Thank you to nursejoy7 for reviewing. Don't worry about it.
Thank you to MyLittleElphie for reviewing. I wanted to break tradition of associating the Unnamed God purely with Christianity. It is written to be similar but it does not necessarily have to be the same. On being the next eminence As for Fiyero, I thought it was a cute comment for him to throw.
Thanks to heatqueen for reviewing. Comments below. Though thank you about the emotion. It is what I was going for.
Thank you to berserkeroo for reviewing. Do the Gelphie eminence story. There could always be more. I'm glad it is getting more interesting. I like to think were midseason: some big plot lines will be resolved, some will continue. And thanks on the calendar.
Thank you to mysweettrhopp. I'm glad you like the story. I'm super appreciative that modergelphie has put me on the favorites list. Its an honor. Sorry about being late. Hope the chapter length helps.
Thanks to cestlavie23 for reviewing. Fighting is a very externally or environmentally driven story. This is more internally driven, though the environment makes it interesting.
Quite a few wrote about Nessa: I wanted to bring some humanity to the character that is Nessarose. She a cripple that is devoted to a God because it's her lifeline. The other is her sister. What would her reaction be if one of those was threatened? In the book when Elphaba leaves she becomes a zealot and pushes her friends away. Remember, she's still a girl; if 17 (as Glinda was) is the age when people come to Shiz, she's likely 16 years old. It illuminates her character a bit.
Same for Eminence: Politics and activism go hand in hand. Elphaba probably wont be good at politics. Being Eminence may have a part in that. It is something that has to be dealt with and will be a large part of her life no matter what. Some munchkins may support her. Elphaba probably wont take a large role as eminence. Frankly, the job sounds glamorous but actually being in charge would be dull. However, RidiculousMavis did a great fic called the Last True Eminent Thropp that dealt with it somewhat. I might write another, but not for awhile. I have like four other (short) stories for wicked I want to write and these two are so large already.
Sorry about the delay. I finished all my graduate coursework (forever) and got a hard case of the lazys. But I'm back and with a double size chapter.
A quick shout out: If you are not reading Out Live a Lie's the Rapport that Binds Us (or haven't read it's predecessor, The Ties that Bind Us), stop right here, go do that, review it, and then come back. Those two are amazing (as is A Flipside). For real.
I'm not joking.
Seriously, do it.
You back? Ok.
You're not lying, are you? Did you remember to review?
No? Go do that. I'll wait.
Done yet? Was it good?
No? Do it again. I'll still wait.
Good? Alright. As always: read, enjoy, review. Comments and Critiques welcome.
There's also a heatqueen blush warning aka smut at the end of this chapter. It does not come on subtly; in fact, it is as unsubtle as it can get.
5/16/14
(Did you check those out? Seriously, they're amazing).
Elphaba woke the next morning to feather touches along her neck and face. The touches traveled lower and then back up. Her slowly waking mind realized they were kisses. She cracked open one eye.
"Glinda?" she asked groggily.
"Good morning!" Glinda replied in a manner far too perky for Elphaba's taste.
"What time is it?"
"Time to get up. We have a lot to do today!"
"The ball's not until seven."
"I know but we have to have lunch first with the boys at three. That only gives us eight hours!"
"It's seven in the morning!"
"Yep. And I don't just have myself to do but you too."
"Glinda, I believe I've shown you I can do my own primping."
"Except you have to help Nessa. Which means we have to be done by noon at the latest, which only gives us two and a half hours each to get ready."
"It's never taken me that long to get ready in my life."
"Well, today will be a first then. Come on, Rae, get up." Glinda said, and began to kiss and cajole the green girl. Elphaba untangled herself from the blonde, allowing Glinda to get out of bed, but did not rise to follow. Glinda huffed, and then attacked her emerald with more kisses and wandering hands. Elphaba tried to shoo her away, but finally gave up. She turned over and glared at Glinda.
"You're not going away, are you?"
"Nope."
"Fine. I'll get up."
"Good, because we need breakfast."
Glinda bounced over to her closet and picked out a dress suitable for breakfast. Elphaba trudged to hers and picked out a random frock. She frowned as something seemed different.
"Glinda, have you been rearranging my closet?"
"What's there to rearrange?"
"Good point."
After breakfast Glinda went in the bathroom. She began filling the tub with water and took a deep breath to focus herself. She closed the faucet, took another deep breath, and began to will the water to change. She felt it shift; felt the universe try to keep it as it was. It was harder this time as there was more, and Glinda felt as she was in a tugging match with a bear. Gritting her teeth she strained against it and finally felt the spell release. She opened her eyes to see the tub filled with oil. She inhaled deeply; sandalwood, her favorite scent of Elphaba's. There was a knock at the door and Glinda opened it.
"Can I come in for a moment to grab my oils?" Elphaba asked and Glinda smiled.
"I think you should use sandalwood." Glinda said as she maneuvered out of Elphaba's way.
"I know you like it, my sweet, but I ran out early in the week." She answered with just a hint of annoyance.
"Really? There seems to be a whole tub of it right there." Glinda replied happily. Elphaba gave her a disbelieving look until her gaze caught the tub.
"Glinda, is that?"
"Yep."
"How?"
"Magic. I'm pretty good at it."
"I'd say so, my sweet."
"Rae, I love you, but this would be an opportune time to catch me."
"What?"
Elphaba looked back just in time to see Glinda swoon. She moved quickly to catch the dainty blonde before she could hurt herself. Cradling Glinda, she watched the blonde's eyes slowly flutter open.
"Mm. I like this." She breathed.
"Glinda, are you ok?"
"Yes. Just a bit tired. I realized I did not warm the oil, and I guess two large spells in rapid succession was a bit much for me."
"Are you sure you are alright?"
"Of course."
"Maybe we should see the nurse."
"Rae, I am fine."
"I feel like something should be done."
"Well…you could always let me join you in your bath."
"My bath?"
"Yes. What do you think I magicked an entire tub of water into oil for?"
"I hadn't quite thought on it."
"Then yes, your bath. I wanted you to know what one feels like."
"I don't even know what to say to that."
"Say you're going to let me join you?"
"I think you should rest while I enjoy my…bath. You look exhausted, and we can't have that, can we?"
"You and your logic. I'll go lie down, but you have to promise to enjoy your bath." Glinda replied.
"I'll try."
"Good." Glinda said and turned her chin hip. Elphaba took the sign and kissed her. Glinda left with a sigh.
Elphaba turned her attention back to the tub of oil. She was not unfamiliar with the concept of baths; she had after all helped Glinda not too long ago. Her lack of experience in bathing herself, however, presented a challenge. She decided her best course of action would be to simple mime what she had seen others do. The difference between water and oil would simply have to be discovered.
Elphaba slid her nightdress off, folding it carefully and placing it on the stool. She caught sight of herself in the polished mirror that hung over their sink. Scrawny arms socketed into a boney torso of indistinct figure. She sighed. Perhaps she should eat more. Leaving her nutritional habits for another time, she turned her attention to the matter at hand.
Walking next to the tub, she eyed it warily. Elphaba understood the principle of transformation; if one part of the object changed, the entire rest of the object changed. That did not still her fear of the mass of liquid. She cautiously bent down and smelled it. Sandalwood. Elphaba dipped a finger in it. No burning. Sighing, she willed herself to not be timid, and slowly lifted a leg into the tub. As the warm oil slid over her body she was engulfed in a feeling she could not quite describe. She slowly slid into it, inviting the welcoming heat.
It was a very strange sensation. The oil's weight pressed around her, constricting but at the same time loose. It was thicker, more viscous than water. Its heat permeated her in a manner she never knew possible. She slowly absorbed it, tilting her head back with a barely audible sigh. Elphaba had always thought Glinda silly for staying in her baths so long, but now she understood why. Her sweet had no way of knowing Elphaba had cleaned before going to bed last night, so she was not in any real need of a bath; however, Elphaba did let herself consider having Glinda do this again for her as she enjoyed the feeling.
Shaking herself out of that line of thinking, she slowly began to extract herself from the tub. As she expected, the oil made the process more difficult compared to getting out of a tub of water. Her careful deliberate movements soon made her astride the bathroom floor, and she quickly dried off. Looking at the tub of oil, she realized that letting it go down the drain would cause havoc on the plumbing; she would have to get Glinda to change it back.
As Elphaba returned to the room clad in her nightdress Glinda caught her sand sat her in front of Glinda's vanity. The blonde took up position behind her and began to braid a section of her hair.
"I hope you appreciate how difficult it was for me to design a hairstyle that let your gorgeous hair flow, but wasn't curled." She said exasperatedly, and Elphaba nodded her thanks, which earned her a swat and chastisement.
Glinda had braided two thick braids from the front and swept them to the back of her head, maneuvering them into an intricate bun. Then she made two more thick braids, and framed the bun with them, letting the excess hang free. Finally, she braided the rest of her hair into two thick braids, and then braided them together into a long, thick braid that flowed down her back. Not done yet, Glinda grabbed one of her hair clips, a pink flower, and placed it on the bun for accent. She turned Elphaba to examine it.
"It looks…pretty." Was all Elphaba could come up with.
"Good. It's supposed to. Now go make sure Nessa is up and moving." Glinda said, then snapped, "And don't touch that hair!"
Elphaba's hand paused mid raise and she smiled sheepishly. Glinda responded with her own, and went into the bathroom. She noticed that the tub was still full of oil. She sighed to herself as she was loathe to get rid of it. That amount could supply Elphaba for months. Glinda smiled. Taking out the wash bucket, she slowly began to fill it up with hot water. She allowed herself a good laugh at the irony of Elphaba taking a real bath and her a sponge.
Glinda walked out of the bathroom, her hair already in curls. After her revelation last week she had tracked down some cosmetic spells that were hidden in an obscure book of the sorcery section. It had helped her mitigate the preparation time for her hair. She had not done much to it as there were not many golden blondes out there, but had pinned it so it framed her face nicely.
Elphaba was currently tending to Nessa's hair as the girl sat on in front of the vanity. Nessa did not fuss or fidget, instead looking perfectly calm as Elphaba pulled and primped her wavy brown hair. By the time Glinda had chosen her's and Elphaba's undergarments and laid them out, Nessa's hair was done. Glinda glanced at the time. They still had a couple of hours left.
The next hour and a half was spent by Glinda doing her makeup and Elphaba doing Nessa's. Elphaba had refused makeup as it caused her skin irritation. Glinda had huffed but relented. She vowed to find something to put on her. Finally, the two girls helped Nessa into her dark green and gold dress, and draped the shawl across her shoulders. Nessa then left the two girls to finish by themselves.
While Glinda would have normally had lingered, they had only a short half an hour before they needed to meet the boys. As such she was brisk in changing her underclothes (taking delight in Elphaba's stifled inhale), and then forcing Elphaba to change. Elphaba did so with her customary shyness, putting chemise and petticoat on first before shucking her nightdress. Glinda quickly hopped into her own silver dress, and Elphaba briskly laced, buttoned, and fluffed it. Elphaba sidled into hers, needing only Glinda's help for the buttons along her back. She was taken aback by the pair of dress boots Glinda brought out for her.
"How?" was all Elphaba managed, and Glinda giggled.
"Remember that miscast that left dust all over the floor? I traced your footprint when you went to get a broom, and had a cobbler make them. They'll take some breaking in, but I'm sure they'll fit like your old miner boots. The cobbler said he used to make those and promised me so."
Elphaba slipped on one boot, and then the other. They were comfortable, even being new, and sturdy. Just how she liked her footwear.
"Thank you. I just…" Elphaba trailed off, and Glinda reached up high tiptoes and kissed her.
"You're welcome. But come on, we have no time."
Finally, the three girls were off to meet up the other girls and their minders. The Amas and Nanny saw them to their carriage, and then waved goodbye affectionately. The brunch location was vetted by the school, and as such would have plenty of supervision.
The boys met the carriage at the dining hall in their fine jackets and breaches. Avaric approached first in a cream and gold ensemble; colors Glinda knew to be Tenmeadows livery. He held out his hand, and Shenshen took it, giggling slightly. Pfannee scowled. Since it would have been improper for Avaric to escort two girls, Pfannee and Shenshen had flipped a coin, and Shenshen had won. Pfannee would instead be escorted by Tibbett.
He was there now, offering his hand to Pfannee. Being an Emerald City boy he emulated his city in his dress; bright green with gold accents. The cut of his clothing was more basic, but more militaristic than Avaric's, including the braided cords hanging from his shoulder. The entire ensemble set Elphaba to nerves, but she realized that it was most likely a holdover from when his father had to entertain.
Next was Boq. He was shy, as he barely could reach up to grasp Milla's hand, but she seemed pleased regardless. He was in a dark blue suit with light blue piping and accents. Glinda had known he originally wanted to wear green and gold as Nessa, but once he found out an heir was wearing it he had to change. Glinda was pleased her suggestion had been chosen. The colors made the Munchkin's eyes stand out. Not that Glinda agonized over how Boq look, but she did love when people looked their best. The matching dark blue dress of Milla also helped emphasize her red hair.
Next was Elphaba's turn. She went to her place a hand on the side of the carriage as to jump out, but Glinda almost saw her mind shift. Elphaba got out promptly, if not gracefully and turned to help Nessa down. Glinda was behind the girl, holding her steady while Elphaba guided from the front. The contrast was beautiful to Glinda's aesthetic eye; the waifish Nessa, a beauty in gold and green helped by the hawkish Elphaba, a sight (there was no other word to describe it) in her black and silver. It reflected the girls' role in life up to this point perfectly to Glinda; Nessa, the tragically beautiful coddled daughter helped and protected by the statuesque Elphaba, all hardened steel and business. Elphaba, true to her nature, fidgeted with Nessa's shawl to make sure it lay perfectly.
Glinda only realized she had been lost in thought when she heard Fiyero say her name. She took his hand and examined his clothing, and immediately added a mental note about Fiyero. His ensemble was cream with blue accents. On a man of lesser pigment it would cause them to look washed out; with Fiyero, however, it accentuated not only his skin but also the tattoos that were visible. It was in exceedingly good taste. Glinda smiled as he helped her down.
"Lost in thought?" he asked with a smile.
"Admiring our friends' impeccable good style. Speaking of which, where is Crope?"
"At the table, most likely sulking. It would suit his demeanor currently." Fiyero said as he led them inside. Glinda could see the tables filled with their peers.
"It must be terrible to be dateless." Glinda replied.
"Quite."
"Is that him in black and gold?" Glinda asked.
"Yes. He said it signified his family."
"I would wonder how so."
Crope stood as the girls neared and pulled out a chair to help Elphaba seat Nessarose. He then pulled out Elphaba's chair and she shot him a dark look, but he smiled. Perhaps due to his gloomy attire (or perhaps in sympathy to his current plight), she acquiesced to him seating her.
"To answer Miss Glinda's question," Crope said, "there are only two things that are unavoidable in life: death and taxes."
There was a great round of laughter that set off the conversation. The rest of brunch was merry affair.
After lunch, they had made their way to dinner. When they arrived at the ball location, the girls quickly made their way to the powder room to touch up before going to dinner. Elphaba walked behind the rest of the group as they made their way to their table. She had to keep her lips from curling in disgust at the excess around her. At least that they had not been lined up to be announced. She loathed nothing more at formal functions than being announced, even more so than the drivel that passed as conversation. When it happened, the chains of her inheritance always overshadowed her own name.
Not that she could be mistaken for anyone else. The green girl accompanying the armless one was so distinct that no one could ever miss or forget her. However, when people were first reminded of what she was they would change their actions towards her, and that was what she hated the most. Elphaba helped Nessa to her seat, and then allowed Crope to help seat her. She did it not because it looked proper but because it helped ease Crope's discomfort. Another reason to hate these things.
As the courses came there was light conversation. Elphaba helped Nessa eat while Glinda's steady hand helped her stay upright. Elphaba and Glinda were aware of the stares of the other students as most had never seen Nessa eat before. Elphaba was doing her best to contain her anger. She arched an eyebrow when Avaric stood up and walked to a nearby table.
"Hi. How are all you doing? Having a great night? That's good." He rambled off quickly, not giving them a chance to respond. "My name is Avaric, future Margreave of Tenmeadows. I couldn't help but notice you staring at the absolute beauty of the ladies at my table. Now, I know they're oblivious, but I felt it would be proper for me to thank you for the obvious compliment you are giving them. So thank you."
"Uh…" one of the boys managed to stutter and Avaric feigned confusion.
"What? Could that not be the reason? Perhaps it is because of our Vinkun friend? He does tricks you know. Fiyero, do the thing!" he said, and Fiyero obliged him by beginning to juggle some napkins (poorly). He dropped one and Avaric sighed.
"He still needs some work." Avaric said and then leaned in close. The rest of the Circle was aware of chaperones closing in. The next words were low and icy. "Now, I beg you to please try to reign in your admiration. For the ladies sake."
With that, he turned and sat back at the table. Grabbing his wine glass, he downed it and motioned for a waiter. As he got it refilled he drank deeply again. The stunned table looked at him. Glinda was speechless, Nessa mortified, and Elphaba could not find the words.
"Avaric…" Elphaba started but he cut her off with a flick of the hand.
"Do not think it was for your sake, Miss Thropp. I can't stand the fucking lack of manners by the bloody peasants. They have no fucking class." Avaric said harshly. No one at the table believed him, especially since their peers were mostly as highborn as themselves. They let the aristocratic boy save face, however, out of respect.
"I was merely going to say," Elphaba continued, "that I was surprised by the complexity. I did not think you had it in you."
"That's because, greenie, I don't prefer having anything in me. Quite the opposite, in fact." He replied and waggled his eyebrows suggestively. Elphaba laughed and the tenseness of the table disappeared. Conversation returned to normal until the band started warming up.
"Great. There goes any chance of meaningful conversation." Elphaba grumbled.
"Elphie, balls are for dancing and socializing, not philosophical debates." Glinda admonished, knowing her girlfriend would hate the answer.
"Which is why I shall sit here, and take part in neither."
"Count your blessings, Fabala, that you have the choice." Nessa put in. There was an awkward silence at the table until Glinda could take no more.
"Nessa," she said, turning to the girl, "self-deprecation is your sister's thing. Please don't start indulging. I could not deal with two morose Thropps."
The comment left the table looking aghast until Nessa let out a giggle and said, "Oh no, I wouldn't dare try to take that from Fabala. What would she do with herself?"
"Now see here…" Elphaba started but the laughter of the table drowned her out. She crossed her arms and slid into a sulk. Glinda would have almost called it pouting (but never where the girl could hear it).
"Well, it's that time gentlemen. Miss Shenshen?" Avaric asked, and held out his hand. Shenshen simpered and took it. Boq, Tibbett, and Fiyero did likewise. Glinda looked at Elphaba for a second before accepting Fiyero's hand. The two Thropps and Crope watched them go.
"I want to thank you, Elphie." Crope said quietly.
"I have no idea what you're talking about."
"A stumped Elphie? Never. But thank you nonetheless. You make it a little easier." He said the same melancholy tone.
"Well, if I have to put up with this hell, at least it's nice to have company." She replied and he smiled.
"Now, Fabala, really. You know this is nothing compared to actual hell."
"I'm going to get a drink." Crope said, standing. He did not want to be caught in the middle of another one of the sisters' philosophical-religious arguments. "Do you ladies want anything?"
"Another glass of wine." Elphaba said.
"Really, Fabala? You've had four already."
"And you another will have no effect on me, same as the last four."
"A glass of wine it is. Ladies." Crope said.
The two Thropp girls sat in silence until Crope returned with the wine. Nessa commented on the various décor and costumes of the attendees and Crope conspired on whether something was tacky or good looking. Elphaba stayed mostly quiet, interjecting here or there on something particular. After a few dances Fiyero and Glinda came back. Glinda was fanning herself lightly with her feathered fan.
"Whew. It's hot dancing in all of this." Glinda said politely.
"Quite." Fiyero added. "This stuffy clothing is far too excessive. I much prefer the Vinkun style of dancing."
"Half naked under the moonlight?" Elphaba quipped. He turned his wide smile on her.
"Only at fertility festivals our women so excitedly put on. Otherwise, robe clad."
"An interesting anthropological supposition." Elphaba said thoughtfully and Crope, Glinda, and Nessa groaned. Elphaba shot them a dark look.
"Perhaps, Miss Elphaba, I could steal you for a dance?" Fiyero asked. Glinda shot him a shifty look and Fiyero inwardly smiled.
"No, that is quite alright. I don't want to leave my sister." Elphaba deflected expectedly.
"But Miss Glinda is here, and she said wanted to rest for a little while." Fiyero replied, tightening the trap. Elphaba glanced at Glinda, whose look was starting to harden.
"Still, I should not want to steal her date." Elphaba countered. Fiyero had not expected that. He shifted tactics.
"Perhaps take a dance with Master Crope then, so as to alleviate his boredom."
Elphaba got her flinty look. She was caught not wanting to go but to turn down the offer would make it worse for Crope. She fell back on her tried and true reason.
"Still, I would have to leave Nessa and I shan't do that. No offense, Master Crope."
"None taken." Was his reply.
Fiyero was out of option but like a lighthouse in a storm a voice came out of nowhere.
"Perhaps I could be of assistance."
The table turned and saw a young man approaching. He was of medium height and build with brown hair; very plain looking. What was striking was his clothing. It was a blood red jacket and breeches accented in gold and black. He wore a half cape; something the boys thought was terribly out of style but that he carried well enough. Most shocking was the mask. It was bleach white.
"And who are you?" Elphaba practically hissed. This person set her on edge. Fiyero slowly began to shift his posture as the boy caused his hackles to rise.
"My apologies." The boy said as he stopped before their table, opposite to where the Circle members were. "I guess I'll break the cardinal rule of masques and tell you who I am."
He untied his mask and let it slip into his hand. The smiling face they saw was familiar to all but Nessa.
"Duran Fanel, at your service." He said with a slight bow.
"Nice to see you again, Master Duran." Fiyero said.
"Nice to see you too. You haven't come by the gym in a while."
"Been busy. I'll be back next week."
"Good to hear."
"Master Duran," came Nessa's voice, hard and cold, "though I consider rude to listen to other's conversation, I do not know how it is possible you can help."
"Quite simple, Miss Nessarose." He said, smile never leaving his face. "I was going to ask for the honor of dancing with you."
The members of the Circle went quiet. They all were wondering if he had not noticed that Nessa did not have arms. However, it was blatantly obvious at this distance.
"Master Duran, though I am honored by the request I am afraid I'll have to refuse." Nessa said politely. Elphaba could detect a slight quiver in her voice.
"I apologize. Were you not taught how to dance?"
"No, I was instructed in my youth."
"Am I too disreputable to your tastes?"
"Surely you jest, Master Duran, for even you could comprehend the reason!" Nessa snapped.
"I never jest when it comes to dancing, but I will admit I am still quite confused." He said, smile still present.
"I am…ill equipped." She said coldly. Elphaba could tell she was starting to lose control.
"I see." He said.
"Finally."
"If I may be so bold?"
"You're doing a fine job so far." Nessa came back, sounding much like her sister. It caused Elphaba to smile a bit.
"Someone once told you, or perhaps many someones; they said you cannot dance if you do not have arms, yes? And you believed it to be true. I am here to tell you that is false."
"What?" was Nessa near silent response.
"Yes. You see, when it comes to dancing, it is the hips and torso that matter. The arms are simply decorations. Fine ornaments that attach to the shoulders, where the real work of sensing the other person comes from. So, you see, you were told or taught by someone who valued aesthetic over substance. I am hoping to help you prove them wrong. Unless I am not to your liking?"
"Is that true?" Nessa asked.
"As I said, Miss Nessarose, I never jest when it comes to dancing."
"Then I would….I would like to accept."
"Well, if your sister would be so kind as to let me help you up, we can go." Duran said, pocketing the mask and moving around the table. Elphaba still barred his way.
"No one makes a fool out of my sister. So if this is some sort of sick joke-"
"Miss Elphaba," Duran replied, face finally serious, "as I said twice already: I never jest when it comes to dancing.""
Elphaba stood stonily in front of him until gentle words softened her stance.
"Fabala, please, I'll be fine." Nessa said.
"Nessie," Elphaba said, turning to her, "I just don't want to see you get hurt."
"I will be fine. Hover if you must, but do so out there."
"Fine. I will hover." She answered and helped Nessa up. Standing she was actually just barely shorter than Duran. He placed a hand on her back to guide her, and they moved to the floor. Elphaba watched intensely.
"Glinda, grab Fiyero and follow them." Elphaba ordered. Glinda popped up immediately and snagged Fiyero's arm. The pair headed directly for the floor. Elphaba then turned her fiery gaze on Crope. "Well, are you coming or not?"
The boy jumped out of his chair in a hurry. He was always shaken a bit when this Elphaba came out; not the fiery, passionate Elphaba, but the one that was almost a force of nature. He placed his wine glass down, tucked himself up and offered an arm. Elphaba quickly grabbed it, and almost dragged him to the floor.
"Now, Miss Nessarose," she caught Duran saying. They were on the outside edge of the floor. "While my right hand does not have to shift much to accommodate you, my left I will have to rest on the top of your shoulder."
"My dance instructors always placed their hands on either side."
"Which is fine if I only have to move you in one plane. By placing my hand on your shoulder, I can move you in two."
"I'll take your word for it."
"Thank you. How long has it been since you last danced?"
"About four years."
"Ah. We'll go slow then."
Elphaba watched as she slowly took up position with Crope. Duran gently eased Nessa onto the floor, and the young girl seemed very unsure. She stumbled numerous times and Elphaba barely resisted running to her. Every so often Elphaba saw Glinda and Fiyero float past, looking effortless. Elphaba would be envious later. After about ten minutes Nessa began to find a rhythm.
"Hey Elphie?" Crope said.
"Yes?" she answered distractedly.
"Can I lead? I think I'm doing an amicable job of faking it, but the male ego can only take so much."
"What?" she asked, finally looking at him.
"You're dragging me along the floor. It's bad for my reputation."
"Can you not mess it up?"
"Darling, there are many things I can't do. Dance is not one of them."
Elphaba relaxed and let Crope take lead. He was right; he was a good dancer. He was also superb at keeping them within sight of Nessa but not close enough to be appear to be hovering. Elphaba reminded herself to thank him later. Her thoughts must have shown on her face.
"We are all very protective of our little flower." He said good naturedly. Elphaba arched an eyebrow. "Oh yes. She can be a royal pain in the ass - get it, since she's in line to the governorship – and by Oz her bible thumping is annoying, but woe be on anyone who even wilts one of her petals."
"I never knew you were such a poet."
"Really?"
"Yes. You're acting is terrible."
Crope laughed at that.
"I never knew you all cared for her so much." Elphaba continued.
"We didn't at first." He said and she shot him a quizzical look. "But we care about you."
"Oh, you hopeless romantic. You're worse than Boq." She said exasperated and he chuckled.
"Remember when Boq thought you might have a crush on him." He said and they both got a good little laugh out of that. Crope quickly sobered up. "We care about you because you care about us."
"Nonsense. I barely tolerate you cads."
"Says the girl who has been going against her own independent streak to seem as if the only reason she isn't on my arm is because of her poor sister, thus saving me the embarrassment of being dateless heaped upon the rest of the wretched evening."
"As I said; such a hopeless romantic with these strange notions of yours. Since when are you the master of human motivations?"
"Can I tell you a secret?" he said and leaned in close to whisper. Elphaba normally would have flustered at a male being so close to her, but did not do so with Crope. "In acting we have a saying: show, don't tell. I've found with people it works the same. Avaric, though a licentious ass, has gone out of his way for Boq and even the rest of us. I know he cares. You, with all your bluster and hidden intentions that I wouldn't dream of puzzling out, show your caring with each action you take. Which is quite a bit, Miss Elphaba, since you're prone to be a girl of actions, not just words."
Elphaba flushed at the unabashed compliments of her character. Crope noticed and smiled.
"Now that's a color I've never seen on you before. Really, you must sit for me sometime. I'd love to try to capture the enigmatic Elphaba Thropp in portrait."
"And why have I never seen you drawing?" Elphaba maneuvered the conversation to safer ground. A quick check of Nessa showed her to be smiling with a laughing Duran.
"I mostly do human forms." Was Crope's quick retort. Elphaba looked at him due to his tone of voice and he winked. She smiled back.
"I hope you're a better artist than actor."
"Miles. But that's because I'm a hopeless romantic."
"I can honestly say I've never seen this side of you before."
"It's a combination of depression and alcohol that puts me in such a somber mood."
"Oh, the tale of the world."
"Don't worry, Miss Elphaba. By tomorrow I'll be back to being unscrupulous."
"I should hope so. What would I do with myself if you took over being depressing?"
Crope laughed at that.
A little while later Elphaba saw Nessa return to her seat and Duran bid her farewell. Elphaba hurriedly disengaged from Crope and rushed to her side. Her sister smiled as she saw her come over.
"Oh, Fabala, it was wonderful." She gushed. "I haven't felt that free in a long time."
"I'm happy, Nessa."
The rest of the Circle slowly returned to the table. They had all spotted Nessa dancing and they complimented and joked with her. Elphaba watched Nessa drink in the attention. For a moment she looked like just another girl at a ball. After some time Elphaba noticed Nessa glancing in a particular direction. Elphaba followed her gaze and noticed Duran speaking with a group. She realized Nessa wanted to dance again but could not work up the courage to ask. Elphaba was trying to figure out how to approach the situation, as tact was not her strong suit, when Fiyero cut through her line of vision. He began to speak within Duran, who replied while gesturing with his hands. This continued for several minutes and Elphaba frowned.
"I see, Master Fiyero," Duran was saying, "but I do not wish to monopolize Miss Nessarose's time."
"I assure you she would appreciate it." Fiyero replied.
"You misunderstand." Duran said, and took a step away from the group, lowering his voice, "The purpose was to show Miss Nessarose she can dance. If it is I she continually does so with then she will think it is I that enables her to do so."
"I think I'm beginning to see."
"Good. So I'll make you a deal. The song that has just started has a spin at the end where dancers traditionally switch partners while transitioning into the next song. When that happens, I shall switch partners with you. After that you gentlemen must take up dancing with Miss Nessarose as I have several others I have promised time to, and have to leave early at that. Do we have a deal?"
"Deal."
"Good." Duran smiled and turned to walk over to the Charmed table. His smile broadened as Nessa saw him and her face lit up.
"Miss Nessarose; I apologize for taking up so much of your attention but, if you are so inclined, may I ask for another dance? I'm afraid I am short on time tonight and have several other requests I must get to, but could not possibly leave without one more dance from you." He said. The table thought the flattery was a quite thick but the sincerity behind the words made it work. Glinda thought he was quite charming, and thus quite dangerous. Her mother had always warned her to beware of a charming man.
"I'd be delighted to, Master Fanel." Nessa replied happily.
Duran once again led her out onto the floor. Fiyero moved to intercept Elphaba as she going for Crope but Glinda attempted to catch him, but was too late. Glinda snagged Crope and went after them. Fiyero gave Elphaba a smile as they began to dance. It was more formal than their previous dances but Fiyero was nonetheless skilled. As the song began to transition Fiyero spun her and someone went past. She came out of the spin in Duran's arms and turned to see Nessa with Fiyero. Her sister was laughing.
"Miss Nessarose, your shawl." Fiyero said and went to adjust it.
"Oh, leave it, Master Fiyero. Just dance with me." She laughed.
Elphaba watched as they moved and then turned her attention back to Duran. She instantly stiffened up. Duran, however, slowly moved them through the motions, gentle but firm. Elphaba had not actually danced with anyone who was similar to him but wondered if this was what she felt like to dance with.
"You seem surprised, Miss Elphaba." He said politely.
"More like irritated, Master Fanel." She replied curtly.
"I apologize if my actions have set you at unease."
"Never so much as that. I just do not like surprises."
"Well, I apologize for surprising you then. However, I do hope it has pleased you."
"It has, Master Fanel."
"Good. Now, the song is ending and I have to be getting on." He said and led them off the dance floor. The other two couples followed. He gave her a look over and smiled. "I must say, you do look beautiful in that dress."
"My obstinate roommate has impeccable taste."
"And Miss Glinda looks radiant as well." He said as they neared the table. He looked around. "If you all could keep a secret? I must say that this is the best dressed group here. All the women are absolutely stunning."
"You flatter far too much." Elphaba said.
"Perhaps." He said with smile and a shrug. A purple and gold monstrosity ambled up to them.
"Miss Nessarose!" Madame Morrible belted. "Was that you I saw on the dance floor?"
"Yes it was, Madame."
"I must say, I never thought I'd see the day."
Elphaba and Nessa flushed at the tacit insult. Fire began to rise in Elphaba and she was about to spew it forth when,
"Madame, as I told Miss Nessarose; those who think arms are needed for dancing are fools." Duran said with a smile. The headmistress flushed at the comment, and the three girls remembered her words from their interview. They all kept their faces stoic.
"And who might be this young man? His bearing seems to be rustic in nature." She added sweetly. The insult was not missed.
"My name is Duran Fanel. At your service, headmistress." He said with a bow. "It is a treat to see your grand visage."
"You own is quite the sight. A half-cape? How classic. I haven't seen one worn to a ball since I was a young girl."
"I'm quite an aficionado of the past century and could not resist."
"Your taste in colors is also very unique."
"Thank you, but I could never hope to have so much taste as you, headmistress."
"You do me great compliments, Master Fanel." She said but her face was betraying her displeasure. "However, I have to be off. I have many great demands on my time."
"I hope someday we meet in a less formal setting with less impediments on our time, headmistress." Duran replied and the tone of his voice left much unsaid. Morrible looked at him, but then simply nodded her head.
"Quite. Now, my girls, do not stay out too late and don't go home with any one uncouth."
With that she was off. The table let out a collective breath and then laughed when Duran threw a rude gesture at the departing headmistress' back. He turned back to the table.
"Well, that was fun. Anyway, my ladies, gentlemen; I must be off. Goodnight." He said and spun, fluttering his maligned half-cape. The boys collectively decided that he pulled it off exceptionally well.
As the night wore on Avaric slowly sobered up. He had something on his mind, but kept his mannerisms to seem as if he had been drinking. Finally, when he saw what he was waiting for, he stood shakily.
"I'll be back." He slightly slurred. He picked his way carefully through the seats, maintaining his appearance of intoxication. Finally, he made his way to the door and out it just in time to see his target start to walk off. He approached quickly.
"Vigiles." Avaric hissed quietly. The person turned with a smile.
"Ah. I see you know of that." The man replied. His smile was still not gone.
"Of course. I am going to be the Margreave of Tenmeadows. My father told me of the Vigiles."
"I began to wonder if the leading families told the old tales anymore."
"Only fools do not tell their children of the Vigiles. Those who keep order outside the law."
"And you know why, correct?"
"Of course. It is the way of the world."
"Good. Now, did you need me for something?"
"No. I just wanted you to know that I knew. You're not all what you appear to be, Master Fanel."
"None of us are. You know how to reach me if you need me." Duran replied and spun again, cape fluttering in the cool spring breeze. Avaric watched him go and then turned back to the party. Now he was going to get drunk.
As the ball ended the Circle got into a carriage. They were not headed back to their particular dorms just yet; instead, they were heading to Avaric's residence. The Margreave (a widower) was out of town on business. As such Avaric had the entire house to himself, including the wine cellar.
The party at Avaric's was as raucous as to be expected of young men and women with an open wine cellar. The party started with drinking and dancing, all of the boys and girls taking turns switching partners. Glinda got her dance with Elphaba as the partners switched. The boys were dancing with the boys and the girls with the girls. Glinda giggled the entire time. Elphaba had to fend off Glinda's amorous hands, and also those of Pfannee, and curiously, Shenshen. Even Milla held the green girl closer than she was comfortable with. None of the boys dared to take such measures, except for a drunken Crope who tried to sneak a hand to her bottom. She slapped his hand and that was the end of that.
Dancing was abandoned as coordination was lost and heads started to spin of their own accord. The Circle compensated by drinking more. They had passed the comfortable level of drunk and moved onto roaring, where lewd comments and suggestions were the norm. Elphaba never felt more than a slight buzz. When the boys started to strip out of their clothing Elphaba called it a night.
"Well, that seems to be good for us. Thank you for your hospitality Avaric, but we must get going." She said abruptly. A giggling Glinda stared at here bleary eyed.
"No need to go, greenie. You can stay." Avaric leered.
"Yes. Why not?" Fiyero asked. He wobbled on his feet.
"Because I'd rather sleep in my own bed without having to worry about tending to the regrets of others."
"Wh-what?" Fiyero asked.
"Never mind. Come, Glinda." Elphaba said as she walked Nessa out the door. Elphaba had to hold onto her sister as she could barely stand upright. Glinda, holding her shoes in her hand, followed unsteadily.
Elphaba stopped by where Pfannee and Shenshen were laying on Avaric, and where Boq had his head in Milla's lap.
"Are you ladies coming?"
"No. I think I shall stay." Pfannee replied.
"Me too." Chimed Shenshen.
"Miss Milla?"
"No. I'll stay too."
"Fine. It is your choice." Elphaba said and walked them out to the carriage.
The trip up the stairs at Crage was a chore. Elphaba had to almost carry Nessarose, and stopped frequently to make sure Glinda had not been lost. However, the blonde seemed to have sobered up slightly. Elphaba dropped Nessarose off with a still awake Nanny, and helped Glinda into the room. She helped the girl peel out of her dress and underclothes. Glinda stumbled to the bathroom, and Elphaba used the time to shift into her own nightdress.
A little while later Glinda came back with a goofy smile on her face. Elphaba was puzzled but took her turn in the bathroom. She went to have a quick cleaning, and noticed another rag was already wet with oil. Realizing Glinda must have washed, she shook her head and cleaned herself. She then slipped back into her nightdress and walked out.
She was stopped in her tracks by the sight of a very naked Glinda. The blonde was humming some tune and swaying. Elphaba was entranced by how she moved in the moonlight but her pragmatic side soon reasserted itself. She moved over to the girl and placed her hands on her shoulders. Glinda turned around.
"Rae." She said happily.
"Yes my sweet. But we should get off to bed."
"But I don't want to. I want to do this instead." Glinda replied devilishly and pushed Elphaba. The tall girl's back hit the wall and Glinda pounced on her. Her mouth hungrily planted kisses and bites up her chest and collarbone. Elphaba groaned.
"Damnit Glinda, you're drunk."
"You bet your ass I am. Speaking of which." The blonde wrapped her hands around and grabbed Elphaba's butt. "So firm."
"Look, Glinda, I don't want this if-"
"Elphaba; I'm drunk, I'm horny, and I want you. By Oz, how I want you." She gasped and bit down hard on Elphaba shoulder. The green girl groaned again. "If you don't want it, say so; I won't force you. But if you do, tell me."
"Of course I want you."
"Good. Now, I'll make you a deal. I don't know how long I'll last. I'm kind of starting to crash already."
"Perhaps we should-" Elphaba started but groaned when Glinda bit her again.
"I thought you liked that. No, Rae, I want sex and I want it now. As I was saying, I'll make you a deal. I'll do you, then you can make me, and then finally you once more, and then we can go to bed."
"Why not just let me help you?"
"Two reasons: One, I'll feel bad. I know you get horny when you watch me."
"That's not true-" Elphaba stopped as Glinda nibbled. She tried to glare down at the blonde but she was met with a wicked smile and innocent eyes.
"Don't lie to me. You like to watch; you've been doing it since before we were together. I caught you, remember? Anyway, watching you come makes me hot, and I want to have one right after you. Then, since you'll be going again, the last one will be for you. So, really, it goes one of yours for me, one for me, and then yours. Is that ok with you?" she giggled.
"Fine. Let's get to the bed."
"Oh no. I want it here."
"H-here? Against the wall?"
"Mmmhhmmm. Your nipples are perfect height for nibbling," she said and nipped at them through the nightdress, "and as for, you know, I have an idea."
Elphaba started to ask but the blonde wedged a leg in between hers. Glinda slid her hands off of Elphaba's butt and to her waist. The green girl sagged slightly, grinding against Glinda's thigh and hip. Elphaba let out a deep, guttural groan and Glinda smiled. She used her hands to begin rocking her emerald lover against her, eliciting moans and gasps. Confident Elphaba got the idea, Glinda slid her hands over Elphaba's breasts and to her shoulders. She shucked the nightdress down to the green girl's tiny waist.
"Glinda." Elphaba breathed.
The blonde dipped her head to captured one of the dark green buds, sucking it between her lips. One hand captured the other, rolling it between her fingers while the other hand traced lines and circles from Elphaba's hip to waist and back. Elphaba threw her head back and moaned, lacing her fingers through Glinda's hair. The slight tugging always stoked Glinda's fire. She grazed her teeth across Elphaba's bud, and the laced fingers clenched together, sharply tugging. It hurt a bit but Glinda did not mind. She liked it and a moan escaped her own closed lips. Elphaba looked at her with pleasure clouded eyes.
"I'm sorry." She breathed. "Did I hurt you?"
"Just a little. I didn't mind it." Glinda answered back. Elphaba stared at her confused. Glinda, even in her drunken haze could tell the girl was backing off her physical pleasure for a riddle of the mind. So Glinda decided to cloud her mind some more. Being as gentle as possible, she closed her teeth on of her love's dark buds. Elphaba bucked and Glinda opened her mouth lest an unfortunate incident occur.
"See? Just a little goes a long way." Glinda giggled and released the bud in her hand to grind the emerald girl against her hip. Her mouth went back to its ministrations and long emerald fingers laced tightly through blonde curls.
The rocking of hips increased in pace and Glinda knew Elphaba was getting close. The blonde surged forward, attempting to set the taller girl completely off the ground and on her hip. It did not work, of course, but it pressed Elphaba to the tips of her toes. She was able to drop down to increase the friction against Glinda's thigh. The first almost stole her breath, and Glinda nails lightly rolling her nipple and tracing down her thigh did steal her breath.
Elphaba's breathing came ragged now as green hips drove down against pink, urgently searching for release. Her legs began to quiver, throwing off her rhythm. Elphaba tried to regain it but the harder she tried the more broken her rhythm became. She whimpered and felt small hands lift her hips and force her back down. She let Glinda guide her, focusing only on the movement and her own release. Finally, it came, and Elphaba let out a high, guttural moan as she collapsed against her pale lover. Glinda slowed the movement and planted soft kisses against her collarbone and neck. She stepped back and let Elphaba sag against her.
"I never knew you were so strong, my sweet." Came the rasping whisper.
"Drunk strength. I'll be sore tomorrow."
"Won't we all."
"Did you want to move to the bed or did I break you?" Glinda giggled.
"I was broken before, my sweet. You make me whole."
"Aww, that's so sweet. I hope I remember that tomorrow. Now, sex or no?"
Elphaba sighed and looked at her beloved girl. There was a slight glisten to her skin; most likely from the heat of their bodies. Elphaba's libido jump started again. She reached down and scooped the blonde up into her arms. Glinda giggled and wrapped her legs around Elphaba, who proceeded to walk them to the bed. She bent over low and attempted to gracefully depart Glinda on the bed. She misjudged and they landed with a plop, causing Glinda to giggle again.
"Not how I planned it." Elphaba grumbled good naturedly. Glinda giggled and pulled her close for a deep kiss. Elphaba's mind, however, would not waver from the task at hand. She reached up and caressed Glinda's breasts, causing the blonde to gasp. Elphaba used the chance to snake kisses down her neck, paying special attention to special spot. Glinda's grip on her loosened and she trailed her kisses down her lover's chest and stomach. She pushed back off the bed and knelt on the floor.
"Rae…what?" Glinda gasped but it turned into a deep moan as Elphaba set to her task.
Elphaba was methodically in her motion, attentive to Glinda's reactions, and motivated by her own passion. As such, her mouth zeroed in on Glinda's most responsive area, and engulfed with her mouth. Her long finger curled inside Glinda, sending the blonde into shivers of ecstasy. She could not think. Normally the build to the edge was a slow, easing affair; here she was being driven towards it. She could not fight it, could not be distracted. She could do nothing but whimper and enjoy.
Soon, in a time shorter than she had ever experienced, Glinda dug her fingers into Elphaba's hair and pulled her close as she came crashing over the edge. Elphaba slowed and broaden her attentions but did not stop. Glinda shuddered once, twice, three times as the successive waves of her orgasm rolled over her. She whimpered and moaned as Elphaba slowed her movements and let out a shuddering breath. Elphaba disengaged with a pop and smiled at her.
"Adequate, my sweet?"
"Very." She replied dreamily.
"From the sound of your voice I think we should call it a night."
"One clock tick." She replied. "I'm not so focused as you, to be able to come and then just hop back on it. You have to give me a few."
"My sweet, it is not necessary-"
"I'm too drunk to go over this again. You coming again, whether you like it or not."
"If you say so, my sweet."
"I like the sound of that."
"Don't get used to it."
"I figured." Glinda rolled up and moved over on her bed.
Elphaba climbed onto it and lay on her back. As she did Glinda watched the motion of her breasts. Laying down they were almost invisible except for the darkened areola and nipples. Glinda half mounted her and dipped her head to capture one in her mouth. The hand not supporting her crept low, but Elphaba's hand stopped her.
"Please Rae?"
"No."
"But you let me last time."
"Glinda…"
"You can keep it covered, and I promise I won't look at anything other than your eyes. I just want to feel you again."
"I don't know why."
"Yes you do. You're not dense."
"I just don't understand it."
"Someday, Rae, you will, and you'll let me see all of you."
"I don't think so."
"That's for the future, now, just let me help."
"Ok."
The blonde watched/felt her emerald love drop one of her hands to caress herself. As she started rubbing, Glinda's hand followed and she gently slipped her finger inside. Elphaba gasped and her hand increased the pace. Glinda smiled and dipped her head low, taking one of her love's nipples in to her mouth. Remember the emerald girl's like for intense play, she sucked forcefully on it while propping herself up on her elbow to capture the other nipple between fingers.
Elphaba moaned and increased her speed. True to her word, Glinda's eyes stayed focused on Elphaba's face. Her expressions enthralled the blonde. The emerald girl's eyes were closed and there was an intense look of concentration on her face. Her jaw clenched, and the chords in her neck stood out. As Glinda sensed Elphaba getting nearer, her love inhaled and sucked her bottom lip in between her teeth. The need in her face drove Glinda wild and had she been like Elphaba she was sure that she would have gone for another round.
Elphaba's breath became ragged. She inhaled sharply, held her breath, and then exhaled again. She arched her neck, flexing the sinews therein. Her brow furrowed deeper; deeper than Glinda saw when even when Elphaba was stuck on some sort of problem. Her entire body began to arch but Glinda inhibited it, wanting to stay close. Finally, there was a deep clench and Elphaba let out a groan of intense pleasure. She shook violently as she came, and as the last waves washed over her she opened her eyes to meet Glinda's. The look of pure adoration sent the emerald girl in paroxysms of pleasure again. Glinda was amazed watching her love come twice in such quick succession. Finally, Elphaba calmed, and opened her eyes once more. Glinda slowly withdrew her finger and cleaned Elphaba from herself once more with her mouth. It sent shudders through both girls again.
"That could soon become my favorite flavor." she giggled.
"You shall slay me, my sweet."
"Nope. Now, bed time. I am tired."
"Clothes?"
"What do you think?"
"Then I shall need to lock the doors. " Elphaba said and did so. She came back snuggled next to the almost asleep blonde. "Fond dreams, my angel."
Elphaba woke to the shifting of the bed. It was late and just by the moonlight she could see Glinda hurrying to the bathroom. She sighed and followed her as the first sounds of retching came. Elphaba contemplated how sometimes love could be going on dates, but also holding that person's hair as they vomited.
This chapter covers the date of the 3rd of Highspring.
(For reals, go check out Out Live a Lie's wicked stories.)