Was originally a drabble, but it got too big...

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And now for the story...

"Mama," Elphaba tugged at Melena's dress to get her attention, "Mama, am I pretty?"

Melena looked down into the toddler's large chocolate-colored eyes that shown with childhood innocence. She scooped up young Elphaba into her arms, "What makes you ask that, my little frog?" Her daughter smiled at the affectionate nickname, it was one she called her only when Frex was out of earshot and was their own little secret.

"Father told me that I'm not pretty, but I don't believe it unless you say it." Melena scowled, vowing to talk to Frex later about his attitute towards his daughter. Then, rearranging her expression to a soft kind, look, she sat on a nearby chair. Elphaba sat her knee and looked up at her expectantly.

She stroked the girl's beautiful black hair and sighed, "Elphaba Thropp, you are one of the most beautiful little girls I've ever had the fortune of meeting. Many people will call you ugly or not pretty in your life, but don't believe them. It's the inside that counts, and on the inside, you are a smart, kind loving girl who will do great things and make good. Do not believe anyone who says otherwise, Okay?"

Elphaba nodded then wrapped her small arms around Melena's neck in a hug. When she pulled away, the girl looked directly into Melena's eyes, in almost an intimidating way. "Does the green matter, Mama?"

She shook her head "Only to those who are as closed minded and discriminating as your Father is. But to me, it makes no difference in the world." Elphaba looked relieved and leaned against Melena's chest, allowing her to continue to stroke her hair. They stayed like that for several minutes, just sitting there listening to each other's heartbeat.

For as long as she lived, Elphaba never forgot her Mother's words, an continued to believe that, despite her outward appearance, she was beautiful on the inside and had the power to do great.

D'awww, I like nice Melena...