Thank you very much James Birdsong for your review.

I hope this chapter is clear to you. It is clear in my head. Thanks for reading and let me know what you guys think.

XXX

Everyone was silent all the way. It is still early evening and the streets are still busy. They walked the same streets as before in their green glasses. Yet everything looked different.

''Okay, Elphie, you go to our room, write in your diary there, take a bath, swear, pace, do whatever you want. When you come back we'll talk.'' Glinda said in a stern tone.

Elphaba looked at Glinda for a long time, but still did as she was asked.

When Elphaba closed the door behind her, Glinda looked at Nessa. ''This is going to be a long night talking to her. How do we explain all this to the boys?''

Nessa sighs. ''I have no idea, but let's do one thing at a time. We have Elphaba who has to accept that the Wizard is her father. She has to decide if she wants to contact him. Then she still has to decide if she wants to work with him.''

''We have to wonder if we're going to tell the guys that the wizard. Our wonderful Wizard has no powers but is a fraud. Sweet Oz. What a day and what a disaster.''

Glinda grabs Nessa in a hug. ''I know, but we'll work it out.'' The girls began to cry softly. All the stress and anxiety of the day came out.

''Thank you,'' said Nessa, wiping away her tears. ''I think I was more emotional than I thought.''

Glinda gave her a sad smile. ''I know what you mean. But you forgot an important thing.''

''What is that?'' asked Nessa surprised.

''You, how are you? How do you feel after learning that the wizard is your sister's father? How will you feel when the information is released?''

''Those are good questions Glinda, I really have no idea. Now that the father is a celebrity, the Munchkins will have less trouble with it. So they won't give Elphaba a harder time. But I don't know who the rest of OZ will respond to. I hope they won't say too much about it.''

Glinda understandably nods but also knew that a lot will come their way when it comes out that Elphaba is the Wizard's daughter.

''Is it okay if I freshen up? I feel so dirty after crying.''

''No problem, I'll stay here and think about the problem,'' said Glinda sympathetically.

XXX

''Wait, you want to do WHAT?'' Morrible asked in a panic. ''Oscar, by suppressing the Animals we have our power.'' Morrible suddenly looked pale. ''Consider our deal.'' she hisses after it.

''Yes yes I know,'' Oscar said quickly. ''But listen. Elphaba is my daughter. We can….''

''Yes where does that suddenly comes from?'' Morrible interrupted him.

Oscar swallows and tells again how the girls found out that he is Elphaba's father. ''It is true. I have seen the picture, the age is correct and I recognize some things in her. Like the passion she has for the Animals. I have that passion for wealth and power. If she's really like me, she won't let go until the Animals are free citizens again. If I have the confidence of Elphaba, then we are still in power.''

Morrible thought. She has known the green girl for a while. ''I don't know. She's been through a lot and is very suspicious.''

''Exactly, that's why we have to meet her in the middle with her demands. When she sees us doing good things for the Animals, she will use her magic too. People are not going to turn against me anytime soon if they see that Elphaba has some much power.''

''I don't know,'' Madame Morrible said thoughtfully. ''How do you want to do that?''

''Elphaba is very loyal to Glinda and Nessa. If we also give those two a task in the palace, Elphaba has more reasons to come here. I thought of Glinda as a public figure. She has the face and personality for,'' Oscar explains at a fast pace. ''I don't know what we can do with Nessa, but maybe the Munckin's adviser or something.''

Madame Morrible nods and saw Oscar's plan better. ''That is a good idea. The original plan remains?''

''Yes Miss Claudy will take your place as headmistress from Shiz. You have done your job well. You led a powerful person to me. I am very grateful to you Madame Morrible.''

''Well it is my talent to recognize talent.'' Morrible said arrogantly. ''Miss Elphaba is a much better choice than Miss Claudy.''

Oscar nods. ''I'm having a talk with her in the morning, by the way. Then we'll tell the news. She can go right back with the girls.''

Morrible nods. ''Are you sure you want to give up oppression of the Animals?''

Oscar sighs. ''I know it is a big risk. But let Elphaba turn against us too. I would like a relationship with my daughter. If this is the way, then I want to try it.''

Oscar and Madame Morrible further discussed plans to gain Elphaba's trust.

Satisfied and exhausted, Oscar went to bed. He started preparing for the conversation with Claudy.

XXX

Glinda is on the couch. Her head in her hands was deep in thought when she heard a door. She thought it was Nessa who had finished freshening up, so Glinda didn't look up. She was very surprised when she was hugged.

She returned the hug. Elphaba began to cry. Glinda put Ephaba next to her on the sofa.. ''It's alright my love. Cry as much as you want. You are safe.''' Glinda said to comforts her

Nessa comes out of her room and sees her sister crying. For a moment she feels a twinge of jealousy. That her sister feels safer with her girlfriend than with her. She shakes off the feeling. ''You have to be there for Fabala,'' she whispers to herself. She rolls over to Glinda and Elphaba. She puts her hand on Elphaba's leg and starts rubbing it. ''It will be fine Fabala.''

Glinda gives Nessa a small smile. She keeps running her hand through Elphaba's hair until Elphaba starts sniffling.

''Are you feeling a little better?'' Glinda asked softly as she wipes the tears from Elphaba's face.

Elphaba shrugs. ''Sorry,'' she whispers.

Nessa and Glinda both take a hand. ''Now listen carefully,'' said Glinda sternly. ''You have every right to feel how you feel. Not only have you discovered that your greatest hero is your father, but also a fraud who does not have as many powers as everyone thinks.''

Elphaba looked at the ground. ''I'm sorry to drag you into this mess. You must now keep a secret again, Oz only knows how this affects you.''

Nessa squeezed Elphie's hand. ''Listen Fabala, good things can come out too. But first let's worry about the things we can do something about.''

Elphaba took a deep breath and nodded. She pulled her hands back and sat up on the sofa. ''I did what Glin said. I wrote some things in my diary.''

"That was fast," said Glinda, surprised.

Elphaba smiles. ''I had been thinking a lot on the way to the hotel. I just had to sort it out. I stick to my choice to get to know Oscar. I still have questions like why he doesn't know about the tribulation of the Animals or what he plans to help them. I have a chance to do a lot of good things with him, so I'm going to do that too.'' She sighs deeply. ''And maybe just maybe,'' she stresses. ''I want him as my father.''

Glinda immediately started to bounce. ''Oz Elphie that's so good of you. I think he would love it. You have to buy a new outfit tomorrow.''

Elphie ignored Glinda. She looked at Nessa. ''What do you think?''

Nessa looked into her sister's deep eyes. ''You have to do what you want. I think it is good that you are going to give him a chance. He was very honest when we were alone.''

Elphaba nods. ''I'm glad you think that way. I'm not going to do anything that doesn't make you comfortable. Nessie you are my sister and you come first.''

Nessa opens her arms, Elphaba kneels in front of her and gives her sister a hug. ''I love you Nessie.''

''I love you too Fabala.''

''And what do you think Glin, your opinion is also very important to me.'' Elphie asked as she sat back on the sofa.

Glinda looked away.

''Glin?'' Elphie asked concerned.

''Ooh now you don't ignore me anymore,'' Glinda said with a huff.

Elphie could breathe a sigh of relief again. ''Sorry, but what else did you expect when you suggested buying a new outfit for tomorrow?''

''Well more of. 'Ooh Glin what a great idea, can't wait let's go now.' Glinda said very cheerfully in an Elphaba voice.

''First, I don't sound like that. Second, if I ever react like that, then I am either dead, or critically ill, or I have brain damage.'' Elphie said seriously.

Glinda's face grew a little less cheerful. "You could try," she muttered.

Nessa made an effort not to burst out laughing, but failed. ''Ooh Glinda, if Fabala ever responds like that I'm going to take her to the hospital or she's done something really bad and this is the way to make it up to you.''

Elphie glared at Nessa. ''Why do you think I'm the one doing wrong in our relationship?''

Nessa looked blankly at Elphaba. ''You're the one who doesn't understand a relationship.'' she said dryly.

Glinda's eyes shine again. ''That's a great idea. Quickly Elphie does something stupid again so we get into an argument, like saying I look good without looking up or leaving without a kiss.''

''Hey, it's two against one. Glin, you are impossible. Nessie, Just because I don't have experience doesn't mean I'll screw it up. I've read books on the topic of dating, relationships and other things.''

Glinda started to giggle and Nessa looked surprised.

''Let's go back to the topic of this conversation. Glinda, I want your opinion.''

It took a few seconds for everyone to be serious again. Glinda rubbed her hand over Elphie's cheek. ''I support you in whatever you choose. I trust you to think carefully about your options and to ask for advice if you don't know. You don't have to do it alone. I'm behind you.''

Elphie nods gratefully.

The girls discussed what to do the next day. What happened that day and how they felt about it. She already made a small plan about what to discuss with Oscar when it comes to the Animals and their private lives. It was late in the evening when Nessa started to yawn. Elphaba decided enough was enough, gathered her papers and wished everyone a good night.

When Glinda and Elphaba were in bed, Glinda snuggle into Elphie's arms. ''Glin, do you regret last night and today?''

''No, my sweet Elphie. Everything that happened today only makes last night even more special.''

''I like to hear that. I ... I have the same. Glin, you're the best thing that ever happened to me. I love you more than I can ever imagine.'' Elphaba kisses Glinda. ''I love you.''

''Elphie, I love you so much. That can never be less. I will always love you.''

They fell asleep tired.

XXX

Oscar was early in his study to write out his plans. He heard his door open and saw Morrible walk in.

''Isn't she there yet?''

Oscar nods. ''I sent her away to get us breakfast. She'll be back in five minutes. She was twenty minutes early.''

Grumpy, Claudy walked back to the Wizard's room with two trays of food. She had spent a long time working on her revenge plan for Elphaba. She's impatient to finally hear the news. She doesn't understand why Madame Morrible had to be there, but she didn't really care.

In half an hour I'll be Magic Grand Vizier. she thought with a satisfied smile. She knocks on the door softly and walked in when she heard permission.

Oscar put his papers aside and began to eat. It had been a long time since he had to work that hard.

As they ate, they began to talk about general things about themselves. But there was little to discuss, so they quickly got to the goal of the conversation.

''So Miss Claudy, as I said yesterday, we are going to talk about your career.''

''Yes Your Ozness I am very grateful for this opportunity.''

''Ooh, don't be grateful to me but Madame Morrible, without her promotion you wouldn't have been promoted either.''

Claudy looked confused. But thought nothing of it.

''Miss Claudy, you have been a good assistant in the past. I have learned a lot from you and I know you have learned a lot from me too.'' Oscar continued without being aware of Claudy's confused look.

''It's time for you to spread your wings. Everyone deserves a chance to fly.'' Claudy was already lost in her thoughts of how she would respond to the news she already knew. ''That's why we're sending you to Shiz as a school headmistress.''

''Ooh thank you Your Ozness I like to be your magic Grand vizier,'' Claudy said without thinking.

Madame Morrible had to hold her laugh when she saw Claudy's face. ''Dearie our wonderful Wizard said you were going to be headmistress of Shiz.''

Claudy tries to hide her disappointment but failed. ''Sorry what did you say? I thought you said Magic Grand vizier'' said Claudy to save her herself from humiliation.

Oscar gave her a small smile. ''No, I said headmaster of Shiz. I'll just get the papers from the plan. I'm sure you'll really enjoy yourself there. You are Shiz's youngest headmistress. That is quite an honor. You can be proud of yourself,'' said Oscar cheerfully while he searched through his papers.

While searching, Oscar realized that he had left that paper in his bedroom. ''I'll be right back with your tasks and explanations ,'' he said as he walked out of his study to get his papers that he had left in his bedroom.

Morrible laughed out loud. ''My dear. Did you really think you would become the Magic Grand Vizier? With that little bit of talent you have? Maybe you had a chance before we find someone else who has more talent in her little finger than you.''

Claudy felt angry, sad and humiliated. ''But you said I would work for the Wizard. That I had a chance to stand next to him.''

''Because you were the only one with a little magic at the time. You have even less magic than my two students I have now. Did you really think you had that much talent? Oh My dear I should have started my career right away in politics if I was so convincing. I thought you saw through my sarcasm.''

Claudy had turned completely pale. She thought of all the comments Morrible had ever made to her. "I'm teaching you because I can't teach anyone else." You call that a big plant? Even my little pinkie can do better. But I can't expect more from you either. ' Every time Claudy thought it was Morrible way of motivating. Because every time she got better. She felt angry. ''No, this is not possible, this is a joke.'' She furiously banged her fist on the desk. ''This is a joke.''

''No, do you know what the joke is? That you thought you had a chance to stand next to the Wizard. Even my blonde college student I have now understands even better that I don't compliment her. Yes, you have grown and yes, you have become stronger. But you're not even close enough to the wonderful Wizard yet. You haven't changed a bit with your arogant behavior. The moment I said you got a little stronger, you started acting like you had defeated an entire army.''

It was a lot for Claudy to process.

''I wasn't the only one who thought that way about your arrogant behavior. I notified your parents to make sure you wouldn't be too disappointed if you didn't get past the Wizard. But you didn't care about that advice.'' Morrible continued when she got no response.

''You told my parents my dream couldn't come true?''

Morrible nods. ''I wanted to help you. You turned against your friends. You pretended to be the Wizard himself and barely passed your exam. I gave you the job as assistants so that you could see with your own eyes that your dream was too ambitious. But everything I did you turned into a success. As if you had a better chance of taking control of Oz.''

Morrible sigh deeply. ''Miss Claudy I tried everything to ease the pain for you but you just didn't want to understand. That's why this news hits you so hard.''

The room remained silent. Claudy was thinking about what Madame Morrible had told her. Morrible had informed her parents? She had a chance if that person with more powers hadn't been there? That must have been Elphaba. thought Claudy.

Oscar entered at that point. ''Look here it is. You're going to see Shiz this afternoon with your roommate and her friends. You share a room with Nessarose, who has special needs.''

Morrible nods approvingly '' She is a demanding person but learned a lot from her sister and adopted it too. Her sister is Elphaba Thropp.''

Oscar nods ''Then you give magic lessons to two students. Glinda Upland and Elphaba Thropp. We hope you learn things that way too. The moment you became my assistant, you have taken less and less magical lessons. This way, you can use your talents to good effect. You conduct meetings with other professors who are already aware of your arrival, you make decisions to help the students. We thought a led position would do a lot of good for you. Well the credit doesn't go to me. But to Madame Morrible it was her idea.''

Madam Morrible nods. She couldn't resist sprinkling some more salt into the wound. At first she felt sorry for Claudy, but after her umpteenth attempt to help Claudy, she had had enough. ''Yes we thought it was good that you train the future Magic Grand Vizier, you have a lot of experience working for the wonderful wizard.''

''The future magic grand vizier?'' Claudy asked to confirm her suspicions.

''Well that's not certain yet, but she has a good chance,'' said Oscar quickly, who didn't understand why Morrible was already going to share their plan. ''We hope you enjoy your new work. What do you think?''

''Thank you Your Ozness, I don't know how to thank you.'' Claudy whispers. She does not dare to express her anger at the wonderful wizard. But she was so angry, so disappointed.

''You're welcome. It is my honor to help people and give them their dream job. That's what I like most about my job. I'm sure you know what is expected of you before the afternoon is over?''

''Of course your Ozness.''

Oscar smiles with satisfaction. ''Wonderful. Then here are your train tickets, you travel back with Nessarose, Glinda and Elphaba.''

Claudy got up slowly. She containing everything she need. Claudy hurried to her room. There she did something she hadn't done for a long time. She started to cry. She cried for her dreams, she cried for her anger, for the feeling that her whole life was worthless. When she was done she went to her desk and saw the papers with the information about Elphaba.

The fire of revenge returned. She would show Morrible that she made a big mistake and that she deserves to stand next to the Wizard. She went to the library to find the Grimmerie. She started looking for a powerful spell. She doesn't understand much of the text so she gave up quickly, but she continued to look in other books. There she found powerful spells. She started copying them. She took notes and organized them so they were clear to her. She knew she had to make a plan and not act recklessly. She went back to her study to plan and prepare to go to Shiz..

XXX

That afternoon Elphaba, Nessa and Glinda came to the palace with their suitcases. We were greeted enthusiastically by the personal. They were led to the Wizard's office.

''Ooh come in,'' Oscar said cheerfully. Elphaba stopped by the door frame and Nessa looked in admiration at the large paintings on his walls. Only Glinda walked up to Oscar.

He had prepared enough chairs, the food was already on the table. ''I remembered what you didn't like so I didn't have that fixed.''

''Thank you,'' Glinda said gratefully. She knew that the Thropp sisters were always a bit reluctant in the beginning so she spoke up. ''You shouldn't have gone to that much trouble for us.''

''I like to do it. That's why I am Oz's wonderfull wizard. I like to make people happy. Especially my own daughter,'' he whispered sadly.

Glinda gave him a small smile. Only she was close enough to hear it.

''Come on girls I'm hungry, let's eat.''

They sat at the table and began to talk. First it was Glinda who brought up herself again, but she also drew Nessa and Elphaba into the conversation. Oscar learned that Elphaba and Glinda couldn't go through a door together at first. That Nessa had a beautiful voice to sing along with and is interested in politics. Glinda is very interested in art and can draw pretty good. Elphaba is the smartest of the three and reads a lot. Oscar shared what he used to do when he was the same age as the girls. He learned about the friends who are in Shiz.

''Elphaba also spends a lot of time with Doctor Dillamond,'' Glinda said with a full mouth.

''Is that your favorite professor?'' Oscar asks interested.

''Yes, he teaches my favorite subjects. He is a Goat.''

''Okay, then he does his job very well if he can teach you things.''

Elphaba nods. ''We are doing an experiment together and I learn so much from it,'' she said enthusiastically. This was the first time that Oscar saw Elphaba talk about this and how. It warmed his heart, but also gave him a twinge of jealousy that Elphaab didn't talk about him that way. He shakes those thoughts off him.

''Speaking of Animals and experiments, here are some ideas to help the Animals.''

Oscar handed Elphaab a stack of papers with ideas. Elphaba takes her glasses and begins to read.

''And thank you Oscar,'' said Glinda sarcastically. Oscar looked surprised. ''Now she is reading and taking notes all the time. This was supposed to be relaxing.''

Oscar laughed. He was surprised to see how quickly Elphaba had taken notes on his ideas. After half an hour Elphaba was done and gratefully accepted a glass of milk from Glinda.

Oscar slowly scanned the note. ''These are good additions,'' Oscar said proudly.

Elphaba began to blush. ''This way we can also help people. You don't have to stress that it's all about the Animals. There are also many people who can use it to get to know our language, such as the Vikuns who speak their own language. Setting up a university for people with less money will help the Munchkins too. That way you keep everyone happy.''

''Thank you Elphaba, I will implement these ideas.''

''You're welcome,'' Elphaba said shyly.

''I uhm'' started Elphaba slowly. Oscar immediately looked closely at Elphaba. It made Elphaba uncomfortable that he looked at her like that. ''Do you have to look at me like that?'' she snapped. ''sorry'' She said right afterwards when she saw Oscar's face. ''I'm not good at things when I'm nervous.''

Oscar gave her a small smile. ''No problem, we all have something that we are less good at.'' He reached out to take Elphaba's hand but she withdrew her hands.

''I would like to know you better,'' she said quickly.'' I mean you ask things about me. You show interest. You are going to help the Animals.''

Glinda and Nessa had never heard Elphaba speak so quickly.

Elphie took a deep breath and went on more calmly. ''But I don't want it to be made public just yet. I want to build our relationship calmly. I will contact you if I want.''

Oscar nods. ''Those are accpetable requirements. I know I'm going much further into the future now but what can I say? I am a dreamer. It is no secret that you can come and work here Elphaba. I wanted to offer Glinda and Nessa a position here too,'' Oscar continued shyly.

Glinda thought it was funny to see that Oscar and Elphaba behave so alike. She is proud of Elphaba for handling the situation and curious about what the Wizard had to offer her.

''I would like to have Glinda speak to the public on my behalf. I know she can do it well.''

Glinda immediately considered the proposal. She liked the idea of speaking on behalf of the Wizard.

''I thought maybe to make Nessa a contact for the Munchkins. You already know them and know what they want.''

''Can it also be for other countries?'' Nessa asked who already wanted to play a role in politics.

Oscar nods happily.

''Why are you doing this? I mean I don't want to come and work here just because I'm your daughter.'' Elphaba asked suspiciously.

Oscar who had already prepared to answer this question. ''No Elphaba that's why I'm not just asking you to come and work. I'm not the youngest anymore. I want new people with new ideas. In this way we get together Oz a beautiful country where everyone is happy.''

Elphaba nods. ''Why are you asking us?''

''Why not?''

Elphaba was not happy with the answer, but decided not to ask anymore. She got an angry look from Nessa.

Oscar saw it and moved on. ''Elphaba, before I knew who you are to me. Have I been in contact with Madame Morrible about you. I made Madame Morrible my Oress Secretary because I trust her. So I trust her even when you say you are reliable. I see some of my own in you.''

Elphaba didn't know what to think or feel. She wanted to trust the Wizard, but men could not be trusted. Or yes most. He's already lied to her and all of Oz.

''Elphaba, when I see you I see someone who wants the best for all of Oz. I want such persons to work for me. Think of it as luck or fate''

Elphie didn't know how to answer, so she nods.

Nessa is relieved that her sister no longer asks such questions. She is happy with her chance from Oscar and was equally worried that Elphaba would take it away. Before anyone else say anything she said quickly. ''Oscar, we are very happy with your proposal. I want to accept him. I don't know if Glinda wants it too.''

All eyes were on Glinda. She wanted to mean something to Oz and working for the Wizard is everyone's dream. But saying yes now would mean that Elphaba also has no choice.

''I think about it for a moment. I want to finish my education first.''

Oscar nods. ''It is very good that you say that Glinda, you are very smart,'' said Oscar.

Elphie rolled her eyes, realizing that Oscar is trying to persuade them with compliments.

''If you say yes to my proposal, I would like you to have a diploma. I don't care in which module. I can use everything and everyone has their talents.''

Everyone nods. Suddenly Elphaba thought of Madame Morrible.

''Oscar, I know Madame Morrible is coming to work here, do you know who will be the new headmistress?

''Yes, good that you bring that up. My assistants who came by last night for our dinner, Miss Claudy, will be the new headmistress. She has less magical powers than Madame Morrible, but she can teach you what she knows in magic and work for me. She has also been apprenticed to Madame Morrible. But Madame Morrible did not see a magical career with her as with your Elphaba. I think she's five years older than you are.''

The girls nod.

''She's going with you back to Shiz. She will take on all of Morrible's duties, so your new roommate will be Nessarose.''

Nesse was not in the mood for a new roommate, she was quite happy with Madame Morrible. She knew she had no choice, so she nodded politely.

They talked for the rest of the afternoon. Oscar showed his magic, but the girls had their doubts. They got to know more about each other. That's how Elphaba found out that Oscar's favorite color is green, because it reminds him of his childhood. He used to play in the grass a lot and he felt free there. Elphaba's favorite color is blue because then everything seems limitless in the sky. She didn't add that it's the color of Glinda's beautiful eyes. Elphaba didn't feel completely relaxed around Oscar yet. Oscar tried to give her space, but was sometimes a bit too enthusiastic.

Oscar went over his ideas with Elphaba, who had some more additions. Oscar promises to have most adjustments made within a month.

Nessa and Glinda meanwhile had a discussion about some of the paintings hanging in the palace.

XXX

When it was almost time, Claudy entered the study. She was surprised to see everyone, but didn't show it.

''Your Ozness, the carriage is waiting.''

''How nice Miss Claudy. I would like to introduce you to your new students.'' Oscar introduced everyone. Claudy was polite to everyone except Elphaba, she got an angry look from Claudy.

''I wonder what magical powers you have, Miss Upland'' said Claudy, blushing. Up close she thought Glinda looked even better than from far away.

Glinda giggles. ''Well, I don't have as much talent as Elphie. Thanks to her, I'm in Morrible's classes. or yes, now in your classes.''

''You shouldn't sell yourself short. I am sure that it was through your own talents that you entered Morrible's class.''

''You see Glin, now you hear it from someone else.'' Elphaba takes Glinda's hand and rubbed her thumb over Glinda's hand. ''I'm very curious what kind of lessons you will give us.'' Elphie does not trust Claudy at all. It had not escaped her notice how Claudy looked at her and talks to Glinda. Elphaba didn't know why she deserved it, but she didn't let that woman walk all over her.

Oscar is happy that everyone got along so well. Together they walked to the carriages with the suitcases.

''Thank you Oscar for everything. I will write you, some day.'' said Elphaba when they were almost at the carriage.

It's Your Ozness for you,'' Claudy said quickly.

Oscar held up his hand. ''Miss Claudy, the girls in me have an agreement about how they address me. I hope you can accept that.'' he said sternly.

Claudy flushed and nods obediently.

''Elphaba, thank you for your visit. I cannot say how much this means to me.''

''It's the same for me.'' Elphaba said as she began to blush. ''I hope next time I can see Chistery again.''

''Yes, I hope so too. But today he was free.'' lied Oscar.

Claudy looked surprised. She doesn't know any Chistery the Wizard knew, but she kept her mouth shut. Everyone said goodbye to each other. Elphaba helped Nessa into the carriage. Claudy assisted Glinda when they touched hands Claudy began to blush. ''Are tou all right?'' Glinda asked concerned. ''You're not going to get sick, are you?''

''No, I'm fine, I'm just not used to beautiful people touching me.''

Now Glinda was blushing. ''Thank you, you're too kind to me.''

Glinda entered the carriage. She thought about how to tell Miss Claudy that her heart belongs to someone else.

Oscar blew out of the carriage and went back inside. He went to discuss what had happened with Madame Morrible. He could only stick to his side of the bargain and hope that Elphaba would write soon. He knew Glinda and Nessa would convince her even more now that he made the proposal.

XXX