebellion, and the only way for us to do that is to get this hammer."

"Yeah but still you agreed to it without asking us," said Gustav, "we could have talked about it amongst ourselves first."

"If you don't want to come then no one's stopping you," sneered Grime, "in case you've forgotten runt! I don't particularly like you being here."

"Hey, hey that's enough of that," said Sasha coming to Gustav's defense, "in case you forgot Grime your entire army abandoned us. We're lucky these three decided to stay."

"Almost feels a little too lucky if you ask me," said Grime giving Gustav the stink eye, "one minute you're fighting against Bog at Tadpole Pond, and the next suddenly you're with us saying you actually want to try and be a real Toad?"

"If you have something you want to say to me then say it," challenged Gustav.

Grime paused for a bit before saying, "well I can't deny I do like this new attitude of yours. Even so, I find it suspicious that you suddenly wanted to change your tune when as far as I can remember you've always hated being a toad."

"I never hated being a toad," said Gustav emphatically, "and even now I still don't. I just wondered if us having to rule over and oppress the frogs was really necessary, that's all."

"Well to answer your question, yes, yes it is necessary," said Grime, "we're stronger then they are and the strong are meant to rule over the weak. Once we have control over all of Amphibia we'll be able to rule over not only the frogs but the newts too. We can collect taxes from both species, and we won't have to give Newtopia their cut anymore so that will mean more wealth for us."

"I see," said Gustav in a sad somber tone.

"See it's a good thing you decided to join up with us Gus," said Sasha, "now you'll get to be on the winning side."

"Wait what did you call me?" asked Gustav.

"Gus," answered Sasha, "in my world it's short for Gustav, it's a nickname, oh I made a rhyme, us and Gus."

"Huh….Gus, I kind of like it," said Gustav.

"Then Gus it is," said Sasha putting a hand on his shoulder, "so hey Gus seeing as you read so much why don't you tell me about this hammer?"

"Oh right," said Gustav, "So the hammer is the weapon of the legendary toad warrior Barrel the Brave."

"Barrel gave his life defending a helpless village from a terrifying beast," added Braddock.

"Legend has it that this same beast guards his hammer to this very day," Percy grabbed onto Braddock and his son while talking.

"Enough whimpering," yelled Grime coming through where the three toads were gathered and pushing them aside, "we don't even know if this tadpole tale is real."

"We know Barrel is real," said Gustav, "he's talked about in many books and has stories, and songs written about him. What we don't know is how much of his exploits are true, the story about him saving this village is one of those stories that's been passed down for ages. But there are always small details that seem to change each time the story is told, so I doubt anyone alive today knows what really happened."

"Aldo seems to think it's real," said Sasha, "and considering how old he looks I'd say he might have known Barrel, or at least heard the original story."

"That or he knows for a fact the hammer isn't real and is just sending us on a wild goose case to get rid of us," said Gustav.

"But if it is real, then that means the terrifying monster is real too," said Percy shivering with fright.

"And it probably won't let us just take the hammer away from it," added Braddock also shaking. Sasha noticed how both Percy and Braddock were.

"Listen if things get to wild out here, just give me a signal and I'll call the whole thing off," she said to a still shaking Percy and Braddock

"A signal, what kind of signal?" asked Percy.

"Hmm, how about this? Do your best kawaii pose," said Sasha, "it's something we do for photos in my world, like this." Sasha demonstrated the pose giving a turn and winking towards the toads.

"Oh I remember Luz doing something like that when she had us take a group picture after one of our performances," said Gustav.

"What's a photo?" asked Braddock.

"Just try it," said Sasha, "and hey Gus why don't you give it a try too?"

Braddock, Percy, and Gustav looked at each other for a second before giving the kawaii pose a try. They both spun around and managed to strike the pose. They held it for a second before realizing how they looked and all of them began to laugh.

"Huh that was actually kind of fun," said Gustav.

"No giggling!" yelled Grime, "we're here."

The group looked around the swamp they had sailed into. The water was dark red, almost like blood and there were a great many strange and terrible looking creatures. Grime tied their raft to a spot near some land and the group got off heading deeper into the swamp.

"Hey Sasha thanks for that," said Gustav, "you know forgive me for saying this, but I like you more when you're nice like this. I think it suits you better than being super aggressive all the time."

Gustav's comment caught Sasha off guard, but only for a moment, "hey…uh thanks Gus, but let's get back to the task at hand."

"I mean I appreciate you giving us an out," said Braddock.

"Me too," said Percy, "I feel better already!"

For a moment Sasha felt a warm feeling in her heart at hearing Percy say that, though right after that she heard a voice in her head.

Your aggression gives you strength, it said, it would be foolish not to tap into it when you need it most, and I think you may need your strength to retrieve this weapon.

Sasha didn't say anything in response to her thoughts, trying instead to focus on getting the hammer. She looked back at the map she was holding

"According to the map Aldo gave us, we should be close to where the hammer was last seen."

"This is insane!" exclaimed Grime, "even if it exists we'll never find it."

"Found it!" said Percy pointing to a clearing just up ahead.

Grime ran up to where the hammer was, "I don't believe it, it's real! Our ticket to revolution!"

"If this hammer is real then….I wonder could other legendary weapons be real too?" thought Gustav, "could the Masamune exist?"

"The sword that was used by Glenn," said Grime, "hmmm maybe we should consider looking for it as well, it would go great with this hammer!"

"Best part is there's no beast in sight!" said Percy, "could life actually be this easy for a change?"

"Quick Grimesy, yank that thing out already," said Sasha.

Grime moved towards the hammer placing his hands on it, he tried to pull it out a few times, only for it not to work.

"Uh little help here," he asked.

"Okay gang on three," began Sasha as Percy, Gustav, and Braddock joined Grime in attempting to pull out the hammer, "One, two, three." The group managed to budge the hammer ever so slightly, though as they did they heard a rumbling sound around them.

"The b-b-beast," stuttered Percy.

"Look alive," said Grime drawing his sword, "who knows where it could come from." though right as he said this the ground under them began to move violently the ground seemed to rise up out of the water. Sasha and the toads fell into the swamp and quickly swam over to the raft. As the group climbed up onto the raft the looked back and saw the beast rise up from the swamp. When it had fully risen out of the swamp they could see that it was a giant snake! It began to let out a terrible hiss that caused Sasha and Gustav to cover their ears."

"He, he, what a great way to go!" exclaimed Grime looking at the snake.

Sasha looked over to Percy and Braddock and saw that they were both desperately trying to do the kawaii pose, signaling that they wanted out. Sasha looked between Percy and Braddock and the hammer still stuck in the giant snake, she was about to say something when Gustav spoke.

"Hey Sasha go ahead, I'll get my dad and Braddock out of here."

"Are you sure?" she asked.

"Yeah no worries," said Gustav coming up to where Percy and Braddock were, "come on guys! We're getting out of here!"

With that Percy and Braddock grabbed onto Gustav, Gustav used his tongue to latch onto a tree pulling the three of them off the raft. As soon as they were gone Sasha motioned for Grime to steer the raft closer to the snake.

"We need to get it to attack us," said Sasha.

"Well I doubt that will be a problem," answered Grime, "also you were fine just letting Percy and Braddock leave?"

"Gus is with them, they'll be fine," answered Sasha.

"But will we be fine?" asked Grime as he looked up once more at the giant snake.

"I'm sorry son, but I just got scared," said Percy to Gustav.

"It's okay I get it, it's a good thing I was there. If I wasn't who knows maybe Sasha would have forced you to keep going on her quest to get the hammer," said Gustav.

"Thanks for helping us get away," said Braddock, "I don't know what we would have done without you."

At that moment a roar was heard from behind them, the three looked back to see Grime and Sasha atop the giant snake still struggling to pull out the hammer.

"You think they have that under control?" asked Braddock.

"I sure hope so," said Gustav, "but I'm starting to get the impression that Sasha is someone who won't give up not matter what. You saw how she was trying to get support from the other towers."

"She really is something," said Braddock, "I can see why Emmanuel considers her the bigger threat. Even so I almost feel bad that we're spying on her, I actually kind of like her."

"She was the first one to really appreciate my act," said Percy.

"I know what you mean, honestly Sasha can be nice when she isn't trying to burn a town to the ground. But we all know that if Sasha helps the toads take over Newtopia things will only get worse for the other species. We almost know everything we need to know," said Gustav, "once we figure out the plan for how they're going to invade Newtopia I can head back and let the resistance army know."

"Hey Gustav, you think maybe there's a chance that if Sasha and Grime took over Newtopia maybe we could convince them to be nicer to the other species?" asked Braddock.

"Somehow I doubt it," answered Gustav, "as nice as Sasha can be, I don't think she could be made to listen to reason. And maybe it's my imagination but I could have sworn I've heard her talk to herself a few times."

"Guys look!" exclaimed Percy pointing, Gustav and Braddock turned to see Sasha and Grime controlling the beast. It seemed as though they were steering it right towards the tower.

"Whoa Sasha is crazy, but I think it might work!" said Gustav, "come on let's head back to the tower!"

By the time Gustav, Percy, and Braddock had arrived at the tower the other toads were cheering Sasha's success! She noticed the trio return and ran up to greet them.

"Hey guys!" she said giving all three toads a hug, "we did it! Aldo here just pledged the support of all the towers for our revolution!"

"Way to go Sasha!" said Gustav giving her a thumbs up, "so what's the plan?"

At this point Sasha's face fell as she looked into Gustav's eyes, she turned from him to the other Toad Lords who marched over to the group, Aldo in particular starring hard at Gustav.

"I'm afraid….you won't be….a part of this…..Gustav," he said again in his slow manner of speech.

"Yeah did ya think we were all stupid then runt?" asked Beatrix.

"What?! What are you talking about?" asked Gustav in surprise.

"She's talking about your insubordination at Tadpole Pond," said Bufo seriously, "what did you think we wouldn't find out about the fact that you took up arms against your fellow toads?"

"Grime let me join up with him knowing about that," said Gustav in a firm voice.

"Yeah, well I never fully trusted you either," said Grime, "I always thought it was a little suspicious how you suddenly wanted to become a real toad after that business at Tadpole Pond. And I only let you and the others join because I literally had no other soldiers, but now I have the support of all the towers so I really don't need you."

"Wait what about us Grime?" asked Percy.

"Yeah same thing, Percy, neither you or Braddock are what we would call "elite" warriors," said Grime, "I think we both know that the two of you are not cut out for this."

"I told you about what Bufo did," protested Gustav.

"And that was very helpful," said Grime, "but this isn't my decision, Bufo, Aldo, and Beatrix all think you're too much of a liability. And honestly you should be grateful they aren't asking for a more severe punishment."

Aldo moved forward as Grime said that last bit, looking straight into Gustav's eyes, "toads who turn traitor….are normally…..executed!" His statement causing Gustav to flinch.

"But we're feeling generous today," said Beatrix, "so instead we'll just banish you. Now you can be a disgrace wherever you want!"

"Wait this isn't fair!" said Percy finally speaking up, "we stuck with Grime when the rest of his army abandoned him, plus we helped get the hammer-"

"Did you really?" asked Bufo, "because I heard the three of you jumped ship once things got too intense. I suppose I shouldn't be surprised though. Guess it runs in the family."

"Sasha please say something," said Gustav in a pleading voice to Sasha. Sasha looked into his eyes, thinking hard before responding.

You don't need them, said a voice in her head, they'll only slow you down.

Yeah, she thought, Percy and Braddock aren't really the best fighters.

You'll need only the strongest toads with you in order to stop that fool's plans, said the voice.

"Sorry Gus," said Sasha, turning away so she wouldn't have to look Gustav in the eye, "there's nothing I can do. The other Toad Lords have already decided."

"You heard the lass," said Beatrix, "best be on your way boy before we change our minds, traitor." That comment was enough to finally set off Gustav.

"You know what," he began marching towards the Toad Lords and speaking right in their faces, "all my life whether it was you, or Bog or Fens, all my life you and all the other toads in charge did nothing but belittle and insult me. Always it was the same thing, "Gustav you're not a real toad," then Bog accuses me of being a "traitor" but I don't see how I can be a traitor when all my life you've done nothing but make me feel ashamed of who I am. You want to tell me I'm not a real toad but then you want to label me a "traitor" for fighting against you? I don't see how I can be a "traitor" to the Toads when you've done nothing but make me feel ashamed and unwelcome my whole life. So fine! I guess I'll never be a "real toad" in your eyes and honestly….that's fine by me!"

With that Gustav turned and ran out of the tower, he was feeling a mess of emotions at that moment. On the one hand he never thought of himself as a real toad, but it still hurt to hear others keep saying it. On another hand he also knew that he was only with Sasha and Grime to spy on them, but even so he had come to genuinely like Sasha in the time he'd spent with her. And while a part of him had felt guilty for deceiving her, Gustav had tried to justify it, knowing that she was going to make things worse for other species if she and the Toads got control of Amphibia. His thoughts were interrupted as his father and Braddock ran over.

"Hey son you okay?" asked Percy.

Gustav hesitated before answering, "no, not really. I know what they said in there was nothing new, and yet it still hurt."

"I'm sorry it didn't work out," said Percy, "I know we were supposed to stay and learn the plan, but now we have nothing."

"We don't have nothing," countered Braddock, "we still know enough information to be useful, we know they're going to attack Newtopia, we should get back to Emmanuel and tell him."

"Yeah I guess you're right," said Gustav.

"You know even though we were supposed to be spying on her, I grew to like Sasha," said Braddock, "I wish she had stood up for us back there."

"Well what's done is done, let's go find Emmanuel and tell him what we know," said Percy, though before heading off he put his hand on his son and looked him in the eye, "don't worry Gustav, maybe neither of us are real toads, but heck that doesn't matter. You're still my son."

"Thanks dad!" said Gustav hugging his father, "now let's go!"

"You can't be serious!?" gasped Emmanuel in horror, "the Toad Lords have agreed to unite?"

"I'm afraid so," said Percy, "they're going to attack the capital."

"We were there," added Gustav, "Sasha managed to find Barrel's Warhammer and convince the toads to follow her."

"The Toad Lords haven't united like this in centuries," said Braddock, "if they mean to take Newtopia, they could very well do it with these numbers."

"We have no choice then," said Emmanuel stoically, "we have to march the resistance army to Newtopia and meet them in battle."

"Do you really think you can beat them?" asked Percy.

"Honestly I don't know, but if we let them take over Newtopia things will be a lot worse than they already are, so we have to stop them before that happens," said Emmanuel.

"Perhaps I can offer you some help," said a voice. The figure stepped forward to reveal Valeriana.

"Valeriana!" exclaimed Emmanuel running forward to greet her, "so good to see you. You came at just the right time. We are going to have to fight the toad army and we could really use your help."

"Yes I know, but sorry to say I cannot offer any direct assistance," said Valeriana.

"What?" said Emmanuel in surprise, "but you helped Uodeela and I start this rebellion, now you say you can't help."

"No what I said was I cannot offer any DIRECT assistance, but I can help you in other ways," said Valeriana, with that she pulled a rolled paper out of her cloak and handed it to Emmanuel, "this map will lead you to the temple where the Masamune is housed. I know you've been looking for that legendary sword and I feel you will soon need it."

"Wait the Masamune is real?" asked Percy.

"You just found out Barrel's Hammer was real," said Valeriana turning to the toads, "is It that hard to believe that the sword wielded by Glenn the Frog Knight is real?"

"Hmmm I guess when you put it that way no," said Braddock.

"If Grime and Sasha have the hammer on their side then I think having the sword on your side will even things out," said Valeriana.

"But it's said the sword can only be wielded by one who is worthy," said Gustav.

"Don't worry about that," answered Valeriana, "I have a feeling that someone you know is worthy of the blade and will be able to retrieve it from the temple."

"Can you tell us who?" asked Emmanuel.

"No I'm sorry that would be saying too much, there is only so much I can tell you in order to set things in motion," said Valeriana, "though that does remind me, Gustav I have something for you."

Gustav came up to where Valeriana was. The salamander reached into her cloak and pulled out a bottle of blue liquid, handing it to the toad.

"What is this?" asked Gustav intrigued at the substance.

"It's called Titian's Blood," said Valeriana, "it has many uses, though its main one is to amplify magic. I think you will have need of it in the future."

"When should I use it?" asked Gustav.

"Unfortunately I cannot say," answered Valeriana, "what I can say is to trust in yourself, and then I think you will know when the right time to use it will be."

As Valeriana spoke to Gustav Emmanuel eyed her carefully, when she was done, he asked to speak to her alone. All the others left leaving Emmanuel alone with Valeriana.

"Valeriana…." he began slowly, "you're not just an antiques dealer are you?"

Valeriana starred at the frog for several seconds before replying, "no I am not."

"I didn't think so, in fact I've wondered for awhile now if you knew more than you let on, did Uodeela know about you?" he asked.

"She knew some things, but even she didn't know everything about me," answered Valeriana.

"I don't know what exactly you are, but I can tell that you are much more powerful than you appear to be, and so that's why I have to ask, why can't you help us directly?"

Valeriana paused before replying, "listen, there are forces at work here beyond your comprehension. Did you think that you starting a rebellion against the toads was only for your benifit? No there is something much larger going on, something beyond you, me, or even Uodeela. I had foreseen that she would lose herself in her heron form, but I could not tell her of this nor act to prevent it, for then it would cause events to change."

"Are we really better off for not having her?" asked Emmanuel in an annoyed tone, "can you really say that it's better that she's not with us now when we need her most?"

"Emmanuel listen to me," said Valeriana in her most serious tone, "there is much you do not know about Amphibia's past, nor about what was foretold would happen for Amphibia's future. It may be hard to hear this, but trust me when I tell you I am on your side. There are however laws that prevent me from helping you directly. What is allowed is that I may help guide you in the right direction. That is why I helped you form the rebellion, that is why I am giving you the map to find the Masamune, that is why right now I am trying to explain things to you without telling you too much. I can guide you in the right direction, but I cannot fight your battles for you."

"So then we are destined to fight the toads at Newtopia," said Emmanuel.

"Yes you are, and that battle….I have foreseen many ways in which that battle can end," began Valeriana, "the future does not have one set path, it is like a river that breaks up into many different streams, thus many different futures are possible. But this battle that you will fight with the toads will not only determine your future, but other futures as well, not just here but in other worlds. And there are many ways it could end. This may not even be the last battle you have, there may be more in your future as well."

Emmanuel didn't say anything as he instead processed what Valeriana had told him.

"There is one more thing," she began, "this may be hard for you to hear, but I need you to trust me and listen to what I am about to tell you. I don't know what will happen after your battle in Newtopia, it is possible that you, Grime, or both will die in that battle. But if you should survive and if Grime survives too then when you next meet him you need to trust Grime, and work together with him."

"Valeriana, that….you ask too much," replied Emmanuel, "trust Grime, he killed my wife, I have nothing but hate for him. You would honestly ask me to work with him?"

"As I said, if you both survive the battle at Newtopia, then yes I would ask you to work with him, I know that is hard, but trust me. If you truly want a future where the frogs are no longer oppressed by the toads then you have to trust Grime if you should meet him after the battle at Newtopia." said Valeriana.

"I will take what you have said into consideration," began Emmanuel, "but I make no promises."

"All I can ask is that you listen to what I say, if that is all then I must be off. I wish you luck in the battles ahead, know that I will pray for your success," said Valeriana, with that she walked away into the darkness.

Sasha was sitting alone lost in thought she was still a little bothered by what had happened to Percy, Braddock, and Gustav. She had honestly wanted them to still be a part of their plan, especially Gustav as he had a personal connection to Luz, so she figured he would be the best bet in convincing Luz that she had changed. Still she tried not to think too much about it as she let her mind wander. She was interrupted from her thoughts by Grime calling to her.

"Ah there you are lieutenant, he said.

"So I'm kinda hoping when this thing is done and we have control over all of Newtopia I'll get a better title," said Sasha.

"Oh sure that can be arranged, what title would you like?" asked Grime.

"Eh not sure yet," said Sasha, "but seeing as I was Captain of the Cheer Squad I think something similar to Captain should be sufficient."

"Hmm very well, but before that we have to actually conquer the capital, and that's what I wanted to talk with you about," said Grime.

"I wanted a word with you too," said Beatrix stepping forward.

"Oh Beatrix, don't worry Grime and I will come up with a great plan. All we have to do is find Anne, Marcy, and Luz and convince them that I've turned over a new leaf, and they'll let me be a part of the group again. Then once Grime and I sneak into Newtopia we can gain access to the gate letting your armies inside," said Sasha outlining the plan.

"That's all well and good Sasha," began Beatrix, "but there's one thing you've forgotten about, your friend with the magic powers."

"Oh right Luz," said Sasha, having genuinely forgotten about her, "well….I think we can figure something out for her."

"We NEED to figure out how to handle her," said Beatrix emphatically, "from what I hear you would have successfully defeated Uodeela if it wasn't for her interference."

"Well….yeah I suppose you're right," admitted Sasha, "the thing is I have no idea where those powers she had came from."

"Me neither," said Grime, "but that's where Beatrix here comes in."

"Uh not sure I follow," said Sasha.

"Doesn't matter if we know the source of her powers or not, what matters is that we take care of her," said Beatrix, "and that's where I come in."

"Beatrix is the only one of the Toad Lords who was ever able to beat Uodeela in fight," explained Grime.

"That's right, I cut off both her legs leaving her helpless, and I would've finished her off if she hadn't blinded me," said Beatrix, "I've come closest to beating her so I think your human friend should be no problem."

"So when you say take care of…." said Sasha in a very hesitant voice, "do you mean?"

Beatrix made a throat-silting gesture to indicate what she meant.

Sasha's face fell at seeing this, "Uh I mean is that really necessary? I uh I think that might be a little extreme."

"Sasha you do realize that if we don't take care of Luz she could ruin our plans with those powers of hers," said Grime.

"Right….I hear what you're saying…." said Sasha, continuing to speak in a hesitant tone, "it's just….well maybe there's another way?"

"What's wrong lassie?" asked Beatrix in a mocking manner, "you're already gonna deceive your friends, is killing one of them too much for ya?

"I mean maybe I can think of some way to get rid of Luz so she won't be there when we spring out trap against the King?" pleaded Sasha.

"Uh-huh and what happens when Luz discovers your betrayal? The minute she sees the Toads taking over the city she's going to know something is up," countered Beatrix, "though actually I do like part of your plan. Once you get to Newtopia let's figure out a way to get Luz away from you, we'll have her taken to the Arena where I'll be waiting for her. That way I can focus on taking her out while you and Grime move forward with the rest of the plan."

Sasha began to sweat as she considered what might happen to Luz, as she was thinking it over a voice began to speak to her,

It's for the best this way, it said, Luz beat you last time, if you don't have a way to stop her then she'll beat you again and ruin the plan.

But…but….I….just don't know, said Sasha to her thoughts.

Look at it this way, with Luz out of the picture you can have Anne all to yourself, said the voice.

I….yeah….I suppose, but even still I didn't want to hurt Anne, Marcy, or Luz, I just want them to submit to me, and do what I say, said Sasha.

Luz already defied you at the dance, now she has powers and is the one thing that could ruin your takeover of Newtopia. If you don't deal with her the plan will fail for sure, and I need you to succeed, said the voice.

Wait! What do you mean YOU need me to succeed? Thought Sasha, I'm talking to myself!

"Lieutenant? Hello? Are you still there?" asked Grime snapping Sasha back to reality.

"What? Uh yeah I'm still here," said Sasha.

"You zoned out there for a while," said Beatrix, "everything okay?"

Sasha hesitated before responding, for the longest time she was sure that when she had her little conversations in her mind she was merely talking to her inner-self. She couldn't be the only person who did that right? Yet recently she was starting to become concerned that something was wrong. Was someone else talking to her? Sasha brushed this concern aside realizing that if she admitted it, it would make her sound crazy.

"No uh, everything's fine!" she said, "we'll figure out a way to get Luz to you Beatrix, but hey listen….I bet if you beat her up enough she'll stop fighting and hey maybe those powers she has don't last forever."

Beatrix looked hard into Sasha's eyes.

"Just….give her a chance to surrender," said Sasha in a pleading voice, "if she gives up after you've hurt her enough then please…."

Beatrix let out a sigh before finally saying, "no promises."