 Back in their room , they continue to bond . Galinda tells Elphaba of her plans to marry Fiyero even though he hasn 't proposed and Elphaba confesses that her father blames her for the death of her mother , who died birthing Nessarose . Galinda decides that she will help Elphaba become popular and she gives her roommate the nickname " Elphie " ( " Popular " ) . When Elphaba arrives at class the next day , Fiyero sees Galinda 's influence , and tells Elphaba that she doesn 't need to change . Dr. Dillamond enters to tell the class that he is leaving - he is no longer permitted to teach . Elphaba wants to help , but no one will stand up with her . The students are introduced to the new technological advancement of the cage , which will keep Animals controlled , so that they never learn to speak . Elphaba 's outrage cannot be contained , and in the ensuing chaos , she and Fiyero grab the Lion cub in the cage and escape . 
