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Elphaba was airing out the bed linens when she received a message from the Superior Maunt. She was to be present in the Superior's office following evening prayer. There was an important matter to be discussed. Elphaba decided not to dwell on it since the baby was determined to uproot every gardenia in his path. She gave an exasperated sigh as she plucked him out of the flowers. She quickly deposited him in his high chair so she could finish her chore. She picked up the flowers he had managed to free from their dirt beds and placed them on the tray. The boy happily mashed the flowers on the table.
Elphaba couldn't help but be amazed at how much he had grown. The baby watched his mother hang more of the crisp white linen on the clothesline. He was two years old and as silent as his mother.
The day passed quickly, and before Elphaba knew it sundown had arrived. For some reason, she was very anxious about meeting with the Superior Maunt. Perhaps it was because the last authority figure she met had sought to manipulate her. Whatever the cause, Elphaba felt the need to be on her guard. She barely touched her supper.
At the conclusion of the evening's devotions, the maunt who had delivered the message to Elphaba offered to look after the baby for the night. Elphaba nodded her consent before heading toward the Superior Maunt's office.
Elphaba hesitated for only a moment outside the oak door. She drew a fortifying breath and knocked twice.
"Come in, my child."
Elphaba slowly opened the large door. The Superior Maunt was seated at her desk. Oil paintings depicting saints adorned the walls. The Superior Maunt motioned for Elphaba to sit. Elphaba obeyed, folding her hands demurely in her lap.
"Do not be nervous, Sister Saint Aelphaba," said the Superior Maunt. Her voice was calm and affectionate.
"You have been with us for three years now. Since your entrance you have taken a vow of silence. I feel it is time for that vow to be dissolved." She paused to gauge Elphaba's reaction. Elphaba blinked, but said nothing.
"The boy in your care is growing up, and he needs to be taught. He hardly says a word. It will be up to you to teach him."
Elphaba's eyes widened slightly.
"There is no cause for alarm. He will learn by your example. You are now to serve two years of whisper. We will decide the remainder of your career from there. May the grace of the Unnamed God guide and protect you."
"Thank you, Mother," whispered Elphaba as she rose to leave.
"Just a minute, child. Have you given the boy a name?"
"His name is Liir," responded Elphaba softly.
The Superior Maunt beamed at her. "You've named him after the patron saint of children. Wonderful!"
Elphaba bowed her head and left the room.
In the safety of her chambers, Elphaba allowed herself to breathe more freely. The Superior Maunt's words worried her. It will be up to you to teach him. How in Oz was she going to teach Liir how to speak? Elphaba never had to teach Nessa anything. Their father had handled their education. All Elphaba had to do was cater to her sister's every need.
Elphaba sighed heavily and massaged her temples. There was no sense in losing sleep over it. She would handle the situation in the morning.
"If only you were here, Fiyero," she whispered to the air. "You would know what to do."