Death of Manek

Manek, the cruel son of Sarima, is killed by a falling icicle. The event is seen as an accident, but there is an unspoken suspicion that Elphaba's magic was involved. The death devastates Sarima and the sisters, who had pinned their hopes on Manek. It also deepens the family's grief and resentment. Elphaba feels a cold satisfaction, as Manek had been a torturer. The death marks a further deterioration of the family's morale and a hardening of Elphaba's character. It also isolates Liir, who is now the only child left in the castle.