Sometime mid-morning on a bright, beautiful day Glinda Thropp Upland died peacefully in the place she loved most in the world, snuggled in the green arms of the woman that had been her best friend, her constant companion and her gentle lover for more than sixty years. The last thing she felt was her love's soft kiss on her lips and caress on her cheek. And the last thing she heard as she fell asleep for the very last time was her precious Elphie's still clear and beautiful voice singing softly in her ear.
"I will always love you, I will always need you. Never will I leave you Lyndie my love…"
-x-
"Elphie?" Glinda said in a whisper as she tried to shift position with a great deal of effort.
"Easy my precious girl. Let me help you." Elphie said softly as she assisted Glinda to sit up and get comfortable.
"I was having the best dream." Glinda smiled as she settled into Elphie's arms.
"About the voyeur ducks." She said attempting to chuckle but coughed a little instead. A glass with a straw appeared in Elphie's hand and she held the straw to Glinda's lips.
"Sounds more like a nightmare to me." Elphie laughed lightly as Glinda sipped her favorite juice.
"You were such a baby about those cute little ducks." Glinda smiled.
"But that was a good day. We had such fun on that date. Walking, dancing, talking. Other very pleasant activities."
"It was a wonderful day. In spite of the ducks." Elphie smiled.
"Remember when they had babies? The babies liked you." Glinda said.
"I have no idea why." Elphie smiled.
"You are very likeable." Glinda smiled.
"Perhaps now, if we redefine likable. But I'm not sure it would apply back then." Elphie smiled.
"Well, likeability is in the eye of the beholder." Glinda said.
"Like everything else." Elphie smiled.
"I'm a little tired my love. I'm going to take a nap. Is that all right?" Glinda said as she shifted to look into Elphie's eyes. They held the gaze for only a few short beats but it communicated more than words ever could.
"Of course Lyndie. Sleep. It is okay." Elphie said. She had been as prepared as she could for the past few days, but even so, it took all her effort to will herself to feel nothing but strength and love.
"I love you my Elphie. Always and forever. Remember your promise." Glinda said, her voice barely a whisper.
"Don't worry about me my sweet. Just sleep." Elphie said then gave Glinda a lingering but soft kiss. Then she caressed her cheek and sang.
"I will always love you, I will always need you. Never will I leave you, Lyndie my love." She sang softly and continued to sing the storm song and caress Glinda's cheek, even after she knew that her love had taken her last breath. She knew when Lyndie fell asleep that it was for the last time, she just needed a little time to process the fact.
"Sleep safe my precious one. I love you." She said eventually as she slowly, carefully and reluctantly shifted so she could get out of their bed. She looked at her beautiful face, a face that barely betrayed her age, and placed a final soft kiss on her lips.
Elphie knew what she had to do and set about doing it. Plans had been put in place and she was going to attend to her part to the very last detail, to give her Lyndie what she wanted. She gathered what she needed and then bathed and changed her still fashion conscious love into the dress that she had selected, so the family could say goodbye. She fixed the bed then spent a few beats looking at her wife. There was a slight smile on her face and she did indeed look like she was just peacefully sleeping. With a sigh she could not suppress she reached into the nightstand drawer and took out the small, very old rag doll and slipped it into her pocket then turned to go. Stopping at the door she turned and looked at the woman who had been her whole life for more than sixty years. The reason she had a life at all.
"I remember my promise to you my precious. I'm going to try Lyndie, but I've never been as strong as you are. Although for you, I'll try to continue to live a life and be a mother and grandmother. I can only try." Elphie said then went to find Lyel. She found her and her husband in the solarium, sipping iced tea and chatting about an upcoming event at Jon's House. As soon as she walked into the room, Lyel looked at her carefully then sprang up from her seat and ran over to her, enveloping her in a hug.
"Oh Mama." Lyel said quietly, with a hitch in her voice as she gave her mother a fierce hug. Elphie had expected this because, like her mom, grandmother and great grandmother, her daughter was a powerful intuit.
"In her sleep Lyel, just like she wanted." Elphie said as she patted Lyel's back then released their embrace.
"Go say goodbye. You too Jotif." She added as she wiped tears off her daughter's cheek. She didn't even feel the sting anymore.
"Okay Mama." Lyel said taking a deep breath.
"I'll be in my workroom." Elphie said and Lyel looked at her and nodded, not surprised. There were plans in place and at this point they did not, by her mom's edict, include her mother.
"Oh Jottie." Lyel sobbed as her husband pulled her into a hug after Elphie left. She allowed herself a few beats for a good cry, in the comfort of her husband's arms before pulling away. She saw tears glistening in his eyes. He was crazy about her parents and the feeling was mutual.
"I thought I've been prepared for this for days now. But I'm not. I'm just not." She said.
"I'm not either. But we've got this Bug." Jotif said then gave Lyel a kiss.
"We know what needs to be done. What Mom wants done. And we can do it."
"You're right. We can. Mom knows we will grieve and be sad but she wants us to celebrate her life." Lyel said.
"Go spend a little private time with your mom. Things are going to happen pretty fast now." Jotif said.
"I'll go get them started."
"I can't get through this without you Jottie." Lyel sighed.
"And you do not have to." Jotif said then gave her a kiss; a loving hug then sent her on her way.
"Okay Mom, here we go. Everything will be just the way you wanted." He said as he started to clean up the coffee service before going to start the notifications.
X
Lyel walked slowly to her parent's suite, taking the long way so that she could collect her thoughts. She thought about when she found out that her mom was dying. It amazed her that had only been about three weeks ago. She had known something was up when her mom sent everyone, including the staff away for an extended weekend, and the broke no argument tone with which she had done it. She stopped walking as her thoughts slipped to the conversation she had with them when they all returned home, specifically when her mother and husband had left them alone.
"Mom, are you sure? I mean like really sure?"
"Yes Bug, really sure. And like I told you and Jot, It's not my choice of course but I've made peace with it and your mother has accepted the inevitable. She is far too logical and intelligent not to. But that doesn't mean that she is going to behave accordingly."
"Don't worry about mama…"
"I can't help it, I've been doing it for too many years. But I'm not overly so. Bug I want to…I need to make this as easy as possible on her. I have plans to make and I'm going to need your help."
Lyel chuckled slightly as she started on her way to her parent's suite again. Glinda Thropp Upland loved a good plan. And she was very good at creating them.
X
Elphie took the little rag doll from her pocket and reverently placed it on her worktable. She stared at it for a moment, thinking about when she had given it to her love long ago, when they were still in the dorms at Shiz and she was very ill. Elphie indulged in the memory of how she magically made it dance and walk, eliciting a smile from her precious Lyndie. Shaking off the encroaching memories and the feelings they brought Elphie quickly turned to her herb storage cabinets and prepared to repair and re-stuff the doll with cloves. Her thoughts only stayed narrowly focused for a short time before her mind wandered to the argument that had precipitated the long weekend they spent alone together after Glinda's last doctor's appointment. They were in her study, after returning from the doctor's office. She was pacing and Glinda was agitated and had even yelled.
"Lyndie, we'll get a second opinion. I'll research treatments."
"This is our fourth opinion and I've barely seen you in weeks because you've been researching treatments. It's enough Elphie. Enough. I'm tired of fighting this…"
"You can't just give up Lyndie. You can't just give in."
"Yes, I can. It's not like I chose this. Do you think I want to die now Elphie, to leave you and Bug and my family. I don't. I DON'T. But I believe everything I was told Elphie, and I know how I feel and I am NOT going to spend the limited time I have left with doctors or with you down in your workroom doing pointless research. I'm going to spend it with my family, enjoying my family/"
"Lyndie…"
"No. NO. Hear me good Elphaba. I'm the one who is dying and I am going to do it my way. Do you hear me? My way. And that means spending as much time with you as I can. And it starts this weekend. I'm sending Bug, Jotif and the rest to the Pertha Hills Resort and the staff wherever they want to go."
"I don't think that is a good idea."
"Maybe not. But I'm doing it. We are going to spend an extra long weekend alone together coming to terms with this however we need to. But we will. We have to. I have to. And so do you. And we will have to help the kids to do so. So you can do what you want in your workroom until the last person is out of this house. Then no more. So make it worthwhile."
"Glinda, I can't just…"
"Non-negotiable Elphie. Non-negotiable. I'm going to go tell Lyel to start packing for her spa weekend and talk to the staff. Then I'm taking a nap. I'd like you to join me, but I won't insist on it."
Elphie smiled in spite of herself as she pictured Glinda storming out. Then chuckled as she pictured her storming back in about forty-five minutes later and apologizing before she changed her mind and insisted that they nap together, or at least start to. She let herself remember that weekend, the bad, the good, all of it as her hands deftly, carefully and lovingly replaced the clove stuffing of the little doll.
X
"Mom." Lyel sighed as she walked hesitantly into her parent's bedroom. Glinda was dressed in one of her favorite dresses, white hair in a stylish bun, sitting up against pillows on the headboard, eyes closed and a slight smile on her face. She looked peaceful and content.
"I wasn't ready for this yet. Just one more talk, a little more advice." She said with a strangled chuckle as she sat down on the bed.
"Was that too much to ask?" She said trying to smile as she took her mom's hand. Instead the tears started to flow and she allowed herself to cry. Through her tears she expressed her anger at Glinda for leaving, calling her selfish and saying other childish things. After her tears had run their course, she apologized and thought about the talk they had when she Jotif and the kids returned from the spa. Her parents had told her and Jotif what was going on together and they talked about it for quite a while before her mom sent her mother and her husband out of the room.
"Bug, I need something from you."
"Anything Mom. Anything at all."
"Look after your mother."
"Of course mom. That goes without saying."
"I mean you need to really take care of her. She's going to shut down Lyel. She'll maintain while things are going on and family is here. And Uncle Manif will keep her in check. But when the dust settles she will just … It's not her time Bug. But she is going to forget that."
"You mean she will…try to take her own life?"
"No. No not at all. Not at all. That's not exactly what I meant. She's going to retreat into herself. Let me tell you something about your mother…"
As Lyel went about checking the bags that had the clothes her mom had picked out for her wake, funeral and interment she thought about what Glinda had told her, going over it out loud half hoping she would hear her mom respond so she could hear her voice one more time. Lyel knew that her mother was brilliant, reserved, complicated, stubborn and at times an oblivious and frustrating person among other things, but she hadn't known the depths of those traits or the extreme measures her mom sometimes had to take to temper them. After that talk she had a newfound respect and admiration for her parents amazing, long lasting and very real love affair.
"All right mom, your bags have been checked and are properly labeled and ready to go." Lyel said as she sat back down on the bed.
"And don't worry about Mama. I'll take good care of her for you. But for right now, I'm just going to sit here with you until it is time for you to go. Because I know Mama doesn't want you be alone." She said as the tears started to fall again.
X
"Just us for the next four days Elphie, Let's go for a walk. To the garzebo."
"A walk? Lyndie are you sure that is a good idea."
"Absolutely. Elphie, I know what I'm up against as well as you do, in spite of what you think. Right now, at this moment I feel good and want to visit the garzebo. Tomorrow I might not."
"Of course my sweet. I apologize. Why don't we have a picnic?"
"What a great idea! Now you are getting with the program my love."
As Elphie worked on Glinda's little doll, her mind thought back to those four days, remembering every detail like it just happened starting with that walk they took right after the last person had left the house. As they strolled slowly to the garzebo they reminisced about it. How surprised they were when it was built, how they spent time in each of the sections, the time the spent there after Byjon died, the first time they took Lyel there and all the times after. They spent most of the morning at the garzebo, talking, having their picnic and playing several games of cheskersgammon both with and without the gammon. On the way back to the house they stopped by the stables. The grooms were the only staff still on the grounds, in order to care for the horses but they were nowhere in sight. Elphie chuckled when she thought about how Glinda had teased her about taking one last run on the horses, nearly causing her to have a stroke. For reasons that were not clear at the time that gave them both the good laugh that they didn't know they needed and opened the door for the necessary upcoming tears. They spent some time with Dusty's great-grand colts , the twins Starry Knight and Starry Sky, giving them treats and hugs before heading back to the house.
"Elphie, I'm going to take a nap. Lay down with me?" Elphie smiled when she remembered the events that had taken place when they returned to the house.
"Of course my sweet."
"And then make us a cake."
"Excuse me?"
"You know, one of those little ones that Bri taught us all how to bake."
"Oh, I'd almost forgotten about that. Those lessons did not go very well."
"Oh pish, we all had a great time and the cakes were even edible, mostly."
"If you want a little cake my sweet, then I will do my best."
Elphie continued to remember the start of that long weekend as she took the freshly stuffed rag doll over to the little sitting area, where a sewing kit with which to make repairs, was waiting.
X
"Bug." Jotif said for the third time. Lyel looked up, startled.
"Mr. Brescib and his assistants are here."
"Already?" Lyel said, surprised.
"It's been two hours sweetie." Jotif said gently.
"Oh wow. This is all just too surreal."
"I know." Jotif said as he gathered Lyel into his arms.
"Mom looks… well, sort of happy."
"She was absolutely positive that when she died she would be with her parents, friends and family and her beloved Byjon. So maybe on some level, she is." Lyel smiled
"I'll go talk to the undertaker. You say goodbye to Mom."
"All right. Oh I peeked in on Mother. She is still down in her workroom, doing what I have no clue. But she is busy." Jotif said.
"And the whole place smells like cloves."
"No surprise there. I'll go get her after Mom leaves." Lyel said with a hitch in her voice.
"We'll get through this Bug." Jotif said with a smile.
"You know Mom won't have it any other way."
"True." Lyel smiled.
"Okay Mom. Jottie is going to stay and I'm going to make sure everything is on track." She said then kissed her mom's cheek and hurried off.
"I've got the ball rolling, just like you instructed Mom." Jotif said as he sat down on the bed.
"Everyone…and I do mean everyone, has been notified and everything will be ready, just as you planned." He smiled.
X
"Hello Mr. Brescib." Lyel said as she entered the parlor. The Undertaker rose and extended his hand.
"Hello Mrs. Zesquin. I am so sorry for you loss." The man said. He voice was gentle, soothing and very reassuring.
"Thank you Mr. Brescib. We were as prepared as we could be." Lyel said.
"Well rest assured that everything will be just as your mom wanted. Down to the last detail. The funeral home is preparing for her arrival as we speak and she will be escorted to Jon's House this evening." Mr. Brescib said with a comforting smile.
"Will you be accompanying her?" He asked.
"No. My husband will be. He is up with her now." Lyel said.
"Very good." The man said as he took Lyel's hand in a fatherly way.
"Don't worry about a thing Mrs. Zesquin. Your mom will be well taken care of. You have my word." He said as he patted her hand.
"I know but I appreciate hearing it. It helps." Lyel smiled.
"Then with your leave I will go and get my assistants and we will escort your mom to the funeral home." The Undertaker said.
"Of course." Lyel said and the man nodded and left the parlor. Lyel happened to glance out the window and saw the hearse. It was nondescript, but it made a knot form in her stomach.
Lyel walked over to the library for no other reason than she wanted to and sat down at the desk. Her next task was dealing with her mother but she had a little bit before she had to do that so she took a deep breath and collected her thoughts. She knew that her mom was in good hands because Mr. Brescib and his staff had been vetted and drilled by Glinda Thropp Upland herself on exactly what she wanted and how she wanted it. Lyel chuckled as she remembered those meetings because they had taken place even though Mr. Brescib was the grandson of the founder and Brescib's Funeral Parlor was where her grandparents had been taken care of. They had even assisted in getting Namom ready and arranging for her transport back to the Pertha Hills for her funeral. Lyel reached into the desk drawer and pulled out the folder where all her mom's plans were laid out. She ran her hand over the folder but did not open it. She knew what was in there by heart. And she also knew that all the minute planning, all the specific detail wasn't for her mom's vanity, it was for her mother. To protect and reassure her mother. As Glinda said on many occasions no one knew how much she loved a good plan better that Elphaba.
X
Elphie put the final stitch in the freshly stuffed little doll and looked it over carefully to see if there were any needed repairs that she missed. When she was satisfied, she put away the sewing kit as she continued to think about that long weekend.
"Dance with me Elphie." Glinda said as she led Elphie into the ballroom through the terrace door.
"All right my precious. What sort of music would you prefer?"
"Surprise me."
"As you wish."
"Elphie…a tango? Really?
"You wanted me to surprise you."
"Mission accomplished."
"Mrs. Thropp Upland, may I have the pleasure of this dance?"
"The pleasure will be all mine Dr. Thropp Upland."
They danced several tangoes. None of them were the get the children out of the room and cover your grandma's eyes dances of their younger years, but they were no less passionate, no less intimate. They danced until Glinda became fatigued, then they went up to their suite so she could nap. As she gently caressed the little doll in her hand she thought about other things they did during that long weekend alone, focusing for reasons she didn't know on the time they spent in the kitchen, preparing meals and talking. They talked about all the picnics they had, the intimate candlelit meals, all the times Tyuron and Uliko sent food home with them in the special cooling box and all the experimentation and mishaps. She smiled as she remembered their first role-playing, the little bar that Glinda created for them in their apartment in Ev. Glinda, the lonely serving-wench bringing her, the wandering troubadour, a humble meal. She smiled unconsciously as she thought about the antics that followed and what they ended up doing with the whipping cream that was meant for their dessert.
"Mama?" Lyel said for the third time as she flicked the light switch. It took a few beats but Elphie finally oriented on her. It had been nearly five hours since she first went down there.
"You seem lost in some wonderful thoughts. Care to share?" She said as she came into her mother's workroom. Elphie's amused smile slowly shifted to a non-committal one.
"Is it time?" Elphie asked, meaning was Glinda settled at Jon's House.
"It is." Lyel said.
"Is everything as she wanted it?" Elphie asked.
"Down to the very last detail." Lyel said.
"Let's get something to eat, then we'll go over there." She said.
"I'm not hungry. I'd prefer to go now." Elphie said.
"Sure Mama. I'll go tell Foligh to bring around your car." Lyel smiled. She had expected this and had told her husband to tell the kitchen staff at Jon's to prepare a simple meal for her mother. Mom's orders.
"If you must." Elphie replied.
"I'll be up in a few minutes." She said as she rose from her chair. Lyel nodded and went over to give her mother a hug.
"I love you Mama." Lyel whispered as she held her mother close keeping her tears under control with great difficulty.
"I love you too Bug." Elphie said as she gave Lyel a long squeeze then kissed her cheek as she let her go.
"I'll be up in a few minutes." She repeated and headed toward her worktable.
Lyel started up the steps then turned to look at her mother, who was gathering some things and putting them in a satchel, once again oblivious to anything but her task. Lyel took a deep breath and let it out slowly as tears rolled down her cheek. She watched her mother work for a bit then with a sigh went to find their driver and continue on with the plans her mom put in place.
X
Jotif sat in the Jon's House lobby, waiting for Manif to arrive. On Glinda's instruction, Manif was the first person he had notified and was the first response he had received. All the notifications had been sent hours ago and many responses had already been received. Close friends and family should all have arrived by tomorrow and there would be a casual buffet brunch set up as part of the private visitation time. This was part of Glinda's meticulous planning. Friends and family would be staying at both Jon's House and at the Manor but all memorial service activities would be held at Jon's House. Things were to start the day after her death and were to end no later than two days after that and between the Manor staff, Jon's House staff and the funeral parlor, everything was either in place or very close to. Tomorrow morning and afternoon was for close friends and family to gather together and hopefully share memories and stories that made them laugh and smile. The evening was visitation time for all the people who worked with Jon's House to do the same. The day after would be the actual memorial service, followed by the private interment in the family mausoleum. After that came the getting on with their lives without their family stalwart. Glinda even had a plan for that. He was remembering those conversations with a chuckle and did not hear Manif come into the sitting area.
"Hey Jotif." Manif said breaking into the man's thoughts.
"Manif." Jotif said with what amounted to a sigh of relief as he accepted a warm, comforting hug from his Mother-in Law's best friend.
"What were you thinking about that amused you so." Manif asked.
"Glinda's penchant for planning. Everything." Jotif smiled.
"She always did love a good plan." Manif chuckled.
"So how is her wife?" He asked a bit more seriously.
"I truly have no clue." Jotif said.
"Well let's go find out." Manif smiled as he patted the younger man's shoulder.
X
A few days after the long weekend that Glinda and Elphie had spent alone together and Lyel had been told of her mom's illness and inevitable death, Glinda had gone to Jon's house to plan her memorial service activities, complete with detailed sketches. Now, Lyel walked through the Grand Ballroom, where everything would take place, satisfied that it was all on track to be done as was planned. Most of it was being done magically but some of the set up was being attended to by Jon's House staff. The main area was a large parlor type room that was set up in the far back corner of the Ballroom and was mainly for her mother's benefit but was also going to be used for private goodbyes for family and friends. It was a curtained off area but magically glyphed against most ambient sounds with a variety of comfortable chairs and sofas, side tables with lamps that provided a warm glow to the space. Her mom's white casket had been put in there straight from the funeral parlor and it would remain there until the memorial service. Lyel took her mother directly there when they arrived at Jon's House and she had been there ever since. Lyel was thinking about how her mother had gone in the florist shop near the entrance to the Grand Ballroom area and purchased a single blue Gillikin rose, which she reverently placed on her mom's casket. She was wondering what was behind the slight smile on her mother's face as she did that when her thoughts were interrupted.
"Bug." She heard and turned to see Manif standing there with his arms open wide.
"Uncle Manif." Lyel said with relief. She didn't realize how relieved she was to see him until she was enveloped in a familiar hug and she burst into tears. Manif simply held her and patted her back as she cried.
"We'll get through this Bug." Manif said as she started to pull away.
"Oh, and hello." He smiled.
"Hi Uncle Manif." Bug said smiling in return as she dried her eyes.
"And I know we will. Somehow."
"Looks like you are expecting a mob." Manif smiled.
"An SRO crowd yes. Mom was beloved." Lyel said.
"Well if anyone would know about SRO crowds, it's you." Manif chuckled, referring to some of her standing room only, sold out performances.
"Were you able to get in contact with Jokil, Mionida and Fragio?" Lyel asked.
"Yep. All my progeny and their progeny and so on will be here sometime tomorrow." Manif said.
"And on the way in here, we got a wire from Ash. He, Nini, Paji and Jilio will be this evening. Their kids sometime tomorrow." Jotif said.
"Good. Any word from Munchkinland?" Lyel asked.
"Not yet. I'm going to check in at the Manor now." Jotif said.
"I will be back in an hour or so." He said then kissed Lyel's cheek and shook Manif's hand before he left.
"So where is your mother. And more importantly, how is your mother?" Manif asked.
"She is in there, with Mom." Lyel said pointing to the parlor area.
"As for how she is… I'm not sure. She hasn't eaten yet today. Not even the fruit I brought her."
"Not surprising. Why don't you bring us down something to eat. And leave the rest to me." Manif smiled.
"Exactly what I was hoping you would say." Lyel said with a little laugh and Manif chuckled.
"We'll get through this Bug." Manif said again.
"I know. Mom planned it that way." Lyel said and Manif laughed out loud.
"Ah the fair Glinda was a planner extraordinaire for sure."
"Yep. I'll be down in a bit with some food." Lyel said.
"I'm glad you got here so quickly Uncle Manif."
"Me too. See you in a bit." Manif said then gave her a hug and headed toward the parlor area.
"Never fear. Manif is here." He sing-songed loudly as he neared the area.
Lyel watched Manif stride toward the parlor and smiled as she turned to leave the ballroom. She was thinking about her mother and her best friend's amazing relationship. A very intimate but platonic relationship that was very difficult for those who did not know them well to understand. And sometimes even for those who did. But it was what was going to get her mother through the next few days. And for that, Lyel was grateful.
"She's in here." Lyel heard her Uncle Shell's voice but there was no way that he and Bri could have gotten the wire and made it here from Tram already. Confused she hurried to the door and saw Shell, holding Bri's hand, all but run into the ballroom.
"Bug." Shell said.
"We just heard." He said as he gathered her into a hug. Bri said hello and saw that Lyel was clearly confused.
"We left Tram early. We arrived in Frottica about half an hour ago and went to the Manor. We came straight here when we were told." Bri explained.
"I'm so sorry Bug." She said and gave Lyel a hug.
"It's not like it was unexpected. But it was a shock anyway." Lyel said.
"Is there anything we can do?" Shell asked.
"Everything is under control. But I'm glad you are here Papa." Lyel said then hugged Shell again. She had only called her biological father Papa a few times in her life, and that was fine with Shell. He was her Uncle Shell, and proudly so.
"Uncle Manif is with Mama. He just got here. Why don't you come upstairs with me and I'll tell you what is going on. I'm going to prepare something for them to eat." She said.
"I'll assist you. Perhaps we can all have a meal together." Bri smiled.
"That's a great idea Aunt Bri." Lyel said.
"I really am glad that you two are here already." She said softly as she took their hands.
X
"And your old pal the scepter too." Manif's magic scepter singsonged and Elphie saw its head poking through the opening.
"Hello Manif." Elphie said as she rose from her chair.
"You may enter. That may stay out." She said.
"You would think, after all these decades, you would accept that my scepter is a valuable, helpful and wonderfully entertaining part of your life." Manif said as he came in.
"And you would think, after all these decades of my ambivalence, you would stop trying." Elphie replied. Manif's response was to gather her into a firm loving embrace.
"You'll get through this." Manif said softly without letting go. Elphie succumbed to the familiar for many long beats.
"Hello Manif." Elphie said with a slight smile as she rather reluctantly pulled away.
"Howdy green girl." Manif said.
"Quite a set up you've got here. All part of Glinda's plan I assume." He said with a slightly sad chuckle.
"It seems that way. I haven't asked a lot of questions. Part of the plan is that I'm not a part of the plan apparently." Elphie said.
"Do you want to be?" Manif asked as they sat down.
"I suppose not." Elphie sighed then looked at the white casket.
"I wouldn't even know how to begin."
"Then it appears Glinda's plan, as usual, is fool proof." Manif said.
"Or Elphie proof, as the case may be." He chuckled.
"I don't know how to deal with this. To keep my promise to her to live my life. I don't know what to do." Elphie said hesitantly tears glistening in her eyes
"Yes, you do. And you have no choice but to get through this. My honor is at stake." Manif said.
"So this is about you now?" Elphie said with an irritated chuckle.
"Of course. Did you expect anything else?" Manif said with a smile and Elphie sighed and rolled her eyes. Manif leaned forward and took Elphie's hands in his and locked his caring, concerned eyes onto hers.
"Green girl, you got me through Dani's death. Her life ended and I was certain mine would too. I was a grieving mess. And you were there, you let me be, for a time. You held me, laughed and cried with me. Then you badgered, annoyed and irritated me until I saw a glimmer of light at the end of that dismal, heartbroken tunnel.
You loved me through it. I can do no less for you, my dearest friend. You might feel alone, but you are not." He said sincerely, with enormous affection.
"Glinda contacted you, didn't she?" Elphie replied.
"Of course. Did you expect anything else?" Manif chuckled lightly.
"All part of her nefarious plan to take care of you. Sneaky right to the end." He smiled and Elphie chuckled in spite of herself.
"That's my girl." Elphie mumbled with a quiver in her voice.
"I don't… I can't…" She stammered.
"I've got you green girl. I've got you." Manif whispered as Elphie started to tremble. For only a few, but very necessary minutes, Elphie fell apart into bundle of confusion, despair and anger as Manif held her tightly.
X
"Oh hey, Beliea, Caspon." Lyel smiled she hurried over to her parent's friends. They both walked slowly, with canes and the assistance of their children or grandchildren but their eyes were bright and sharp and betrayed their sadness. Beside Manif they were the only members left in her parents' gang of close college friends.
"Bug." Beliea said as she gave Lyel a hug. Caspon greeted her and gave her a hug as Jotif came over to say hello. As Lyel and Jotif led them to a sitting area they greeted their kids, who they had been casual friends with for a very long time. They accepted condolences and chatted for a bit about what was going on then the kids left with a staff member to get their parent's things set up in their rooms upstairs.
"I'm assuming Manif is here." Caspon said.
"He arrived yesterday and has been with Mama ever since." Lyel sighed pointing to the curtained off area.
"You seem to be holding up well." Beliea smiled.
"I'm hanging in there. Mom planned everything to the last detail, so I'm basically just directing traffic at this point." Lyel chuckled then sighed.
"It looks like a lot of your family is here already." Beliea said.
"They all got here more quickly than we thought. Brunch is being set up in an hour or so and family and friends visitation will start. Manif and Mama have been in there all night, which is no surprise. She hasn't slept, at least not much but she has been eating. The plan is for her to go upstairs with you all and Manif to freshen up and change. A nap would be optimal but unlikely." Lyel said.
"Not surprising for a life-long insomniac." Caspon smiled.
"Never understood it. Naps are wonderful." He smiled . Lyel noticed someone trying to get her attention and motioned she'd be there in a moment.
"We are ready help however we can." Beliea smiled and Caspon nodded.
"Manif and Mama are expecting you. Or at least Manif is." Lyel said.
"I'll escort you." Jotif said as he assisted both from their chairs and offered each an arm.
"We'll see you a little later Bug." Caspon smiled.
"And don't worry about your mother. We'll help Manif get her upstairs." Beliea said.
"If Manif actually survived the night without being turned into something unpleasant." Caspon said.
"There is that." Beliea agreed and they laughed sharing an old, engrained private joke.
X
Elphie sat in the suite that had been prepared for her in the main residence of Jon's House. It was the suite that she and Glinda always used when they stayed there. The residence area had grown to include more basic rooms but the main area was still part of Byjon's original apartment. It had been renovated and modernized over the decades but still had what Glinda called old world charm. She had come upstairs a few hours ago with Caspon, Beliea and Manif, who all had rooms in the same hallway as hers. Manif was right across the hall. It was all part of Glinda's plan. She had bathed, changed into clothes already laid out for her and eaten the light snack that was discretely placed on the table by her chair. Also, all part of Glinda's plan and she was both annoyed by it and very grateful for it. Elphie knew that Manif was more than likely sleeping across the hall and that Caspon and Beliea were more than likely doing the same in their rooms beside hers. Downstairs family and friends were gathering, having brunch, paying their respects and chatting amongst themselves. Lyel had come to check on her not that long ago to tell her that the cousins were arriving. Elphie smiled when she thought that the cousins used to refer to Glinda's Arduenna and Upland cousins but now referred to the children and grandchildren of them. Elphie knew that Glinda wasn't alone downstairs, that there were lots of people who loved her all around right now, so she was content to stay where she was until someone told her otherwise. She also knew better than to mess with one of her wife's plans.
"See Lyndie. I'm being quite cooperative." Elphie said with a slight chuckle,than then sighed, closed her eyes and continued thinking about the last, long weekend she and Glinda spent together.
"The library has been very good to us for a long time Elphie. I can't think of a better place to spend our last night alone together, can you?"
"Actually, I can't. But I feel the need to point out that, according to you, many rooms have been good to us. The ballroom, the parlor, the music room, the playroom downstairs and my work room as well as a few walk in closets and that storage space under the terrace."
"You forgot the old tack room in the stables my love."
"I did not forget. I blocked it out."
"Oh now, in hindsight having a roleplaying night in the stable without double checking that all of the grooms would be gone was a mistake. But not a block out worthy one."
"Eye of the beholder my sweet."
"Ah, well…that is true."
Elphie smiled when she remembered how they had danced slowly around the library they talked about how the makeup of the shelves had changed over the years, as well as all the romantic dinners, holidays, game nights and general fun that had been had there. They also remembered, by way of reenacting, Elphie's proposal. Elphie sighed heavily and made herself think about the conversation that took place after that.
"We need to talk about this my love."
"It won't change anything."
"Maybe our outlooks or understanding or something. We need to Elphie."
"I know."
There were a few false starts but they knew how to engage like this and they eventually settled in to the inevitable. For hours they talked, at times very heatedly. There were angry words and gestures, loving words and gestures, confusion, despair as well as some laughter and gentleness all mishmashed together as they worked through what was going on now as well as what it meant for the future. Then at some point, without their conscious realization came the acceptance. It was hard earned but the journey there had been a necessary one. Then, they surprised themselves bit when, with the fragile peace that came with acceptance of the inevitable, they made love. More slowly, more gently, more carefully than even their first time. The windows did not rattle, the earth did not move, there were no moans or groans. There were only the gentlest of touches and caresses, the most loving words that did not end in crashing waves of pleasure but in soft ripples of sheer affection and deep connection combined with tears. Elphie did not even feel the sting of the tears that slid down her cheek as she remembered how they fell asleep that night entwined together, skin to skin, connected with a sense of strength that would be needed in the weeks to come.
X
"Mom!" Lyel was walking into the ballroom when she heard the voice of her oldest child, her daughter Melly.
"Hi Mom." Melly said as she caught up with her mother and gave her a hug.
"Hello my daughter, when did you get here?" Lyel asked.
"Just a bit ago. Aunt Nessa and Uncle Brac went on to their suite. They will be down soon." Melly said.
"I'm so sorry Mama. How are you doing?" She added as they sat down together.
"I'm alright for now. Things have been hectic…busy." Lyel said.
"I'm sure. Are the brats here?" Melly asked and Lyel gave her an amused glare.
"Your brothers are in the ballroom mingling." Lyel said.
"Grams is in that curtained off parlor area. Brunch is set up on the farewell. Visitation goes on until this evening."
"Is Granny in there with her?" Melly asked.
"She was until a few hours ago. She went upstairs with Manif, Caspon and Beliea." Lyel said.
Oh I'm so glad her friends are here. I hope that helps her. I can't even imagine." Melly said.
"I can't imagine what you are going through either. But I know I'd be a mess, not nearly as put together as you are now, if anything happened to you or daddy." She asides tears started. Lyel smiled and wiped away her daughters tears. She wasn't an overly emotional child but she did have her moments.
"Well I'm only together because your Grams planned it that way. She planned all of this to the last detail." Lyel smiled.
"I would expect nothing less actually." Melly grinned.
"Mels, I'm going up to check on your Granny. Why don't you go find your brothers? And I think Uncle Shell and Aunt Bri are in with Grams." Lyel said.
"I'll go check on Granny, Mom. I'd like to actually." Melly said and Lyel studied her carefully.
"All right. I'll tell everyone you Nessa and Brac are here." Lyel said then Melly gave her mother a kiss and left.
Lyel watched her go with a smile. Her only daughter and her mother had always had a special, albeit at times contentious relationship. Melly, named after her mother's mother had expressed an interest in Munchkinland and what her Aunt Nessa did at a young age, much to her mother's chagrin. But her mother did not stand in her way and even supported her, even as she was very hard on her. Then, just last year, after Elphaba, Heir Apparent of Munchkinland was convinced that her granddaughter truly and genuinely wanted it and had demonstrated a remarkable aptitude for it, she retired and Melly was installed as the new Heir with the Governor's full support and approval. There were some protocol formalities that had to be worked out because the title should have gone to Lyel, but Lyel had no interest, desire or aptitude for politics. Lyel knew she was simplifying in her mind what had actually transpired over the course of Melly's young life but both she and her Granny had emerged unscathed and that is what was important.
X
Elphie made her way through the maze of hallways in the performance area to Lyel's private rehearsal room. Melly had come to check on her about an hound a half ago. Her grandsons had come up not long after that, as did Shell and Bri. Nessa and Brac joined them in the communal area and the family visited and grieved together until Jotif came looking for Lyel. No one had seen her since Melly's arrival and he was concerned. Shell volunteered to search for her but Elphie sent them all to the ballroom to be with the rest of the family and friends that were gathered there. She was a grieving widow now hut she was also a mother and Glinda had made her promise that the former would not overtake the latter. She was following a rare hunch that Lyel was dancing, letting out some of her grief. She was pleased that her hunch was correct when she stopped at the door and saw her daughter in motion.
For just a few beats she watched Lyel dance. Her daughter was an Oz renowned choreographer and dancer. She was accomplished in all types of dance from ballroom to tap and everything else. She had made a name for herself mixing, matching and creating. But her first love was ballet, both classical and more modern styles and she was considered one of the very best prima ballerinas in Oz. She loved to dance, for any reason or none at all but Elphie knew that now it was for catharsis, like when she sang or played piano or when Glinda sketched and wadded up her creations into little balls. It had taken her a while, and lots of help from Glinda to learn how to interpret Lyel's dances, to differentiate happy from sad from mad, confused, determined and what have you. She knew that Lyel was angry now and hurt. And for just a beat her mind saw the first time she witnessed her thirteen year old daughter dancing like this.
"Mama, are all boys idiots?"
"Well I can't speak for all males as a group but if your Uncle Manif is to be believed then yes, they are."
"Mama?" Lyel said breaking into Elphie's thoughts. She appeared confused.
"I guess this wasn't a part of your mom's planning." Elphie smiled as she went into the rehearsal space.
"Jotif was looking for you." She said and Lyel sighed heavily.
"I'm sure. I just needed some air, some something." Lyel said.
"I apologize for worrying everyone."
"Nonsense. Just because you are implementing instead of constructing a plan of action does not mean that you are not weary and in need of some me time and support." Elphie said in her unique motherly way.
"Tell me Bug. What do you need from me? I'm sure that your mom informed you I'm not likely to figure it out on my own in a timely manner." Elphie said with a slight smile and Lyel chuckled. As usual, her mother was correct.
"Accompany me?" Lyel asked.
"Of course." Elphie smiled. It was not at all an unusual request.
"Anything in particular?" She asked as she made her way to the piano in the corner.
"Start with your scales please." Lyel smiled and Elphie nodded. Lyel loved to dance to those for some reason.
"Then surprise… and challenge me." She said seriously.
"As you wish." Elphie smiled and started her scales.
For nearly half an hour Elphie played and Lyel danced. Elphie started slow but found that this was what she needed as well and starting pushing herself, which pushed Lyel. Elphie played chords and runs, complex combinations while Lyel countered with equally complex combinations of leaps, spins and steps from all types of dance. Elphie alternated between looking at the keyboard and watching her daughter. When she saw her stop mid spin and gracefully lower herself to the floor sobbing, Elphie was up from the bench as quickly as she could and on the floor beside her. Elphie held her as she cried, allowing her own tears to flow briefly to complete the musical catharsis.
"Feel better?" Elphie asked ten minutes later when Lyel collected herself.
"Much." Lyel said her voice bit raw.
"I thought I was handling things so well. I guess not."
"I disagree." Elphie said.
"You knew what you needed and you sought it out. I'm proud of you."
"Thanks." Lyel smiled.
"You are better at this than I am, just like your mom was. I know that you know that I am going to be a handful for the next few days, weeks, months…who knows." Elphie smiled.
"But I will try not to be. I made promises to her as well. Promises to try."
"I know. We will get through this Mama. However we can. We will." Lyel said then gave her mother a fierce hug.
"We'd better get back up there. I don't want Uncle Manif tell my children any more little Bug stories. I haven't lived the last ones down yet." Lyel chuckled as she rose and then assisted her mother.
"Good idea. He did say that was on his agenda." Elphie smiled then gave her daughter a hug.
"I love you Lyel. Remember that." She said softly and Lyel squeezed her tightly in response.
X
The family and friends visitation went very smoothly and just like Glinda had hoped. With soft music playing in the background groups of people gathered in various areas sharing stories and toasting. There were tears of course but those were intermixed with laughter and smiles. There was even spontaneous dancing. Lyel knew that it was just what her mom had wanted. Elphie participated some but quickly became weary and even on occasion annoyed and she would disappear until Manif, Lyel, Melly or Ashler would track her down and sit with her until she was ready to return.
The more public visitation was a bit more complicated. Family and close friends went upstairs or to local restaurants to continue reminiscing. Immediate family were obligated to be there and that quickly became very taxing for Elphie. Manif stayed with her and the others took turns fielding questions and condolences and prevented any one person from dominating too much of her time. By the time the last well meaning group of people left, everyone was weary.
"Mama, you really have to try and get some sleep." Lyel said as she entered the curtained off parlor area where Elphie was sitting alone with her mom.
"Lyel, I can't…" Elphie started.
"Whatever it is we have it covered. I promise. Mom will not be alone, not even for a minute. Not a second." Lyel said.
"Tomorrow is going to be hard, for everyone. Mom wants us to at least try."
"All right. I can but try." Elphie sighed.
"Good. Manif said that he, Beliea and Caspon were waiting in your suite for a slumber party. And he gave his word that his scepter, in any form, would not be attending."
"Well that does make my decision easier." Elphie smiled.
"Just give me a minute please."
"Of course Mama." Lyel said then left. Elphie rose from her chair and went over to Glinda's casket and laid her hands on it as she thought about the quiet, mostly telepathic conversation they had after making love in the library.
"I won't leave you my love. Not entirely, I promise."
"How can you make such a promise Lyndie?"
"Because, I believe it. With everything I am. I believe that Momsie, Popsicle, Namom, Aunts Salt and Greda and all the other Aunts and Uncles, Jilla, Bitra and all the cousins, Byjon, Dani and all our friends will be with me. I've felt them all at one time or another, garnered strength and courage from them. As have you from Byjon."
"That's different."
"Maybe, maybe not. But the point is, you don't think that Byjon is a hallucination anymore. You believe Elphie. Believe in me Elphie, in what we are, what we have. Believe in yourself like I believe in you. I will not leave you."
"I can't feel you my sweet. Maybe it is because there is too much going on, too much noise." Elphie said.
"Or maybe you are to busy greeting everyone to consider me." She added a bit bitterly then sighed.
"I apologize my precious girl. I'm just… so many things I can't process. And lost. But please do not worry. I am trying. I am getting ready to go upstairs for a slumber party with our friends organized by Manif. And I have been assured the scepter will not be there." She said with a smile then noticed movement by the curtain opening.
"Goodnight my sweet. It appears that I must go now." She sighed then blew a kiss towards the casket and headed toward the entrance where Ashler and Nini were waiting.
"Good evening Auntie." Ashler smiled and Elphie smiled wearily.
"Ashy and I are going to keep Auntie Glinda company for a while." Nini smiled.
"I appreciate that." Elphie said.
"I'll escort you upstairs." Ashy smiled as he offered Elphie his arm.
"No need. But thank you Ashler. I'll be fine." Elphie smiled and Ash nodded.
"Good night."
"Goodnight Auntie." The twins said in unison and Elphie left and made her way upstairs.
X
Bri came out of her and Shell's room in the Jon's House Residence and took in the scene in the main parlor with a smile and not even a hint of surprise. Caspon and Beliea were asleep in large comfy chairs, with their feet up on ottomans. Shell had pushed two chairs together and was sort of sprawled out on them. Manif and Elphie were asleep on the sofa. She quietly made her way through the parlor thinking about the previous night. She and Nessa had been talking in the parlor when Beliea joined them. She mentioned that they were going to set up one of their friends' slumber parties in Elphie's suite to try and let her relax enough to sleep some. Nessa was curious as to what they were talking about so Beliea started to explain. Caspon and Manif joined them and took over the explanations, which caused Nessa to be retroactively scandalized by the entire thing. Braclin eventually showed up, as did Shell with a large variety of snacks and they were all talking about Glinda when Elphie showed up. It was relaxed and casual and Elphie seemed at ease so they just stayed. Nessa left first with Braclin and eventually Bri went to her room because of all of them she needed to be up and about very early in order to rehearse the Frottica Symphony for the funeral service.
"Aunt Bri." She heard her name called in a stage whisper and looked over to see Lyel.
"Good morning Bug." Bri said quietly.
"What in Oz happened here?" Lyel asked with a chuckle as she surveyed the scene.
"Slumber party." Bri smiled.
"Ah. I've heard stories that those things usually took on a life of their own." Lyel laughed quietly.
"And…Mama is asleep." She said with relief as she saw her mother reclining in Manif's arms, clearly soundly asleep.
"That was their goal, I think so, mission accomplished it seems." Bri smiled.
"I'm not questioning anything." Lyel said.
"But they do not need to be up now so I'm going to put out a figurative do not disturb sign."
"Speaking of up now. Why are you?" Bri asked kindly as they walked down toward the ballroom.
"I just felt the need to check on things, make sure everything was all right." Lyel sighed then chuckled
"Was everything all right?" Bri asked.
"Oh yes. I looked in on Mom and my kids and Jilla's kids were all in there." Lyel smiled.
"All seven of them?" Bri chuckled.
"Yep. They were playing poker, on Mom's casket. And they dealt her in." Lyel smiled.
"They were reminiscing about how she loved to play games, create them and her complete disregard of rules. They were having fun remembering. Which was just what Mom wanted." She said.
"Yes. Exactly what she wanted." Bri agreed.
"All of this has been." She said reassuringly.
"I know and I'm glad. I hope the actual funeral goes as well." Lyel said as they entered the ballroom where people were already at work setting up for the service. Bri saw one of the musicians, who was setting up wave to to her and she waved back.
"It looks like I'm needed." Bri said.
"Always Aunt Bri." Lyel smiled and Bri chuckled lightly.
"Are you doing okay Bug?" Bri asked sincerely.
"For now, yes. " Lyel said.
"I'll send coffee and a light breakfast over to you and the symphony."
"We'd appreciate that. With lots of coffee please. The brass section is beastly without it. The woodwinds aren't a joy either." Bri laughed and so did Lyel. After a long, reassuring hug they both went to attend to their duties.
X
"Ready green girl?" Manif asked as Elphie came into the sitting room of her suite. She had been down to visit Glinda earlier but had come back up when the funeral parlor needed to move her into the main area for visitation before the service.
"No." Elphie said simply then sighed.
"Is it time?"
"Almost." Manif said.
"The ballroom is packed. I think all of Frottica is there." He said.
"I can't deal with this Manif." Elphie sighed.
"I can't walk through all that and talk with people."
"Don't have to. I told Lyel we'd teleport into the parlor area if necessary." Manif said and Elphie smiled slightly.
"I'll do the honors." Elphie said.
"If I remember correctly, last time you tried, we both landed on our asses."
"Not true." Manif said indignantly.
"I landed on my ass. You landed on me." He chuckled.
"Either way. Your landings are suspect." Elphie said.
"Fine. But…" Manif said with a faux huff but before he could continue they were in the parlor area.
"You talk to much." Elphie smiled.
"Show off." Manif chuckled. After Manif went out to check things out and talk to Lyel he came back in and escorted Elphie out into the ballroom and over to the section where her family was sitting.
The packed ballroom was buzzing with quiet, respectful conversation. Elphie saw the press, which she had been informed would be covering the funeral but not bothering her. She also saw the small security detail, which was necessary due to Nessa and Melly being there. But what drew and mostly kept her attention was Glinda's casket. It was in front, not too far away from her, surrounded by flowers. Surprising everyone, Elphie got up, went to the open casket, took a pink flower from one of the surrounding bouquets and slipped it into Glinda's crossed hands before sitting back down. Then the service started with a song from the Jon's House Children's Choir.
This service was not for the family, that would come at the interment later. This was for the public. Glinda was a respected and loved figure in Frottica as well as in Munchkinland and other parts of Oz. Many people, from dignitaries to merchants, teachers, shopkeepers and anyone else who wanted to got up to share stories about Glinda. They made people laugh and cry. Interspersed were musical performances, a few skits and shows of artwork. It was a joyous celebration of Glinda's life, just like she wanted. But it was long and taxing for Elphie. It took nearly an hour for everyone to leave when the service ended and during that time Elphie waited in the parlor area.
"Mama, everyone is gone now. And most of the family has headed to the Manor to get ready for the interment." Lyel said from the entrance.
"Go with them Lyel. I'll be along."
"Mama. Mr. Brescib and his staff need to prepare Mom."
"I am aware of that Lyel." Elphie said more harshly than she intended, then she turned to her daughter and softened her tone considerably.
"I need some final private time. Manif will wait with me and will bring me to the mausoleum." She said. Lyel looked with confusion at Manif who shrugged and nodded.
"Okay Mama. Your car and driver will be at the ballroom entrance." Lyel said.
"Just the car. Manif can drive." Elphie said and once again Lyel looked at Manif who once again shrugged and nodded.
"All right." "Lyel said.
"Mamma…" She started.
"Go be with the family Bug. I'll be along soon." Elphie interrupted. Lyel started to say something but then thought better of it and merely nodded and left. Manif went out with her.
"Don't worry Bug. I've had decades of dealing with the unpredictable green girl." Manif smiled and gave Lyel a hug.
"I know. But it is hard not to worry. I'll tell the funeral parlor people to hold off until Mama is finished…well with whatever." Lyel said.
"Is everyone gone." Elphie asked when Manif came back into the curtained off area.
"Not a soul in sight." Manif said.
"I''ll be ready to go in a few minutes." Elphie said then left. Manif watched her go then just sat down to wait.
Elphie went over to the casket, which was still open and gazed at her love. When it was closed today, it would be for the last time, so that Glinda could be laid to rest in the family mausoleum next to her parents. She needed to make sure everything was perfect. She ran her hands on the pink silk lining that covered the deep soft cushions. It was soft and cozy. Glinda was dressed in her favorite dress, around her neck was the first necklace Elphie had ever given her. And her ears displayed the first earrings. Her charm bracelet, loaded with memories was on her wrist. Only her wedding ring was on her fingers. She insisted that her engagement ring be saved for Melly or one of the boys. Elphie touched all of these things reverently.
"Like an Unexpected Song….that only we are hearing." She sang softly when she came to the wedding ring.
"Everything seems to be in order my precious one. I know that you believe with all of your heart that you will not be alone. Even now you are probably with everyone, watching me. I'm trying to believe that too. But just in case…" Elphie said and then took the small rag doll from her pocket. She kissed it then placed it in Glinda's hands, wrapping her fingers around it so she could hold it close.
"You'll have company that smells like me." She said trying to smile.
"I love you Lyndie. I think I should probably go now. I would just stay here, like this but that would be impractical. And people would worry. Worry more that is. But I love you so much. It's hard." Elphie said as she felt anger start to build. With no effort at all she buried it as she stepped back from the casket but she was unstable and nearly fell. Manif was there in an instant to steady her.
"Let's just get this over with." She sighed heavily and Manif waved an arm to signal the funeral parlor staff.
Elphie watched everything closely, but said nothing. She saw them close the casket and followed behind, on Manif's arm as four men carried it slowly and very respectfully to the waiting hearse where they gently placed it inside. Elphie insisted on following it and Manif did not argue.
X
"It's over." Lyel said to Manif's daughter, Mionida with whom she had been friends since they were little.
"I can't believe it is over." She said rather flatly, referring to the interment. It was just a short event, mainly meant for the family and close friends to say a final goodbye to Glinda.
"Do you need anything Bug?" Mionida asked as she slipped her arm around her friends waist.
"Not now Nida but I appreciate knowing you are always waiting in the wings." Lyel chuckled lightly. Manif and Dani's oldest daughter was a very talented dress designer and seamstress, who actually got her start by designing costumes for Lyel's performances and was often in the wings to help with changes or repairs.
"I can't thank you enough for taking charge around the Manor and keeping things organized."
"Oh come now. You were invaluable to me when my mother died. Besides, I'm good at keeping your things organized." Mionida said with a chuckle.
"And… I've arranged to stay here for a few days. In case you lose your pointe shoes." She said resurrecting an old private joke and Lyel laughed and gave her best friend a hug.
"It was one time." Lyel huffed.
"One time that performance." Mionida smiled.
"I'm heading back to the Manor to make sure lunch is underway and snacks are out. Most everyone is gone now." She said quickly before Lyel could protest.
"I'll be there…sometime." Lyel sighed.
"We've got this Bug. Us Guoyns are very good at taking care of Thropps. And vice versa." Mionida said pointing to her father, who had his arm protectively around Lyel's mother.
"Very true." Lyel agreed. After another hug, Mionida left herding some of the last stragglers with her. The rest took the hint and left shortly thereafter. Leaving only her, Manif and her mother. She watched them for a moment then sighed and left too. She knew that nothing she said or did would get her mother to leave before she was ready so she wasn't even going to try.
X
"Dani girl, we really need to upgrade our mausoleum." Manif chuckled to his late wife as he looked around.
"I know I haven't spoken to you in a couple of days but I've been a bit busy with our favorite green girl. I'm assuming you've had a chance to greet your bestie already but when you see her again will you please tell her to get a move on and contact her wife…or whatever it is you ghost types do. I humbly admit I can use all the help I can get here. Love you. Miss you. See you in my dreams, my angel." He said with a smile.
On Elphie's request, Manif had left her alone. Or at least as alone as he was comfortable doing. He could see her at the other end of the building, sitting in a deeply padded marble chair, staring at Glinda's crypt. He had been in here before for both Samion and Gwenot's interments but some changes had been made and he was taking it all in. It was a large space that was brightly lit with skylights in the ceiling and long horizontal windows above the crypts and vertical ones between groups of them. There were also large windows at either end. There were also wall sconces spaced liberally through the area. There were marble benches for sitting and visiting near each group of crypts and at either end was a small sitting area made up of several marble, padded chairs and benches along with some marble tables. All in all it was an inviting place.
"Green girl." Manif said softly as he say down in the chair that was at an angle to Elphie's.
"You're going to tell me I need to leave now." Elphie said.
"I was going to suggest it." Manif smiled.
"Elphie, I get this. You know I do."
"I do." Elphie agreed.
"You took suburb care of her green girl. All her wishes were fulfilled and she was never alone, not for a moment. You escorted safely here, where she is now with her parents. And lots of other Uplands. She is safe, comfortable and you know she is loved." Manif said.
"All true." Elphie agreed.
"And I believe with all my heart that my wife and yours are together and yours is trying to figure out a way to get mine to haunt me if I don't get you out of here and back up to the Manor for lunch." Manif chuckled and Elphie looked at him.
"You talk to Dani?" Elphie asked.
"Of course. Usually in my dreams but I just had a little chat with her not long ago." Manif said.
"Give it some time Elphie, you know it needs time. Now, let's go up to the house. We can come back later." He said, expecting a fight.
"All right." Elphie said simply, taking Manif aback.
"I'm trying Manif." Elphie whispered, noting her friend's surprise.
Not one to look a gift horse in the mouth Manif rose and offered Elphie his hand. Elphie went over to Glinda's crypt, which was beside her father's, with an empty one on the other side, by the wall, kissed her hand then pressed it against her name carved into the stone.
"I'll be back my love. I promise." She smiled slightly.
X
Some of the family left that afternoon and most others left the next day. Everything around the Manor was low key, except for a very lively game of Lyndieball which the children organized out on the lawn after lunch on the day of the interment. Elphie spent most of her time in the mausoleum but was eating and sleeping some under Manif's watchful eye. Elphie's dreams were of Glinda but she was growing increasingly agitated because she could not fell her or hear her even when she was alone in the mausoleum. Manif, out of necessity left, along with Mionida, a week after Glinda's interment.
For the next month, Lyel and Jotif slowly starting getting things moving to a new normal at Jon's House and the Manor. Glinda was a popular topic of conversation, which helped everyone grieve. There were good days and bad days but generally speaking, the household was adapting. Except for, Lyel thought, her mother.
Elphie spent most of her time in the mausoleum. If not there, she was in her study or work room. Or she was in the music room, playing like her life depended on it. She would not participate in family activities, she was irritable and even though she ate when asked and was getting minimal sleep, mostly uncooperative. But she wasn't really being harsh or mean. Lyel could see that she was struggling to find a reason to do things and if she couldn't she just wouldn't. But she would talk to Lyel, which was the only thing that kept Lyel from dissolving into a massive puddle of concern. Her mother was lost and searching but she was hanging onto something. Lyel just wasn't sure what or for how much longer.
X
Elphie woke up from a dream disoriented and angry. As had been plaguing her for months now, it was a musical dream. Just like the dreams she had when she was involved in that accident at Shiz and was unconscious. Glinda was there but she wasn't. She was singing everything she felt and people…Glinda was singing to her but they weren't connecting. It had been going on for too long and Elphie was feeling like she was losing her grip.
"Lyndie, you promised. You said you would be here for me that you wouldn't leave me. But you have. It's been almost six months. I can't feel you, hear you. All I feel is hurt, I feel lost alone, I feel angry." Elphie lashed out at the storm that was raging beyond her window then, in a faint green haze, she was gone. Down the hall in what used to be Samion and Gwenot's suite. Lyel bolted awake.
"Jottie, Jottie." She said in alarm as she spoke her husband.
"What, what's wrong?" Jottie said as hatred to orient.
"Mama teleported."
"What? I thought she wasn't going to do that any more. At least not in the middle of the night." Jotif said testily.
"So did I. But she did." Lyel said just as testily as she started to get out of bed. Jotif sighed and took her hand preventing her from leaving.
"Okay, all right. Let's not start in on each other. Again." Jotif said. Lyel sighed, nodded and kissed him.
"I'm sorry Bug." He said.
"Me too." Lyel said then started to cry softly.
"This can't go on Jottie. Mama is just… I have no idea any more. I don't know how to help her."
"We are doing our best Bug. It's not like we weren't warned." Jotif said.
"Look. One day…or night at a time, right? I'll go get her car and go get her. I can usually get her to come back."
"I think we both need to go this time. We need to do something this time." Lyel said.
"What? Sedate her?" Jotif said with a mirthless chuckle.
"No. I don't know. Just go get the car. I'll let one of the staff know." Lyel said.
"Okay. But I'm getting a snack. I can't go do battle with your mother unfortified." Jotif said.
"We are not going to battle Mama." Lyel said and Jotif looked at her in amusement.
"Okay fine. Get me one too." Lyel said.
"You got it." Jotif said then he kissed Lyel and hurried off to change. Lyel went to the window and watched the storm for a bit then went to change her clothes.
"I could use a little help here Mom." She said as she left the room.
X
"What am I supposed to think?" Elphie said harshly as she paced up and down in the space in front of Glinda's crypt. She had been doing that since she teleported in, occasionally stopping to look out a window at the storm.
"You're just not here…or anywhere. That's my conclusion. A logical, rationale one." She said
"So I'm embracing hurt, pain, loneliness. It's what you left me, it's all I have." Elphie said in resignation. She did not notice that Lyel and Jotif were in the doorway. And she did not notice what they were reacting too. She just started singing the storm song.
"Oh my Oz!" Lyel exclaimed silently.
"The stress must be getting to me. I see my mom, right there." She said pointing to a space in front of a great grandparents crypt.
"Really?" Jotif said as he looked carefully at his wife. He had no way of knowing that Lyel did actually see her mom, who was putting her finger to her lips to shush her daughter while sending out waves of reassurance and comfort to her.
"Really. She's here to help." Lyel said quietly.
"Go to the car Jottie. I'll be along in a bit. Trust me."
"I do. And we can use all the help we can get." Jotif said. He was used to unusual magical goings on.
"Thanks Mom." He smiled, saluting the area where Lyel was looking before leaving.
"Yeah. Thanks Mom. She needs you. We need you." Lyel whispered. She saw her mom nod and smile and then shoo her away with her hand. With a chuckle, Lyel disappeared from the door way just enough to be out of sight.
"Elphie, my love." Glinda said as she moved toward Elphie. Elphie turned toward the sound and chuckled dryly.
"Dreaming or hallucination?" She asked testily.
"Neither." Glinda said gently.
"Oh come on. I resign myself to this and you show up." Elphie said.
"I'm going with figment of my desperate imagination."
"Not that either. I'm here Elphie, but I shouldn't be and I can't stay." Glinda said, unruffled as she held out her hand.
"Please, please my love, my time is short and we need to talk. Trust me." She said. Elphie took her hand and felt the jolt, their jolt that had been with them all along. But she still looked at Glinda skeptically.
"Trust you? I've been trying to. With no success." Elphie said.
"Elphie I've been trying to be with you but you won't let me." Glinda said.
"Won't let you?" Elphie said incredulously.
"I've been begging, pleading, crying…dreaming for close to six months."
"I know Elphie, I've felt it, heard it. I can feel all your pain. That's the problem. You won't let it go. You won't let me go. I can't connect with you unless you let me go." Glinda explained gently.
"What? The afterlife has rules? Really?" Elphie said sarcastically.
"How can I let you go? I might feel hurt but it's all I've got left. Without it I'd have nothing."
"You have to Elphie. I need you to. And everyone is very concerned. Byjon is absolutely beside himself with worry." Glinda said.
"You need to say goodbye Elphie. You need to let me go."
"You have no idea what you are asking of me." Elphie said as the soft music that was playing changed.
"Yes I do. Dance with me Elphie?" Glinda said as she opened her arms. In an instant Elphie was flooded with love, affection, warmth, reassurance and hope.
"I do my love. But you have to figure it out. If not for you, for me."
"Unfair means." Elphie said smiling in spite of herself as they slowly danced.
"Whatever works Elphie, you know the rules." Glinda giggled and something in Elphie started to bend ever so slightly.
"Let me go Elphie, say goodbye."
"I don't know how." Elphie said as the good feelings started to fade.
"Yes you do. I have to go." Glinda said as she shimmered slightly.
"No!" Elphie exclaimed and then felt Glinda's lips against hers, giving her one last boost of love.
"No, please. Don't leave me. I can't." Elphie said as tears rolled down her cheeks.
"Yes, you can. I know it or I wouldn't have come. Let me go. I love you Elphie. Always and forever." Glinda said and was gone.
"No!" Elphie whispered as she crumpled to the floor. Lyel, who had watched everything from the doorway started to run to her but was held back. She turned to see a shimmering apparition of her mom holding her.
"Mom!" Lyel exclaimed.
"This is breaking my heart Bug, more that you will ever know. But she will come through it. I know so."
"But… but…" Lyel stammered.
"You can see me because you let me go. You said goodbye. Mama has not and must. And she must do it on her own. Leave her. Trust me on this." Glinda said.
"If you say so." Lyel said.
"I have to go my precious Bug. Everything will be fine soon. I promise. I love you." Glinda smiled.
"I love you too Mom." Lyel said then felt a wave of love and reassurance that lingered long after the vision of her mom faded away.
X
Elphie sat up from her crumpled position on the floor of the mausoleum, her face on fire from tears, her bones aching. She had no idea how long she'd been there but she did know why. And she was having trouble processing it.
"Damnit." She muttered then teleported herself back to her suite.
Elphie bathed changed and treated her face with aloe oil. Then she paced and muttered for hours. From time to time her eyes would land on the blue Gillikin rose that was on the table in the bedroom. The one she had created for Glinda on her eighteenth birthday. It was still vibrant with life. As she paced through the rooms she noticed that things seemed different but she could not pinpoint how. Finally, as the sun was coming up she came to a decision. She went to get the flower and took it to the window.
"I love you Lyndie, now and forever. And I know you love me. This flower is my evidence. You died. It has not." Elphie said to the sunrise.
"I'm letting you go. To where, I don't know. I just understand that I can't go there…yet. I don't know if this is an automatic thing or if it will happen in increments but I'm letting you go. Goodbye my Lyndie, my precious one. My life. I will go with the flow now. I'm not particularly good at it, but it is not like I haven't had a great deal of practice over the years." She said.
"Goodbye." Elphie whispered again, feeling an odd sense of accomplishment and exhaustion.
With a slight smile she tumbled into her bed and fell into a deep sleep. She didn't even know that Lyel came in five different time to check on her. When she awoke almost fifteen hours later she felt lighter somehow and content. She sat up and glanced over to the rose and smiled.
"I guess I did it." She said to herself.
"Told you so." She heard Glinda chuckle in her head.
"You were correct my sweet." Elphie thought back feeling better than she had since Glinda died.
"I always am. And always will be. Always and forever." Glinda laughed.
"Always and forever." Elphie agreed as she got up to go check in with her daughter.
"Always and forever."
THE END
X
EPILOUGE
The Governor of Munchkinland sat at her desk looking over some papers. She loved this office because of its history. Part of that were the portraits on the wall of the Governors that had come before her. She glanced to her left and saw the portraits she admired most. Her great Aunt Nessarose, her grandmother Melly and her mother Fabala. All had been popular, just and long serving governors. She prayed every night that she was living up to their example. Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of children in the hallway. There was a celebration this week and all the family was here, including her young nieces, nephews, cousins and grandchildren.
"Mimi, Mimi!" a group of them yelled as they ran into her office.
"I'm sorry Madame Governor. They really wanted to say goodnight." The palace nanny said a bit frazzled and Glinlyela chuckled.
"No bother." She said as she came around the desk.
"May I assume you all want a story before bedtime?" The Governor said in her best official voice, which made all the children laugh
"Yes, please. Yep. Oh boy!" came a chorus of responses.
"I've got them Mrs. Polinum. Please take a well earned break." The Governor said over the din.
"If they give me any trouble, my security detail is in the next room." She added with a smile and the children quieted down.
"As you wish Ma'am." The women smiled then left.
"Now then, what story shall I tell." The Governor said.
"Shell and the tunnels." One boy said.
"Nessa and the train robbers." Another said.
"No. Tell the story about the Rose." Her youngest granddaughter said.
"How about I do them all, as you are behaving so well. But I'll start with the Rose story." The Governor said as she went to a shelf. She picked up a vibrant blue gillikin rose in an old chipped pot that looked like a part of a tree trunk that had GU + ET inside a heart carved in it. Her grandmother Melly had brought it here when her mother Lyel passed away. The story of it was legend, she had heard it all of her life and most of the older children here had too. But it was still a favorite. She took the rose to her sitting area and placed it on the table beside her chair.
"Long, long ago when your great great grandmother Glinda turned eighteen your great great grandmother Elphaba gave her the gift of a perfect blue Gillikin rose." The Governor started.
"It was magic." One girl said.
"Dirt for the pot came out of her hands. So cool." A boy added.
"Ewww." A little girl said.
"All of it was magic." The governor said.
"The dirt filled the pot, the seed was added and with mystic chants from an ancient language Elphaba grew that seed into a beautiful flower to present to the girl she loved and would eventually marry. Then she chanted a permanence spell so that the flower would not die."
"Quoad diligo ago." Her oldest granddaughter sighed happily.
"As long as love lives." She translated.
"As long as love lives." The Governor smiled as she touched the soft petals reverently.
X
A/N: Thank you for following this story and for all your comments and kind words. I can only hope the ending did the time it took to get here justice. Remember, people and scenarios in this chapter will reappear in Life with Lyel.
Thank you again.
mecelphie