"I promise, and I'm sorry Mistress Elspeth"
In truth James had little other option than to concede to the witches terms. Losing his voice again was unthinkable. He was relieved to be able to reveal his identity to Nicola now, even though her seeing him like this would be a little embarassing. He'd have to be careful what he said to her too, even away from Elspeth's presence. The sorceress was incredibly perceptive and Nicola wasn't the best at keeping a secret.
"I'm glad to hear it, my little toad" Elspeth smiled "Lets both try not to fall out again."
With that she picked James up and began walking upstairs where the cats had headed a little earlier.
"Let me do the talking and please don't contradict me." Elspeth whispered to James as they made their way up the wooden stairs "I may need to bend the truth a little so as not to worry your friend"
"Yes Mistress Elspeth"
At this point they reached Elspeth's bedroom where two cats were sat together looking rather cosy.
"A-hem!" Elspeth cleared her throat to get their attention. Nicola looked over and began trotting towards them.
"I have someone to reintroduce you to" Elspeth informed Nicola in her most dissarming tone as she lowered James to Nicola's new eye level.
"Hi, Nicola" the toad mumbled awkwardly to his friend.