#Might be fiyero though I'm not sure

[delespresso]

DETESTATION ━━ Fiyero x fem!reader

author's note; this was previously titled 'kiss me' lol. i cant lie, i was sort of just winging it with this one — i've been doing a lot of rivals to lovers u guys, my brain is a little confused now 😭 idk if i liked this but i hope its good! <3

prompt; “You can’t just…kiss me to win a fucking argument, [NAME]!” “You’re right…but did it work?” ps; i changed it up a bit, oops

summary; the constant back and forth was totally out of total detestation. . . right?

━━ ☄. *. ⋆

It was the third invite to the Ozdust Ballroom within the month.

Ever since the Winkie Prince showed up at Shiz a few months back, he's been influencing quite a few trips to the scandalocious venue. In fact — he started it immediately on his first day.

She didn't plan on going this time either. Even if the invite had come directly from him, while he was following her tail all over campus.

"C'mon, princess, it'll be fun," Fiyero urged as he walked behind her like a little puppy.

Typically, she refused to even be in his vicinity. With her luck though, somehow Doctor Dillamond decided he needed a tutor to push him through history class — so of course, she was chosen, being the current top student.

"Think of it as me thanking you for helping me ace history," Fiyero continued.

He did, in fact, ace his history after that. A whole A solid.

"For the millionth time, Fiyero, no," she huffed.

He rolled his eyes at another rejection, still following her as they found their way into the dining hall. It was sparse at the moment, they were quite early this time.

"Your welcome for history. But that's it," she added.

She grabbed a tray, starting to put food on it. As she did though, the infuriatingly charming — and annoying — prince stole a piece right out of her plate.

"You should learn to live a little. See the nightlife. Go dancing. We don't live forever, you know?"

She stared up at him as he just went on his little ramble about life.

"If you're worried about a dance partner—"

"I really don't care—"

"I'm sure Boq is very kind to help in that," Fiyero said with a sly smirk.

Respectfully, Boq was nice and cute in a way, but she would much rather drink a tub of toxic elixir.

She could only scoff in response, picking up her tray and finding a seat. Still he refused to let up.

"One night. Its just one night, it really won't kill you," Fiyero insisted.

"It won't, but I might kill you."

She set her tray down with a huff, but she didn't get the chance to sit yet before he was pestering her again.

"I've lived quite well, I wouldn't mind dying at your hands," he shrugged.

"Are you serious right now?" she scoffed. "I have a fork and knife an inch away from my hands, don't tempt me."

"Oh, how horrifying," he mock gasped.

Oh, this little—

"Truthfully, I find a death by my history tutor to be a beautiful exit," he continued with a smug grin.

"You have no sense of self preservation. My hands would be a painful way to die," she retorted.

He didn't miss a beat, grabbing her hands in his in such an oddly gentle manner that had her brain crashing for a moment.

"These soft hands? I find that hard to believe."

She blinked rapidly, just staring at the way he held her hands to his chest for no reason. Why was her head spinning? Why was her pulse rushing?

"You're infuriating," she managed to hiss as she pulled her hands away.

Really, she had no idea why this man annoyed her so much. She felt an irrational amount of irritation when he was around. Her head would sometimes go empty when she looked at him, her heart suddenly going too fast and her stomach feeling like it was floating.

Dislike. Pure, utter, dislike. Loathing, perhaps. Detestation.

Those were the only acceptable answers.

She ended up taking her lunch to go, bringing it with her to eat somewhere else where she could escape him.

"Come dancing tonight!" he tried again even as she stomped away from him and replied over without turning back.

"Eat grass!"

It was her roommate that dragged her to the Ozdust Ballroom that night. No one else.

Certainly not the persistent, annoyingly handsome prince. No.

She allowed herself to have fun for a while, dancing around with her roommate. She didn't catch a single glimpse of him so she assumed he bailed.

She would be absolutely wrong when she ended up twirling right into his arms.

Fiyero's hands were on her waist, keeping her right there as her hands ended up on his biceps. He grinned down at her, that casual and laidback smile he always had.

"You came."

"Not because of you."

He chuckled at her quick defensiveness. It was cute to him. Taking her hand, he gave her a quick whirl before pulling her close again.

"Of course not," he agreed.

"Plenty of other reasons to come to a party," she nodded.

"Mhm."

"Nice ambience, people in nice outfits," she started to list aimlessly.

"Yes, they do dress up nice," he continued to agree.

"Good music, exceptional dancing—"

"You dance well."

"Random excuse to dress myself up too—"

"You look lovely."

"The lights are quite nice too, all blueish—"

She didn't get the chance to keep yapping when suddenly a pair of warm lips were on hers. It felt like she was on fire. A good kind of fire. When she opened her eyes again and their lips parted, she met his gaze under the lights.

Her lips were parted, her breath catching. Her face was definitely flushing and Oz— her head was reeling. She was too flustered she ended up fumbling her words.

"You can't just kiss me to win an argument, Fiyero!"

He laughed at her reaction. In hindsight, he should've probably not do it out of nowhere. But her reaction was priceless.

"Yeah, probably not. But it shut you up," he mused.

She stared up at him, eyes wide as she was clearly baffled.

"You need to stop finding excuses, princess," he teased, giving her yet another whirl.

Her dress flared out before she ended up back with him, flush against his chest. Whatever she felt for him was strong. Though she was starting to suspect it wasn't actually detestation.

She'd likely been in denial.

"You need to not kiss someone without permission," she retorted anyway.

Fiyero only smiled, but at least he nodded sincerely with a bit of a shrug.

"Fair enough. Sorry," he agreed. "Can I have a redo?"

She raised a single brow up at him, this time catching up with the dance way better than when she initially ended up in his arms. A coy, almost teasing smile pulled on her lips as she casually ended up leading the dance.

"Let's see your dancing first, Winkie Prince."

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[munsonsmixtapes]

I'm Not That Girl

Fiyero Tigelaar x shy!fem!reader

summary: you think Fiyero is only flirting you to be nice because you're not the kind of girl he usually goes for, but he's more than eager to set the record straight when confusion arises

This is based on a comment made on this post by @cultish-corner!

Nothing but anxiety courses through you the second you step foot on campus. You don’t know anyone and are nothing but nervous to be in a new place with new people. That’s your worst nightmare, you think, as you walk throughout the campus to the suite you were assigned, you can’t help but feel like everyone is staring at you, but absolutely no one is paying you any mind as you make your way down the hallway, repeatedly looking down at the sheet you’ve received to make sure you have the right room.

This is the first time you’ve ever been away from home for an extended period of time and you hate that you already miss it. But you’re excited for a new adventure. Even though you’re nervous, you’re still looking forward to what your time at Shiz will bring you. You’re looking forward to a change.

You’re so focused on looking at the sheet that you’re not even looking when you bump into something, or rather, someone. The collision causes your things to fall out of your hands and onto the floor, causing the stranger to drop to their knees, picking it all up rather quickly before holding your suitcase and papers out to you, a flirty smile on his pretty face that you only see out of the corner of your eyes because you’re afraid of making eye contact with him. 

“Here,” he says, handing the paper to you, still holding onto your suitcase which confuses you.

“Oh,” you reply. “Thank you.” 

He’s easily the prettiest man you’ve ever seen and you can’t help but be distracted by his striking blue eyes that definitely have a very flirty glint in them. You immediately recognize him as the prince you had seen in the newspaper not too long ago, seeing that he’d transferred here. You know all about his reputation, but that doesn’t stop you from wanting to speak to him. In fact, it makes you want to do it even more.

“It’s my pleasure. I am so sorry for my clumsiness,” he apologizes even though it was very obviously you who ran into him. “I guess I was just so distracted by your beauty.” You don’t care if it’s a line, it works, causing your cheeks to heat as you tuck your chin to your chest, not wanting him to see you. 

“My apologies,” he sticks his hand out and takes free one, causing you to finally look up at him and you’re captivated by his pretty, blue eyes. “Fiyero Tiglaar, Winkie Country,” he says as his lips press a soft kiss to the top of your hand. 

“I-I’m y/n,” you introduce yourself, your voice still too soft for your liking. 

“Y/n,” he repeats your name slowly, a flirty tone to it and you just know that he does this with everyone he comes across, but you hope, you pray that this is different. You want him to be flirting with you because he thinks you’re pretty, not because he can. “I think that might be my favorite name of all.” 

“Now, shall we?” He asks, moving to stand beside you, offering you his arm and you loop your own arm through it before he reaches over and grabs hold of your luggage. 

“Where are we going?” You ask, your voice so low that Fiyero is almost unable to hear you. 

“I’m going to walk you to your room,” he says with a bright smile, leading you down the hallway, everyone who’s around whispering as the two of you walk together. It’s no secret that he’s popular, how could he not be with his looks and charm? And seeing him with you, the shy, new girl will definitely stir up some rumors. 

Your room is just down the hall and even though he’s only just met you, Fiyero doesn’t want to leave you. He wants you to invite him inside where the two of you sit on your bed and get to know each other. He wants to know everything about you. He wants to know where you grew up, what your hobbies are, whatever you want to tell him because he likes the sound of your voice.

“We’ll, here we are,” he says, hesitantly removing his arms from yours as you step away before taking your suitcase back from him. “It was a pleasure.” He bows then stands there, almost like he’s waiting for something. 

“Here we are,” you repeat, wondering what it is that he’s wanting. He should at least be halfway down the hall by now.

“Tomorrow, you should sit with me in the dining hall. I’d really enjoy your company,” he smiles and you nod in response. 

“I’d really like that,” you tell him, still nodding, feeling a warmth creep on your cheeks as you do so. You don’t know why you take him so seriously. Guys like him don’t ever give you so much as a second glance let alone a lunch invitation. By tomorrow, Fiyero will forget all about you.

The hallway is quiet and empty when you sneak out of your room. You can’t sleep because of how nervous you are for your first day of classes. Especially since it’s a few months into the year and you’re the only new person. Everyone else has gotten the chance to know each other and you’re new. 

It’s taking everything in you not to pack up your stuff and leave so you don’t have to face anyone tomorrow. You don’t care if it’s dramatic or that you’re overreacting, it’s not like anyone will miss you anyway. You always seem to fade into the background no matter what’s going on and that’s the way you like it. You hate being the center of attention and know that it will distract you from your first day if everyone is staring at you. 

You close the door gently and turn around slowly, letting out a yelp as you see Fiyero leaning against the wall across from you. He’s in his pajamas so you’re led to believe that he can’t sleep either. And he can’t, but not for the same reason as you. He’s just not tired and that’s not uncommon for him. He often has trouble sleeping. But tonight, he’s hoping you’ll keep him company so he doesn’t have to go back to bed alone. 

He pushes off of the wall and steps over to you, moving slowly because he can see that he’s startled you. You take a step forward and he can’t help but stare at you, wondering what you’re also doing up so late. 

“What are you doing up?” He asks, his eyebrows furrowing in both confusion and worry. He wants to reach for you, but he decides against it. If there’s going to be any touching, he wants you to be the one to initiate it. 

“Couldn’t sleep,” you shake your head and he nods in understanding. His face softens and that infectious smile spreads across it. You can’t help but mimic him and that’s definitely something he could get used to seeing more often. 

“Me neither,” he replies then offers his hand out to you. “Would you like to go somewhere with me?” Go somewhere with him? You look this way and that to make sure there’s no one else he could possibly be talking to and he just laughs in response, a little too loudly for your liking. 

You step closer and press the palm of your hand to his lips to muffle his laughs and you both widen your eyes at your boldness. His eyes soften before yours do, more laughs spilling from his mouth as he pulls your hand away, holding it in his. 

“You’re going to get us in trouble,” you whisper to him and his laughs slowly turn into chuckles as he gives your hand a squeeze. 

“You need to relax,” he shakes his head. “And besides, trouble is my middle name.” You roll your eyes at his words and Fiyero really likes being able to more of your personality. “So,” he steps closer to you so that you’re toe to toe. “Are we going or what?” 

You’re not sure why, but you’ve found yourself to be at ease with him. He’s one of the only people who hasn’t had any problem with how shy and soft-spoken you are. He even seems to like it, not minding in the slightest having to get closer to hear what you have to say. In fact, he seems to prefer it.

“Yes,” you nod. “Let’s go.” 

“So you’re just going to blindly follow a man that you barely know to an unknown location where anything could happen to you?” He teases as he pulls you down the hallway and you never thought about it that way, and if it had been anyone else, maybe you would be worried, but not with Fiyero. “Well, y/n, I thought you knew better than that.” 

“And the same goes to you, Tigelaar,” you retort. “I could just as easily be as dangerous.”

“Somehow, I just don’t think that’s true. You’re far too sweet.” You hate that he’s right. It wouldn’t even cross your mind to hurt someone unless they made the first move. 

“You don’t even know me.” And he hates that he doesn’t. He hopes that in the coming weeks that you’ll be friends or maybe even more, but he knows the latter is probably just wishful thinking. 

“And that’s exactly why I invited you to join me tonight. I want to get to know you. It’s also the reason why I invited you to eat with me in the dining hall.” You’re confused now. You thought he was just trying to be nice. And now you feel terrible for even thinking that he wasn’t being genuine.

“You were serious about that?” Fiyero is quick to turn around to face you, hurt flashing across his face. And seeing the pain expression on yours is making him feel even worse. He thought that his intentions were pretty clear, but apparently he had been wrong. 

“O-of course I was serious. Why would I joke about that?” He’s leaning closer to you, taking your hands in his gently as he pulls you closer, wanting you to look him in the eyes when he speaks. “I invited you because I want to spend time with you, to get to know you. Don’t let anyone ever tell you any different,” he says as he pushes some hair away from your face. 

“I know it sounds silly since we’ve only just met, but I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you since this morning.” The look in his eye is nothing but genuine and now you feel silly for thinking that he was anything but. 

“I thought it was just me,” you reply, your eyes lighting up. 

“No,” he shakes his head, leaning even closer to you as his hands move to rest in your hips, his eyes searching your face for any sign of discomfort or hesitance. “Can I try something?” He asks in a whisper, his eyes shifting your lips and you think you know what he wants to try. 

“Yes,” you reply as your eyes flutter shut, feeling his breath fanning your face as he leans down and presses his lips to yours in a gentle kiss. Your arms wrap around his neck as he pulls you closer to him, responding to his kiss as your lips slot between his, moving with them as best as you can. 

Fiyero pulls away before you’re ready and pulls you a few feet before spinning you into him, pressing another kiss to your lips. He then takes you to the gardens where you spend the rest of the night, talking about everything and nothing between sweet kisses until the sun comes up. You think it’s needless to say that you’re really going to like it at Shiz.

[multi-fandom-imagine]

➤𝐒𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐅𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 || Fiyero ||

A/n: Of course I'm writing something for this nan.

The first snow of the season blanketed the forests of Oz, muffling the world in soft white. You wrapped yourself tightly in a woolen cloak, your breath clouding the air as you made your way through the trees. A smile on your lips as you took in your surrounding of the snow covered trees.

You had ventured out to gather herbs for Nessarose, but the biting chill was slowing your pace but despite how cold you were you couldn't help but smile as you tilted your head back to catch snowflakes on your lashes. There was always something magical about winter, the stillness, the glow of snow in the sunlight, the way the world felt like it was holding its breath.

“Y/n!”

The familiar voice called out from behind you, you had turned to see Fiyero striding through the snow, his teal scarf trailing in the wind, his usually messy hair dusted with flakes but still he looked every bit the charming prince, his grin wide and infectious.

“Fiyero? What are you doing out here?” You asked, brushing a strand of your hair from your face.

“I could ask you the same thing,” he replied, stopping a few steps away. “Though I’m guessing you have a good reason. Herbs? Helping someone? Being your usual selfless self?”

You laughed softly, a grin forming at your lips. “Guilty. But what about you? Shouldn’t you be somewhere warmer?” You teased him as you stepped close.

He shrugged, shoving his hands into his coat pockets. “I saw you leaving and thought you might need some company. Snowy forests aren’t exactly friendly to wanderers.”

Your heart couldn't help but flutter at his words, though you tried to hide it. “Well, I can’t say no to company.”

The two of you walked side by side, your boots crunching in the snow with each step. The soft chirping of the birds echoing throughout the forest.

“Do you ever take a moment to just stop?” Fiyero asked after a while, his voice quieter. A frown was on his lips, brow furrowed in confusion.

Pausing, you tilted your head at him. “What do you mean?”

“You’re always doing things for others,” he said, gesturing vaguely. “Helping, healing, fixing. Do you ever just let yourself enjoy the moment? Do you ever just let yourself just breathe?"

You hesitated for a moment, glancing at the snowy trees around them. “I enjoy helping people. It’s who I am.” You shrugged the smiled.

“I know,” he said, stopping in his tracks as he stood beside you. You turned to face him, your breath catching at the intensity in his gaze. “But you deserve moments for yourself too."

A gentle silence fell between them, the only sound the faint rustle of the wind through the branches. Fiyero reached out, brushing a snowflake from your cheek his fingers lingered for just a moment, sending a warmth through you that chased away the winter chill.

“Let’s make this a moment for you,” he said, stepping back with a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Do you trust me?”

You raised an eyebrow. “That depends. What are you planning?” Still missing his touch but you quickly chased that feeling away.

Without answering, Fiyero crouched and scooped up a handful of snow, quickly shaping it into a ball. Before you could react, he tossed it gently at you, hitting your shoulder.

Your mouth fell open in mock outrage. “Oh, you’re asking for it now!”

You bent down and grabbed your own handful of snow, launching it at him. He dodged, laughing, and soon the quiet forest was filled with the playful shouts of you both as you chased each other, snowballs flying.

After a while, both of you collapsed into the snow, breathless and grinning. You laid on your back, staring up at the pale winter sky. Fiyero propped himself up on one elbow, watching you.

“You’re beautiful, you know that?” he said softly, his voice uncharacteristically serious.

Your cheeks warm, though you weren't sure if it was from the cold or his words. You then turned your head to meet his gaze.

“Fiyero"

“I mean it,” he said, reaching out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear. His hand lingered, his touch warm despite the chill. “You’re always thinking about everyone else but yourself, you’re incredible.You make everything brighter. Even winter.”

For once, you were at a loss for words. Instead of speaking, you reached up and placed your hand over his, your fingers curling against his palm.

The moment stretched between them, the world around them fading into the background. Snowflakes continued to fall, but neither of you seemed to noticed.

“Thank you,” you finally whispered.

“For what?”

“For being here. For seeing me.”

Fiyero smiled, his thumb brushing gently against your cheek. “Always.”

As the snow fell softly around them, you and Fiyero stayed like that, wrapped in a moment that was entirely your own a moment of warmth, light.

[maysileeewrites]

something there | teaser

movie! Fiyero Tigelaar x gn!reader

Synopsis: When Fiyero suggests a group date activity with Galinda and Elphaba to try and quell the tension between the two, you agree, not knowing that these two might have a common goal in sight as well. (And maybe playing matchmaker wasn’t the only thing on Fiyero’s mind when he suggested the idea …) 

AN: based off of this concept post. I'm so sorry that it's taking me this long to write this, but this story is turning out to be a beast, I'm nearly 4k words in and the actual group date hasn't even happened yet. I might have to split the final shabang into two parts, we'll see. please be just a bit more patient with me <3

Your doubts didn’t seem to phase Fiyero in the slightest. Actually, it seemed that the more vocal you became in voicing your concerns, the more determined to see this through to the end - and see it through successfully - Fiyero became. 

Not even Elphaba’s irritated expression, when he cornered you and her after dinner the following evening, seemed to intimidate him, which, you had to admit grudgingly, was a feat in and of itself. Because while you liked Elphaba very much - when she wasn’t using her breath on venting about Galinda that was - and valued her friendship, she could be quite intimidating. 

If she’d looked at you the way she was currently looking at Fiyero, you were sure that you’d have already crumbled under her withering glare. 

As it was, Fiyero merely shrugged, smirking, when she said, her voice dripping with irritation: „And why in Oz’s name would you do that?“ (Fiyero had just announced that he wanted to invite you two for dinner in a fancy restaurant in town the next evening.) 

„Because I want to spend some time with my best friend’s other friends - get to know them myself, you know“, he said, an easy smile on his face, as he walked closer to you and slid an arm around your waist, the gesture so casual, so natural, almost as if it was something he did all the time. 

It wasn’t. Because while Fiyero had always been extremely affectionate and not even your sister’s irritated glare when he’d casually grab your hand and lace your fingers together or gently touch your arm to get your attention could discern him, he usually didn’t do something like this. 

This felt new and dangerous and thrilling and - you liked it. 

You liked being this close to Fiyero, feeling his body right next to yours, heat radiating off him, even though it caused your heart to start beating frantically in your chest, your palms to sweat and your cheeks to flush. 

Sweet Oz, what was happening to you? 

Because this really wasn’t the moment for you to be this flustered and confused by Fiyero’s shenanigans, not when Elphaba’s irritated, hostile glare was still fixed on him. 

„I see“, Elphaba said dryly, her tone clearly indicating that she didn’t understand at all and that she wasn’t very interested in hearing more. 

„I mean - I already know you’re great, I’ve already heard so much about you, but I thought that we two should get to know each other as well, get to spend some time together, if you know what I mean.“ 

At this, he actually winked at Elphaba. 

Elphaba was having none of it though, raising her eyebrows pointedly. „And what if I happen to not share that sentiment?“ 

„Well, then I’d be very disappointed“, Fiyero said, shaking his head. „I mean, I was quite looking forward to discussing Dr. Clover’s lecture over dinner with you - I happen to admire his work as well -, but no can do, I guess …“ 

„You want to go to Dr. Clover’s lecture with us?“, Elphaba said, the surprise in her voice mirroring your own. You hadn’t heard of this particular aspect of Fiyero’s plan yet, and his satisfied smirk told you that he knew - or at least thought so - he’d won Elphaba over.

tagging: @angel-starbeam @matt-patt-engarde @hazbingirliexoxo @tn22220-blog @crisis-unaverted @graham-mackrackers @a-quick-request @tattooed-galaxies

[wicked-barbie]

I feel her heart beating in me

Wicked: Elphaba Thropp x fem!reader

Rating: Teen

WC: 1.4k 

Prompt: “I'm everything she never was. Now everyone's out for my blood” -Anything Like Me by Poppy for @sweetspicybingo (Lyrical Bingo Collection)

Warnings: WLW, blending of book and musical lore, angst, SPOILERS IF YOU’RE NOT FAMILIAR WITH HOW THE MUSICAL ENDS

Summary: You’re on the run with Elphaba, finding a brief respite in Quadling Country

Elphaba’s hand furled tightly around yours, her pointed green nails nipping your skin as she tugged you along. You gasped for air as you focused on running as fast as you could, the Grimmerie tucked tightly under your other arm. There wasn’t any time to waste; Fiyero’s cryptic message arrived only moments ago, providing very little time for escape. The broom slipped between Elphaba’s thighs as you wrapped one arm tightly around her waist as she lifted into the sky. Behind you, the winged monkeys followed, and a few swooped down to attack the guards and keep them off Elphaba’s trail.

You pressed your face into Elphie’s shoulder, trembling as your other arm continued to grip the Grimmerie. “Where will we go?” you whispered.

“I don’t know,” Elphaba answered honestly.

When your wits returned, you suggested, “Quadling Country seems the safest choice. They’ve grown tired of being exploited by the Wizard. Surely, they might aid our cause.”

“Our cause, is it?” Elphaba teased, and even though you couldn’t see it, you knew there was a smirk on her face.

“We are in this together whether you like it or not,” you pointed out.

“I’m glad,” she replied honestly, resting one hand on top of yours as the other gripped the broom handle.

The hill to cross into Quadling Country was steep and rocky, and you felt relief when your feet finally settled on the smooth, red-paved road. Quadling Country mimicked the Emerald City, but everything was bathed in red instead of green. Even the occupants possessed a deep ruddy, and beautiful complexion.

“It is her! The Witch!” a woman screamed, pointing her finger accusingly.

“Hush! She stands against the Wizard, the man who has worked us to the bone and exploited us,” a man responded.

“We welcome you, witch!” a few voices cheered amongst the gathering masses.

“Her name is Elphaba, my good people,” you smiled.

“Miss Elphaba! Miss Elphaba! You are safe here!”

Her hand reached for yours, fingers entwining tightly as a sense of relief washed over you and her. Some of the crowd had taken to handing various fruits to the monkeys, clearly delighted by them, too. You and Elphaba were shown to a rustic farmhouse and given food and shelter. It would suffice for a day or two. You had no idea of how fast the Guard might catch up, and you only hoped this wasn’t a trick. It would be quite irritating to wake up with a knife pressed to your throat. The cup of red mint tea cradled in your hands soothed your nerves.

A fire roared in the hearth, bathing the spacious room in an orange glow. Elphaba removed her hat and stripped off her black robe, leaving her in a simple, dark purple, sleeveless frock.

“Will you help me loosen my braid?” she asked, sitting in front of you.

“Of course,” you smiled, sitting your mug down and moving your fingers through her thick, black tresses to loosen the braid.

“I’m exhausted,” she sighed, leaning back against your chest.

You wrapped your arms around her waist and rested your chin on her shoulder. “Me too. Let us try to get some rest,” you murmured, shifting so the two of you were lying down and facing each other. You gazed into her eyes, noting the hues of jade and olive, with flecks of dazzling seafoam around her inner iris. There were times when they appeared dark, bathed in amber and chestnuts. Elphaba was a peculiar being, unearthly and hauntingly beautiful.

The two of you intertwined, limbs furling until they almost became one. Her lips held a tinge of sweetness that you savored as her long nails pleasantly scraped down your back. Her hands slipped up your tattered shirt, her warmth spreading through you. You gazed into her eyes, noting the hues of jade and olive, with flecks of dazzling seafoam around her inner iris. There were times when they appeared dark, bathed in amber and chestnuts. Elphaba was a peculiar being, unearthly and hauntingly beautiful. It was hard not to fall under her spell.

Your forehead rested against her, allowing your eyes to close as you held Elphaba. It would be a new day tomorrow, and still, you were by her side. It was a small thing that you were beyond grateful for, and cherished the nights spent in her arms. You detested how she had been painted the villain and sought to spread the truth of the deceiving Wizard. If the Quadlings learned the truth, it would spread throughout the Land of Oz.

A few days passed, and Quadling Country continued to provide a safe haven. While the inhabitants were impressed by Elphaba’s sorcery and entertained by the winged monkeys, especially with Chistery’s attempts to speak, you made yourself valuable with other skills. Though Elphaba had taught you little spells, the townfolk enjoyed your trick of making a daisy rise from the pavement cracks or when you could summon a kaleidoscope of butterflies. It was fun to watch the monkeys fly after the multicolored insects. Apart from those limited feats, you were a gifted cook and a whiz with a needle and thread.

By the end of the week, it was time for you and Elphaba to move on, even though you had grown to love the Quadlings.

“We will spread your truth, Miss Elphaba.” You watched her face glow happily as she held the woman’s hands.

“I have a gift for you, Miss, since you cannot fly,” a young male smiled. He brought forth a beautiful dark black horse, its fur the same color as Elphaba’s rich raven hair.

Your eyes brimmed with tears of gratitude. “This is very kind of you.” You warmly hugged him, waving and calling out heartfelt goodbyes before departing with Elphaba and the monkeys.

~~

Happiness was fleeting, was it not? Tears streamed down your face as Elphaba cradled it tenderly in her hands, her thumbs swiping away your tears.

“I will always love you,” she whispered before her lips captured yours in a deep kiss.

“Your name will forever be on my heart. Please be happy, my love,” you sniffled, holding her close. 

The trap was set. The ruse worked, and all of Oz believed the Wicked Witch was dead when, in fact, she had fled with Fiyero by her side. You couldn’t begrudge him; love was an odd thing, and what you shared with Elphaba would never be forgotten or tarnished. You kept a lock of her ebony hair pinned to the inside of your dress; her scent lingered behind on your nose, and the warmth of her lips burned your own. Her hat had been left behind, a cherished possession you would never relinquish. 

“She’s dead?” Glinda asked, her voice cracking as her shoes clipped against the castle floor.

You whirled around to face her. “I suppose you won.” It was imperative to keep this a secret, even from Glinda, even while knowing Elphaba had disappeared safely. Keep them safe; may their bones never break, and may they never die.

Her jaw dropped. “I was her friend! I was your friend! And that is all you can say to me?” Fury laced her lilting voice.

“You betrayed her! Made her the enemy to serve your own ambitions,” you snapped, fists balling at your side.

“And I regret that.” Truth strained in the word.

“Then help me make it right. Help me continue her legacy; what she wished to achieve can still be done,” you pleaded.

She swallowed hard, gripping the Grimmerie tightly.

“That’s what I thought.”

You stormed past her, stopping when she grabbed your shoulder.

“This is yours now. Protect it, and I wish you all the luck, my friend,” Glinda whispered, pressing the Grimmerie into your hands when you turned to face her.

You softened, glancing into her warm, doe eyes, and felt your anger melt away. “Thank you, my friend.”

Her lips were butterfly-soft against your cheek.

You tucked the Grimmerie safely into your leather bag and then mounted your horse, Zixi. You settled Elphaba’s hat on top of your head, your cape billowing behind you as Zixi galloped away. You cast your gaze to the sky while keeping a tight grip on the reins.

So if you care to find me, look to the western sky.

Your heart thrummed in your chest as you rode toward the west with newfound hope pulsing through your chest and a kaleidoscope of colorful butterflies leading the way.

“I will never forget you, Elphaba Thropp,” you whispered, disappearing into the forest with a promise to fulfill.

[aspoonofsugar]

So if you're into Wicked, how does Nessa foil Glinda and Elphaba?

Hi!

Sure! As per usual this analysis is a patchwork between the movie and what I know of the plot of the play, so it might not be entirely accurate. Also spoilers, obviously.

Nessa is meant to be a dark foil to both Elphaba and Glinda.

NESSA AND ELPHABA

Both Nessa and Elphaba are reduced by others to a physical trait.

Nessa is nothing more than her disability. She is "the poor girl on a chair" that everyone tries to protect and must be kind to. Elphaba is instead the green ugly monster everybody avoids and is wary of.

The sisters are dehumanized, which is why they end up becoming the two Wicked Witches of Oz. Nessa becomes the Wicked Witch of the East, whereas Elphaba ends up as the Wicked Witch of the West. It is telling that both their titles make them nameless, in opposition to "Glinda The Good". By the end of the story, neither Nessa nor Elphaba are seen as people. They are just evil witches.

However, the prejudices they face are opposite:

Nessa is seen as frail, vulnerable and tragic. She is treated as a poor creature that must be handled with care. Her father, her teachers and her friends all treat her like this. Even Elphaba to an extent.

Elphaba is instead seen as malicious, evil and scary. Her father, Glinda, the other Shiz students all treat her like this. Even Nessa to en extent.

The difference is that Elphaba never truly gives in to the mask others force on her. She almost does in No Good Deed:

No good deed goes unpunished All helpful urges should be circumvented No good deed goes unpunished Sure, I meant well, well, look at what well-meant did All right, enough, so be it, so be it, then Let all Oz be agreed I'm wicked through and through since I can not succeed Fiyero, saving you I promise no good deed will I attempt to do again Ever again No good deed will I do again!

However, she is able to pull herself together and simply chooses to leave Oz to live peacefully with Fiyero.

Nessa instead ends up defined by the persona others decide for her.

It is subtle and done unwillingly at first:

Bock: Listen, Nessa? Nessa: Yes? Bock: Uh, Nessa I've got something to confess, a Reason why, well Why I asked you here tonight Now I know it isn't fair Nessa: Oh, Boq, I know why Bock: You do? Nessa:It's because I'm in this chair And you felt sorry for me Well, isn't that right? Bock: No! No! It's because, because Because you are so beautiful!

Here, Nessa is actually trying to fight Bock's prejudice. She thinks Bock asked her out because of pity and is ready to call him out. Tragically, though, it is this very remark, which prompts Bock to find Nessa pitiful. The result is his inability to be honest with her, which leads to their very tragic and one-sided love story.

In short, Bock is initially unable to leave Nessa because he does not see her as a person, but as an extension of her disability. It is this dehumanization, which plants the seeds for Nessa's later spiral. As a matter of fact, Nessa being treated as this "thing" to protect by all the people in her life makes her thirsty for love:

How do you think that feels? All of my life, I've depended on you And this hideous chair with wheels Scrounging for scraps of pity to pick up And longing to kick up my heels

Nessa ends up resenting her disability so much she reduces all her problems to it. This is made obvious in her last scene, where she reproaches Elphaba for never "helping her". Then Elphaba enchants her slippers, so that Nessa can walk. Nessa's reaction is of utter happiness initially. She calls Bock and is convinced he will finally love her for who she is. However, Bock sees the change as a sign he can finally leave her:

Bock: Nessa Nessa: Yes? Bock: Oh, Nessa Surely now I'll matter less to you You won't mind my leaving here tonight Nessa: Leaving?

This turn of events breaks Nessa's heart and prompts her to try to literally "steal" Bock's, but she ends up shrinking it instead. So, Elphaba is forced to turn Bock into the Tin Man to save him.

In short:

Elphaba never lets others reduce her to the color of her skin and never truly becomes "the wicked witch" others see her as. Moreover, she is loved by Fiyero for the person she truly is. Her actions unwillingly leads to him almost dying and she turns him in the Scarecrow to save him. Despite this, Fiyero keeps loving her and the two are together in the end.

Nessa ends up blaming all her problems on her disability, so once she gets "cured" she thinks everything will be fine. Once it turns out the root of her problems isn't her disability, but rather who she is as a person (aka her mistreatment of Bock and the other Munchkins) she is unable to cope with it. Moreover, Bock never loved Nessa and forces himself to stay close to her because of her inability to walk and his sympathy slowly changes into hate. By the end, Nessa almost kills him by mistake and Bock is turned into the Tin Man. Differently from Fiyero, Bock doesn't forgive Nessa and leaves her alone.

NESSA AND GLINDA

Both Nessa and Glinda are spoiled and never called out on their actions because of who they are superficially:

Nessa is seen as weak and meek, so people coddle her. Her father gives her everything, from his attention to his late wife's slippers. Elphaba is protective of her and always ready to put Nessa's needs above her own. The two sisters may be close initially. However, there is no doubt their relationship is asymmetrical. Elphaba is ready to satisfy Nessa's requests, is sympathetic towards her situation and overprotective. Nessa instead doesn't seem to care much her sister is facing discrimination for the color of her skin. If anything, she is said to be ashamed of Elphaba and the movie shows she is annoyed her sister is staying at Shiz, as it spoils Nessa's chance of a new life.

Glinda is seen as perfect because she is beautiful and charming. She is "popular" and has almost all of Shiz grovelling at her feet. As a result, she can easily present herself as the "victim" of Elphaba's bullying, when it is really the opposite. Not only that, but this dynamic gets deeper and more complex in the second part of the play. There Elphaba, who is the real prodigy fighting for the well-being of Oz, is hated as wicked. Glinda, who is unable to perform magic and has sold herself to the Wizard's propaganda, is instead celebrated as good.

As a result of this, both girls struggle with taking responsibility for their actions, until they are faced with a similar struggle: a broken heart.

Bock tells Nessa he loves Glinda and asks her permission to leave, so that he can finally pursue his true love.

Fiyero chooses Elphaba over Glinda and leaves after breaking up his engagement with Glinda.

Both girls are upset over this and end up lashing out against Elphaba.

Nessa uses magic to try and have Bock fall for her, she almost kills him and eventually blames Bock's transformation on her sister:

Nessa: Then what do we do?! This is all your fault! If you had not shown me that horrendible book

Nessa: It wasn't me! It was her! I tried to stop her! Bock, please, I still... It was Elphaba!

As a result of her actions, both Bock and Elphaba leave Nessa alone:

Nessa: Elphaba, please don't leave me! Elphaba: I've done everything I could for you and it hasn't been enough. And nothing ever will be.

Glinda is so upset by Fiyero's choice that she ends up suggesting using Nessa to get to Elphaba. What she doesn't realize is that Morrible is going to kill Nessa to hurt Elphaba. It is symbolically after this moment (and their iconic cat-fight) that Glinda truly realizes how deep she has fallen. It is after the death of Nessa, her dark foil, her shadow, that Glinda is eventually able to choose "goodness" and rushes to warn Elphaba of the witch Hunters coming after her. She even admits her share of responsibility and guilt in how things turned out:

And just to clear the air I ask forgiveness For the things I've done you blame me for But then, I guess we know there's blame to share And none of it seems to matter anymore

Thanks to this gesture, Glinda and Elphaba are able to reconcile and end the story as closer as ever.

Like a comet pulled from orbit (like a ship blown from its mooring) As it passes a sun (by a wind off the sea) Like a stream that meets a boulder (like a seed dropped by a bird) Halfway through the wood (in the wood) Who can say if I've been changed for the better? I do believe I have been changed for the better And because I knew you Because I knew you, because I knew you I have been changed For good

In a sense, Nessa is Glinda's cautionary tale. She is who Glinda risked to become, if she had not learnt to take responsibility for her actions in time. Nessa tragically fails to grow and spirals into wickedness. Glinda is instead able to grow and blooms into Glinda the Good.

THE WICKED WITCH OF THE EAST

Nessarose: Save him please, just save him My poor Boq, my sweet, my brave him Don't leave me 'til my sorry life has ceased Alone and loveless here Just the girl in the mirror Just her and me, Wicked Witch of the East! We deserve each other

And Goodness knows The wicked's lives are lonely Goodness knows The wicked die alone It just shows when you're wicked You're left only On your own Yes, Goodness knows The wicked's lives are lonely Goodness knows The wicked cry alone Nothing grows for the wicked They reap only What they've sown

Nessa's story-arc is tragic because it is the one that more than others fits the description of "wickedness" Glinda and the Ozians sing about in No One Mourns The Wicked. Sure, we can read Glinda's stanza as her singing about herself, as she is now alone. However, Glinda does manage to reconcile with Elphaba and is finally pursuing goodness, which will hopefully bring her more true love and companionship. Fiyero and Elphaba have left Glinda physically, but are with her spiritually, as the finale proves:

Glinda: Who can say if I've been changed for the better? But Elphaba and Glinda: Because I knew you Crowd: No one mourns the Wicked Glinda: Because I knew you Elphaba and Glinda: I have been changed

At the very end, Elphaba is still singing together with Glinda in her heart.

Nessa is instead left alone by everybody. Her father dies, Elphaba leaves her after a huge fight and Bock abandons her after coming to hate her. She is even indirectly killed by Glinda and she dies alone for real. The only consolation is that even in her case, it is not true "no one mourns the wicked". Elphaba does mourn her. Nessa may have become "the wicked witch of the East", but she is still Nessa, Elphaba's little sister, a person behind the "wicked". So, it turns out even the wicked is mourned. That is because every person has the chance to be much more than just "wicked" or "good".

[contrarian-grammarian]

Glindafication, or the Trap of Persona in Wicked (2024)

So I recently saw Wicked for the second time in theaters (this week). As a longtime fan of the musical, I think I'm one of the few people who has always loved the love triangle in it... actually, I think I'm one of the few people in fandom spaces who is willing to be open about loving love triangles when all of the characters are narratively and/or emotionally connected. Idk what to tell you other than I love mess and when shipping echoes the themes of the text.

Anyway, that's a longwinded way of saying that while the movie adaptation didn't make many changes to the story (including not adding a lot of extra Fiyero/Elphaba scenes, which I thought they might given how much that ship drives the plot in Act 2), I thought it highlighted/made me realize a number of things about Elphaba, Glinda, and especially Fiyero that I think are both really interesting character moments and foreshadow their eventual arcs in Act 2. (Spoilers for all of Act 1 below).

:readmore:

Most of this character analysis is coming from one scene that really stood out to me in the film, even though it is basically unchanged from the musical. It's a very small moment between Elphaba and Fiyero, right after 'Popular' (though I think we can assume some time has passed in the actual timeline) and right before Dr. Dillamond is fired. Elphaba is practicing her hair tossing that she's learned from Glinda, and the camera cuts to Fiyero, watching her with a slight smirk, who then says: "You've been Galindafied." Pause. "You don't need to do that."

I didn't really notice this on my first watch--like I said, it's almost the exact same dialogue as in the musical--but it did stand out to me on my second watch because of a few other acting choices for F & E that I will point out later. But on my second watch, I was like, "Wait... what do you mean, 'Galindafied' (derogatory)?" Dude, that's your girlfriend?

In Act 1 of the musical, Fiyero presents way more sincerely as a male version of Glinda. He makes a much ruder comment about Elphaba in their first meeting, and (at least in the stage versions I've seen) really seems settled into his playboy persona in 'Dancing Through Life.' However, in the movie, I think it becomes clearer earlier on (due to the sincere interest displayed in his and Elphaba's first meeting, as well as some other small acting choices during his first meeting with Galinda) that Movie!Fiyero does not actually like fakeness. Which means he doesn't like himself, because he knows how fake he is.

I think in Fiyero's mind, he is two people: Fake Fiyero, who is selfish and shallow and stupid and hot, and Real Fiyero, who knows that Fake Fiyero sucks and it's all a bullshit cover to make his life easier. And Real Fiyero is onto Galinda in a heartbeat--at least, the version that he first sees of her, which I'm sure he considers Fake Galinda. In Fiyero's mind--as seen when he compliments her machinations with Boq and Nessa--Fake Galinda is selfish and shallow and manipulative and hot. And he thinks Fake Fiyero and Fake Galinda "deserve each other" (derogatory).

Interestingly, I think Glinda also knows about Fake Glinda and Fake Fiyero... but she thinks they're the best versions of themselves. In Glinda's mind, everyone is supposed to wear their shiniest, most perfect versions of themselves as a mask in front of their real face. It's why 'Popular' happens right after she connects with Elphaba--in Glinda's mind, the best thing for Elphie is to develop her mask, so that everyone else can learn to love her too. Glinda is aware that it's possible to love the person under the mask--that's how she feels about Elphie and Fiyero ("I don't even think he's perfect anymore and I still want him!") but the mask is preferred.

To tie this back to the Galindafied scene, I think Fiyero sees someone doing what he thinks is the height of bravery at the OzDust dance--being themselves, unabashedly, in front of everyone despite the mockery. "I'll say this for her, she doesn't give a twit what anyone else thinks," is, in Fiyero's mind, the best thing a person can be. He's obviously misreading how much Elphaba does care, because I don't think Fiyero can fathom how somebody could care and still do the brave/embarrassing thing, but when Glinda explains that Elphaba really does care, he becomes even more impressed. And when Glinda joins Elphaba and then they both run out of the ball together, you can tell by the look on his face that he's just been impressed by both of them.

And then, it's the next time he's alone with Elphaba, and she's doing Fake Galinda's hair toss. And Fiyero's like, goddammit. He thought that Elphaba and Glinda might both be real, and now Glinda's making Elphaba into a Fake Elphie. And he's done the fake persona thing himself, he's going to keep doing it, but he really doesn't want Elphaba to think that's her only solution. That Fake Glinda is better than Real Elphaba, and she needs to change for people to like her.

In the musical, "You don't need to do that" always kinda came across to me as a "you're not like other girls" line, but Movie!Fiyero's delivery comes across as both very sincere and something of a warning. He's willing to play a fake person, and he's willing to date a fake person, but he knows perfectly well that being fake sucks, and he doesn't want Elphaba to do it. And Real Fiyero, who's not stupid or selfish, follows this advice with another comment that could never come from Fake Fiyero: "C'mon, let's get to class." And Elphaba gives a small smile before following him. Because, for the first time, I think she appreciates that Real Fiyero exists, and that he would stand up for Real Elphaba.

And speaking of Elphaba... Once she becomes friends with Glinda and Fiyero, Elphaba basically ignores the false front that Glinda and Fiyero put up and judges them based on how they see themselves. Like Fiyero, she prefers their real selves to their fake shells, but she accepts all of the parts of them that they accept. Which is why she is so much more patient with Glinda than Fiyero. She sees that Glinda is both much happier and more integrated into her mask role, and sees that it still allows her to have a basically good heart. (It's also why she's so accepting of Glinda's decision not to leave with her in the end.) She prefers the real, genuinely kind Glinda, but she can accept Fake Glinda as a protective covering.

But Elphaba sees that Fiyero is deeply unhappy with his persona, and tells him--as he just told her--you don't have to do that. "No, you're not. Otherwise you wouldn't be so unhappy." She knows that it's harder to go through life as a Real Person, but it is possible--and now she's learned that it's even possible to have friends.

At the same time, Elphaba, who otherwise is so clear about her friends' true selves, is still incredibly blind about her own worth and identity. And if she can't (or chooses not to) be Galindafied, she'll have to build a different type of mask/persona to protect herself from getting hurt. And she chooses the role of the lonely outsider who would never even be considered as an option for romantic love. "He could be that boy... but I'm not that girl." That ends up being her Fake Elphaba... one that I'm very interested to see how she sheds in Act 2.

[eurydicees]

i've watched way too many wicked bootlegs in the past few weeks and so. reviews of the elphabas i've watched so far (in alphabetical order by last name, this is NOT a ranking).

stephanie j block

she's good! not my favorite i've seen, but i did enjoy her performance overall. i liked her scenes at shiz with doctor dillamond a lot. i really liked how she made the role her own; not sure if it's her singing voice or general speaking intonation or some combination of it all but something felt very distinct from the other elphabas i've watched. no good deed was CRAZY. also her chemistry with sebastian arcelus (fiyero) is solid--i looooooved as long as you're mine. given that they're married this makes sense lmfao, but still thought i'd mention it. fiyero's little spellcasting hand motions and elphaba scoffing and rolling her eyes is actually adorable. another side note but i will also say that annaleigh ashford as glinda was WAY better than i expected and i'm a little obsessed with her.

lilli cooper

ok im gonna be a little harsh here, i'm sorry but i didn't love this cast as a whole (kara lindsay as glinda, jerad bortz as fiyero). cooper had some really good acting moments (particularly in popular and in for good) and i liked her chemistry with glinda (more about lindsay later though) but i just don't think she sang the part quite as well as anyone else in this post. i liked cooper in spring awakening, and looking at her other roles, i'm sure she kills it in those! she just wasn't elphaba for me.

jennifer dinoia

VERY good!!! loved her chemistry with kara lindsay (glinda). unfortunately everything abt kara lindsay is so deeply newsies to me and this was very distracting the entire time. which is not either of their faults so not a fair point of judgment. anyways. overall i really liked how they played off each other. dinoia is super underrated imo. i will say i think her defying gravity isn't the best out there, but i really love her acting overall and the wizard and i was great. she was also so cute in dancing through life so points for that. she does hopeful really well, which is really neat to see in an elphaba. also i found my old playbills later and shes one of the elphabas i saw live! so that's neat.

eden espinosa

quite enjoyed her!!! really strong belt. also quite enjoyed this glinda (megan hilty), but that's a different post. also this fiyero (derrick williams) slaps. damn this cast is just really good together. anyways back to espinosa. her acting is so good i love her. the toss toss with fiyero was fucking adorable and then the immediate switch to outrage over dr dillamond was crazy. she and hilty also have a really good dynamic i love it. alaym was also solid ("you can see houses flying through the sky but not that?" n her little laugh? man. i love elphaba). i think espinosa's biggest strength is her acting--she's a crazy good singer, too, don't get me wrong, but her acting all throughout is absolutely stellar.

mandy gonzalez

VERY much enjoyed her!!!! absolutely incredible as long as you're mine with andy karl--i think they might have my favorite rendition of that song so far. fabulous no good deed as well. i liked how she fell into the last pose at the end of that song. definitely a favorite version of i'm not that girl. took a minute for me to warm up to her acting wise, honestly, but i was very much convinced by the end.

idina menzel

watched her and kristin chenoweth and norbert leo butz and joel grey's last show together, which was a mistake because i am in hysterics. oh my god. so side note but while obviously there are many actresses who have done the role, kristin chenoweth is THE GLINDA. like she's THE glinda. there are other glindas, and there are good glindas, but kc is THE glinda. anyways. okay. sobbing. okay. so idina menzel is , like, the gold standard for elphabas obviously. she's the original broadway elphaba, the defying gravity notes are hers, she's one of the best to ever step on the gershwin wicked stage. i loooooved her passion, and i actually liked how it wasn't always plagued with defensiveness or anger. her no good deed SLAYS though. she did break a few times but i'm giving her a free pass because it was the last obc cast performance and everyone on that stage and in the room was falling apart emotionally. anyways. she's the gold standard, she really is. no words will do her justice. god. im normal about wicked.

dee roscioli

she was good! idk not super notable/memorable to me? i really did like her overall!! she's very skilled and i can appreciate that for sure. just not the best imo. dynamic with clifton hall (fiyero) was really good though, so win for both of them for that.

willemijn verkaik

FAVE FAVE FAVE. i loooooveeed her. so good. absolutely one of the best i've seen so far. her singing is absolutely showstopping. after defying gravity i had to pause and scream alone in my kitchen for a bit. her no good deed is also incredible. she also is so clearly theatre through and through--her balance of strong acting and INSANE singing was really well done. outstanding as long as you're mine, too (kyle dean massey as fiyero was also really good in that; and later the "i wish i could be beautiful for you" and "touch, i don't mind" moments made me feel insane about them). her chemistry with katie rose clarke (glinda) was also quality. fr had me thinking maybe this time glinda would go with her. maybe this time it would work out. oh and her scenes with nessa were also outstanding. for good literally sent me into hysterical sobbing so points for that. god. overall she 10000% was part of the re-igniting of my brainrot over wicked. she's so good. man. god. ok. im normal.

donna vivino

first off, did NOT know she was the original young cosette, so that's irrelevant but super cool! anyways, REALLYYYYY loved her. great dynamic with fiyero (not sure of the actor in this one), and the way she played off glinda in for good specifically was *chef's kiss*. no good deed had me absolutely SOLD on her. i think she has the best rendition of that one that i've seen. moments that remind me that i fucking love THEATRE!!!!! overall she has an incredible voice, and her acting was good as well! had me shaking and trembling during elphaba's biggest scenes (no good deed and for good in particular). i also really liked that she clearly wasn't just trying to be a carbon copy of idina menzel (as some replacements definitely do with the original actor in all roles in any show)--she instead definitely made the role her own, and i really appreciated the choices she made both vocally and acting wise.

jessica vosk

oh she had me wrapped around her finger from line ONE. her voice is absolutely gorgeous, and her acting is spot on. she has so many little gestures that i loved, little small smiles or scoffs or whatever that just felt so fitting. she embodied the character so well. her no good deed made me want to stand up and scream even though i am so cozy in bed. chemistry with glinda (allison bailey) was really solid; popular was really fun. also just generally speaking and as huge side note, her story of how she rose to broadway success makes me feel a little crazy. anyways. maybe i'll try to see her in hell's kitchen. i LOVE her voice.

[deeplyshalllow]

Hi!

So I really liked your analysis on Glinda and why where she ends up narratively makes sense; it kind of reminded me of The Hunger Games to some extent where Glinda's arc parallels Gale even though personality and physical wise, she's more like Peeta (blonde and likeable).

TBH, I think Wicked and Hunger Games mirror each other where Elphaba becomes an enemy to Oz and Katniss becomes the symbol of hope for Panem, while Fiyero parallels Peeta to some extent where his transformation into the Scarecrow is similar to Peeta's hijacking.

Also... And I just had this thought - would you agree that Fiyeraba is a reverse Beauty and the Beast? Let me clarify: while in the BATB story, the "Beast" is turned due to his arrogance, Elphaba is cursed by both her parents (her mother's infidelity and her father's rejection), there's a process where Beauty helps the Beast develop his goodness while Fiyero helps Elphaba heal from the trauma and "wickedness thrust" upon her. That last part helps the Beast regain his physical appearance while Fiyero loses his beauty but is with the women who loves him for his kindness and inner self. Now that I think about it, it's more O Henry's Gift of the Magi vibes. 😆

Would love to know your thoughts on this. 😃

Hmmm I'm not sure where I'd place Gelphiyero in the Hunger Games triangle. Though I sort of feel if anything Elphaba might be Gale to be honest? She thinks there's something wrong with the system, she's angry and wants to protest, and eventually she gets to the point where she's angry enough that she starts harming people to get her way.

Glinda, I'd probably put as Katniss, because she ends up being swept into something she wasn't expecting and doesn't necessarily agree with, and is used by a lot of people more powerful than her to get what she wants. It's only near the end that she fights back against those people and manages to have some say over her own future.

I agree Fiyero is closest to Peeta. Likeable, able to use words and charm to get his way, but when it comes down to it, willing to do anything for love.

But, as I said, I'm not sure there's a direct 1 to 1 comparison to anyone. I have actually considered before how the characters would fair in the Hunger Games (I wrote a fic with Heathers character in the Hunger Games once which worked very well for obvious reasons lol so it does mean I think about my other fandoms), and I think Elphaba would die very early as she refused to kill anyone. Glinda would probably get quite far but end up trusting the wrong person and not manage the final kill. Fiyero might be willing to make the sacrifices to win, but I think, if he didn't just become an outright alcoholic after, would immediately join the revolution.

I think Fiyeraba has a lot of beauty and the beast similarities, especially, as you said, about inner beauty. I know people take ire with the "looking at things another way" line, but it really is all about the fact that Fiyero and Elphaba value each other for their inner beauty not what's on the outside.

[viladlind]

fiyero has gotten skilled at giving apologies, the past few weeks. at least he thinks it's been weeks— almost two, perhaps, if he really wanted to count. he doesn't. passed time has been a blur of comfort that can feel agonizing and pain that is entirely exhaustive. it seems he's unable to decide between one or the other, rather enduring an overlap that he still thinks is his own fault, in parts.

   though, this apology in particular seems easier than most of the others. with dar'khol further removed from fiyero, and with fiyero's actions fairly easily described as wrongful. he asks willem if he can tag along one night, his partner on his way to skullrender to pick up a shift, and snatches the wine bottle he got after zevran's recommendation as they make their way there.

   the club is loud. usually, fiyero would be used to noise, but he hasn't been frequenting the outdoors as much as he probably should have. he finds dar'khol further in the back, after willem points him out, gives fiyero a kiss on the cheek, and scurries off. he's almost hesitant to let him go, but this really isn't a conversation they should be having with anybody else around.

   he approaches as casually as possible, never trying to hide away his presence. the clack of his heels loud against the floor, his tail languidly wagging behind him in a show of caution. once he realizes dar'khol also caught sight of him, he softly waves the wine bottle in his hand, starts talking when he's close enough.

   ' hi. dar'khol. ' it's strange to say the name after he'd called him demon so many times, if only in his mind. he looks ... different. thankfully so. gods, when was the last time fiyero felt out of place? he might still be kicked out for that, not being allowed in this space. isn't sure, tries to gauge dar'khol's expression with a tilted head.

   ' i bring wine and apologies, if you want them. ' an easy offer. fiyero wouldn't begrudge him for not wanting to speak to the tiefling, though he's hopeful the opposite is the case. ' it's good stuff, i'm told. my crow was loath to part with it when i acquired it. '

@innerbeast

[chungledown-bimothy]

Jeremy replacement offical

I was hoping for Derek Klena ngl but Ryan Mcartman is pretty amazing as well

He was actually Fiyero when I saw Wicked lol

gatsby WILL be played by jd and that is a threat.

for real though, he's incredibly talented, and i'm sure he's gonna crush it!!

i wonder how differently la dee dah with you might play with a gatsby who can actually dance lmao

(i wrote and deleted a couple hundred words here about my thoughts on how gatsby not being a good dancer is actually a really interesting detail that's also a strong character choice that i wonder if ryan will lean into)

there's also how the physical differences between tom and gatsby changes, going from 5'9 jeremy to ryan, who is as tall or possibly slightly taller than john zdrojeski, might change the vibe there (specifically made to last comes to mind) as well.

again, i am sure he's going to be absolutely phenomenal!! i just have so many thoughts about things jeremy specifically brought to the role, as it was written with him in mind basically from the jump.

[powerpolyculeshowdown]

Belated realizing that I probably could have made a case for Elphaba/Glinda/Fiyero being implied in the musical specifically, even if some of the evidence for the Elphaba/Glinda portion of that trio is "there is Something going on between them in the book for sure" (supplementary to "listen to the musical and look me in the eye and tell me they're just gal pals") , & that undermines the Glinda/Fiyero portion because even though they're fiance's in the musical those two aren't involved at all in the book, and there's unclear communication between them in the musical.

I don't know, maybe that's less polycule than "doomed-could-have-been's", anyway. But there's an argument there, & it would have been way easier to find art for lmao

even if it's too late for the nomination, you're more than welcome to infodump about them in my inbox!! other people might be interested too, and i'm always happy to share polyships here!

[bluarlequinno]

Normally I'm all up for shipping poly ships, some of my fav ships are poly and I'm naturally a multishipper, but with Wicked and Gelphie it's different, Glinda's and Elphaba's relationship is pretty special and it has too much themes about their freedom from society that having a man be shoved into it feels wrong.

I'm purely a Gelphie Stan, I do like book Fiyero, but I dislike musical Fiyero specially because book Elphaba would never date Avaric, and musical Fiyero is a watered down Avaric, I'm so sure book Elphaba would not like musical Fiyero at all, specially since musical Fiyero is a bad done attempt at a already well stablished Glinda, like srs they have the same story beats with Elphaba, but somehow one is "friendship" and the other is "love" even though Glinda's are always much more intimate, genuine and reciprocate from both.

I've never liked the Glinda x Elphaba x Fiyero poly ship because it clearly dismisses the fact Glinda deals through the fact she repressed herself and has comphet and part of it is because of Fiyero like even if you don't see it as comphet because it's not explicit, she still doesn't like Fiyero, she forces herself to believe that is what she wants and it's pretty clear Glinda loved Elphaba more than she loved anyone else in her life.

Elphaba sure you can argue loved both, but for me it's not a fair poly ship for anyone because Glinda only loves Elphaba and Fiyero only loves Elphaba too, and Fiyero is kinda an asshole to Glinda anyway, regarding musical at least, and in the book Glinda gives 0 fucks about Fiyero and Fiyero is a completely different character anyway so it's not applicable, because normally this poly ship is musical based. It's just a horrible poly ship because it disregards the fact that the only person who loves more than one of them is Elphaba, Glinda and Fiyero don't love each other, and are also too antagonistic in their desires to be like oh yeah sure let's "share" Elphaba, mind you share might not be the right word but ykwim, I feel a lot of people are interpreting it differently because of the movie, but Fiyero wasn't as nice and charming as in the movie, in the og musical he was also mean like Glinda at the beggining so it wasn't as annoying to deal with, because the poly ship wasn't shoved into Gelphie so much, but since they made him more likeable in the movie they interpret it differently and genuinely think Fiyero and Glinda like each other, like I am so sure, even in the og musical, that it was very obvious neither Glinda nor Fiyero liked each other

“Elphaba has two hands” ok but did you ever stop to think that her girlfriend is insane and would die and freak out if Elphaba even suggested dating anyone other than her (she wouldn’t). And did you also suggest that I’m gonna hit you with hammers.

[cartoonygothopossum]

Wicked (part 1)

I first saw the play when I was in high school, and though my memories of it were vague at most, I do remember enjoying it. Some of the songs were quite memorable. I think it's quite fitting that Wicked finally had a movie adaptation, but I wonder why it has taken until 2024 for it to happen. My family and I were hoping to see it in theaters, but it was difficult for my family to find tickets for all of us. I was surprised to know that the movie was still playing in theaters. Ultimately, we rented the movie and saw it at home. I was concerned that I might fall asleep, knowing that this movie was close to three hours long. (Most movies that I see are under two hours or just a little over two hours.) But thankfully, I managed to stay awake. Plus, we were able to pause the movie to take small breaks.

The visuals were cool, and it was a treat to hear all of my favorite songs of the musical. Ariana Grande, whom I mostly recognized as Cat from Victorious, looked quite different with blonde hair, but no less attractive. I'm not sure which race all of the actresses who previously portrayed Elphaba were, but I liked that in this movie, she was portrayed by a black actress, Cynthia Erivo. It surprised me to find out that Cynthia is actually bald. Another unexpected bonus was seeing Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth (the first actresses to play Elphaba and Galinda, respectively) cameo!

Though my memories of the musical are vague, I felt like the movie expanded on the musical, particularly Elphaba's backstory. I knew that Elphaba was the result of an affair between her mother and the Wizard of Oz, who offered her a suspicious drink. But in this movie, Elphaba's mother actually seemed relieved when her husband left for his trip, and excited to take part in the affair. It makes me wonder what kind of problems Elphaba's mother and her husband had in their marriage. Dulcibear and the Wolf Doctor were nice additions; I don't remember them appearing in the musical at all. Elphaba's emotion-driven telekinesis reminded me of Carrie White from Carrie, Matilda Wormwood from Matilda, and Elsa from Frozen (though she had ice powers). I liked that the movie even included a brief flashback of Elphaba and Nessarose when they were kids. It was just too bad that Elphaba's (step)father blamed her for upsetting Nessarose.

As for Galinda, she seemed like the typical rich, spoiled girly girl. I was surprised to see that she literally fainted when she didn't get her way. I was curious as to why she was the only student at Shiz who didn't wear a uniform. Perhaps her family was able to convince the school to let her dress however she wanted? Though Galinda obviously didn't want roommates, it was still unfair of her to set aside only a spare bed behind her rack of clothes for Elphaba after they were assigned as roommates. As catchy as the song was, it was condescending of Galinda to try to change Elphaba during the "Popular" scene.

I honestly liked Elphaba the way she was. Sure, she dressed mostly in dark colors and had green skin, but she was still pretty in her own way. She was feminine, but in a dark, historical fashion-inspired sort of way. I was admittedly confused by her movements after she arrived at the dance. I wondered if Elphaba was trying to cast a spell, but no, she was just dancing. The other students were quite mean to her, but I was glad that after Galinda danced with her, the dance ended on a happier note.

Those poor animals, though. Dr. Dillamond, the lion cub, and the other animals... None of them deserved to be treated as badly as they were. At least Elphaba and Fiyero managed to free the lion cub. How awful Elphaba must've felt when she realized that the Wizard of Oz and Madame Morrible were the ones trying to marginalize the animals. The fact that Madame Morrible got Emerald City to turn against Elphaba for opposing her plans, after kindly mentoring her, made me realize that she acted nice to Elphaba, because she wanted to be able to manipulate her.

I look forward to seeing part two, whether in theaters or at home.

[avinkusprince]

@melpomeneprose | continued. She... One look at her husband tells Sarima all she needs to know... or all she thinks she needs to know. A less observant person would assume the blonde one, who also makes the plenty rounds of correspondence the 'good one'... but the blonde one (while it would make a good lie and an even better 'distraction' the Arjiki Princess would not believe it, besides, everyone in Oz knows women not men feature prominently in the 'good ones' social circle). It isn't disdain for him, far from it, it is fear of marriage as a whole, and could Sarima really be blamed for that? He misunderstands surely, it isn't ignorance... that implies inability to know, she wants to know. It is the fear of not being enough. The scared child still lurking inside the fair... or rather fairer (not when compared to 'the good one' and only when compared to her husband) Arjiki Princess. She... Elphaba. Of course she understands on some level the fascination. On the other hand it hurts the way being struck does, she is grateful most assuredly that Fiyero has never sunk that low. Still, there is a rather large chasm and it lacks a bridge. There is a look, not of hatred but of the most earnest concern, both for herself and him. Humble and loyal. Not that there were other choices. "Forget what?" Sarima asked, pointedly. "I may not be as well educated as you, Fiyero, but I am not naive," she catches herself before she can add, I love you -- I am sorry. Though, really, and Ozian propriety be damned. There is a wretched beastly longing inside that wishes to say well... all she thinks. Still, she could never, she isn't as brave as Fiyero and his school friends, then again she never had the chance to be.

From another wife, 'forget what?' might be the sweet, reconciling words to playfully tell him that it is already forgotten, the tension mercifully behind them. But this is Sarima, and the words are incisive and accusing. Fiyero is still re-acclimating to how much harder every nuance hits him in his native tongue after prolonged exposure to the inflections of common Ozian, felt more remotely through the veil of an acquired language.

He keeps his gaze fixed on the window. Where she gets off accusing him, he hardly knows, but it doesn't stop him feeling chastened, even from something he doesn't believe he's done. "No, I don't imagine anyone would charge you with that, my dear," he murmurs, and the term of endearment sounds dull, habitual. "But they might make suspicious stick. Why don't you just tell me what you think I ought to admit to and I'll say I'm sorry, because well educated as I am I'm apparently not as read up on rumors as you seem to be."

[corvisque]

wordlessly the assassin rucks up the hem of his borrowed shirt to gently graze his fingers along the still-tender line of his sutures. nothing feels out of place or ripped, and a glance confirms that they remain as tidy and neat as they had been prior to his little episode. in the dark and now painfully awake, no fog of blood loss or half-memories clouding his vision, he can understand how gruesome they must look. not the work itself, of course, but the reddened skin around it, the length of the wound. it will more than likely scar. another for his collection -- although not one he will be particularly proud of.

"i believe they are whole."

fiyero is clearly giving him his space, and for that he is thankful. but there is something in her smile, in the way her hand hovers listlessly in the air before she takes it back, as though she wishes to touch. perhaps she is afraid he will react poorly. he cannot blame her; with anyone else he would not wished to be touched in such a delicate moment, but with her? it does not sit right that she be too afraid to touch him. he doesn't like it.

"here, see?" zevran reaches out his own hand to take hers, to draw it towards him so that she might check for herself that he is, indeed, telling the truth. he is ignorant to her inner turmoil, but he is perceptive enough to know that something is amiss and he will do what needs to be done to correct it.

"you did a fine job. impossible to tear, for all my moving around. i'm sure i could do all manner of things and not have to worry."

fiyero is meant to fix it. all of it.

whether it's the wounds of her companions in battle, the verbal squabbles they get into, the sides they pick and choose during conflicts. whether it's the grove, the shadow-cursed lands, all of faerûn— her hands are made for comfort, for healing, for safety.

people look to her. people rely on her.

this is not the place for it. she wants to fall apart, to break down into small sobs and hitched breaths, to cry about her inability to help zevran where she so badly needs to. but this is not the place for it, not when zevran needs her. even after he'd pushed her away. a rock to steady himself against, a calming voice in the dark. he raises a hand to his eyes and her darkvision shows that it trembles.

another time. another moment. never now.

' you needn't apologize. ' it's a whisper, barely any voice to it. a small smile sits on her face, framed by tired eyes. ' you didn't hurt me. more importantly, did you hurt yourself? your stitches, are they whole? '

she remains where she is, one hand still half outstretched, not touching him. waits for him to tell her that it's okay to. she doesn't ask, rejection sitting in her throat in an ugly way she doesn't want to speak aloud. oddly restrained, in how she lowers her hand entirely the next moment, smoothing it against the blankets underneath the both of them. as though to keep it busy.

' it's okay if they aren't. i'll fix them up. can you check? '