Chapter 11: Hidden Secrets
Chapter 11 of 38
star_girlA trader on the edge of the wizarding world is about to turn Snape's world upside down.
ReviewedChapter 11: Hidden Secrets
October's weather was wet and cold. Rosetta had almost forgotten just how dark and rainy it could get in Scotland compared to the sunnier climes of Greece that she had grown accustomed to. With the chill came shorter days, and with shorter days came longer nights; nights that she spent endlessly pouring over the Archidoxis magica, carefully scribbling down notes on sheaves of parchment when a thought came to her, or to highlight important pieces of text. It appeared Paracelsus had created the Alphabet of the Magi as a protective charm initially. There were examples of how he would engrave the names of angels on talismans, which he claimed could treat illnesses and provide protection. It seemed appropriate that if the mythical scrolls actually existed, then they would be written in the Alphabet of the Magi in order to defend the secrets within them.
Luckily for Rosetta, the full alphabet was transcribed and translated inside the book. The alphabet itself did look very magical. To Rosetta's eyes it appeared to be a wonderful combination of many different styles of writing, part Urdu script, part Hebrew script, with a traces of other beautiful exotic languages. The characters looked familiar to her and she had a nagging sense that she had seen them somewhere before. But where? She couldn't place it for now, but still it gnawed at her. Perhaps she was getting confused with the Coptic script, of which she had seen plenty of times in her adopted homeland. Still, she couldn't shake the feeling that she'd seen the mystical alphabet somewhere before.
As to the whereabouts of the scrolls, there was unfortunately no treasure map handily drawn inside the grimoire to assist with the search. If there were any clues at all to the scrolls and their location, then they were hidden extremely deeply indeed. Over the course of the month, Rosetta had read and re-read the book cover to cover and whilst she felt extremely knowledgeable on the Alphabet of the Magi now, she was still no closer to finding evidence for the scrolls or their hiding place. Paracelsus was a very clever man; it would not be beyond him to hide clues inside the text of the book itself. That would be yet another puzzle to solve. But there were so many ways to embed codes into text, it was difficult to know where to start. For example, hidden words could be spanned over a continuous set of words. Or, a message could be spelled out reading down the page using the first or last letter of each line. Or even, the first word or letter of each paragraph. And that was just the start. Then there were ciphers and invisible inks too; all that before considering any magical properties that the book could be imbibed with.
Dumbledore had been typically sanguine when Rosetta had shared her summarisation of the book and her ideas of steganography with him, on the Friday night before Hallowe'en in his office. To his mind, they were halfway there. Rosetta was not so sure.
“There are countless ways Paracelsus could have hidden a message inside the book. That's if there are any message to be found in the first place. It could take forever!”
Dumbledore regarded her thoughtfully. “At first glance, it does look Herculean, I admit. But there is a reason why you alone were chosen for this task, Rosetta. You have a unique skill set, consisting of your adeptness with languages and your logical, puzzle-solving brain. I don't doubt that if there are any messages to be found, you are the one to find them.”
Rosetta sighed. “It still might take a long time. Time we don't really have.”
“True. But I'm not expecting answers overnight. I realised the magnitude of the work needed, and I know you are spending every single moment you can working on this. My advice, if you even need it, is to methodically go through every way you can think of to uncover any hidden clues.”
“And if I don't find anything?”
Dumbledore smiled encouragingly. “Then we'll try a different approach.”
o0o
Rosetta left the Headmaster's office shortly after nine o'clock and made her way back to her quarters. The corridors were all but deserted, with just the odd painting moving about by candlelight. She liked the calmness of Hogwarts at night; no echoing voices of excitable children or thundering footsteps on polished floors.
She had to admit that working so hard on Dumbledore's project had given her the distraction that she'd craved. She'd hardly thought about the incident with Snape and had managed to largely avoid him at mealtimes and in the dungeons. The rare times their paths crossed she would instantly look away, avoiding all eye contact. For all she knew, or cared, he did the same. They didn't speak or acknowledge each other, and that suited Rosetta just fine.
Heading away from Dumbledore's office she turned right and walked towards the West Wing, where her quarters were located. At the top of a flight of stairs at the end of the corridor sat Mrs Norris, her fluffy tail flicking restlessly and her lamp-like amber eyes darting between the wall and Rosetta as she climbed the steps. It was common knowledge that the majority of students detested the old cat, but as far as Rosetta could see, she was merely a loyal companion to her devoted, albeit slightly creepy, master. Yes, Mrs Norris might be grumpy, but she was probably one hundred and fifty in human years. I'd be grumpy if I was that old too, Rosetta thought to herself.
Rosetta paused on the top step and looked down at the elderly grey cat.
“What's up, Missus? Are you on your nightly patrol?”
The cat's ears began to flatten against her head and her eyes became wide as she stared at the wall, now ignoring Rosetta completely. The elderly feline looked more and more agitated, scared even, crouching down on her haunches and licking her lips as her tail began to lash left and right. Rosetta looked around for a ghost or some other presence which could have spooked her, but there was nothing there.
Rosetta stopped and listened hard. There was a faint scratching sound, followed by a cold, whispering voice:
"Come... Come to me... let me rip you... let me tear you..."
With a sharp hiss, Mrs Norris ran away with an agility well beyond her years. Rosetta was momentarily paralysed as a terrified chill ran down her spine. It was the same voice that she had heard back in Snape's classroom at the start of term. Whoever or whatever it was, it seemed to be after flesh. Her flesh.
Rosetta sprinted all the way back to her quarters, fumbling with her key in her hurry to get away from the voice. She locked the door behind her, breathing hard. She found she was shaking. Don't be stupid, you're just hearing things, she told herself. But it was clear from Mrs Norris' reaction that it was no flight of imagination.
Rosetta slept fitfully that night, her snatches of dreams punctuated with undecipherable Magi text and the cold, whispering voice, calling for her flesh.
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Latest 25 Reviews for Speaking in Tongues
54 Reviews | 6.06/10 Average
I love the concept of a Magical Languages teacher at Hogwarts. A much needed post, in fact.
Response from star_girl (Author of Speaking in Tongues)
Thank you, dearest! I am grateful for your support :)
It is quite a feat to come up with something new and different. There are shades of Tolkien: the importance of language and some languages are dodgy. Dumbledore must be counting on her adventerous spirit in addition to her attraction to money, not to mention the energy and guile needed for her job and the task. (Hope this wasn't too much of a spoiler.)
Response from star_girl (Author of Speaking in Tongues)
Thank you so much for taking the time to read and review, I'm so pleased you're enjoying it :)
Well. well. For her birthay Dumbledore sent Rosetta the book by Paracelsus that Professor Binns mentioned, as well as a warm scarf. It seems there in no end to the rare books to be found in the Headmaster’s private collection. Having Archidoxis magica by Paracelsus is quite a coup for Rosetta: Alphabet of the Magi.
Then right on the heels of Dumbledore’s gift, she received Severus’ remedy for her return to health... contained in a beautiful dark green brocade pouch. She wonders about his reason for sending it-to poison her?-but she quickly decides that taking the potion is exactly what she should do. I’d have done the same thing.
The next morning she went to Snapes’ classroom to thank him... What I can't figure out is why Snape is being so rude in his interactions with Rosetta. The way he spoke to her made her think that he was bored with her presence and kept on writing. “I wouldn't be much of a Potions Master if it didn't work, would I? Is there anything else you wanted?” Before she could leave, he pulled her toward him and begin reading her mind. Then when she left he had a sorrowful look... which she was not there to see. I know there is a reason that he is trying to keep a distance between them, but I don’t know what that reason could be. Unless Dumbledore has given him orders not to become friends with her.
I’ve got loads of guesses running around in my mind, but I’m a bit short on clues. Thanks for this wonderful chapter!!
Beth
Author's Response: Thank YOU for the wonderful reviews. They make my day. I love that each chapter gets you thinking of how it’s coming together and that you let me know your thoughts. It’s the highest praise an author can receive, so thank you for taking the time not just to read but to give such thoughtful reviews too. :)
Soooo, maybe, just maybe... the good Paracelsus did know more about talking to snakes than history might suggest. Very interesting indeed. It looks like Rosetta will be tasked with teasing fact from fiction about Paracelsus and his role in Parseltongue. Yes, rather exciting, after all. And where does Severus fit into all this????
Beth
Author's Response: Ooh it sounds like I have you intrigued and asking all the right questions. I hope you’ll continue to enjoy and follow where this goes :)
Oh my. Paracelsus (in real life) reminds me of Severus a bit. Both of them were snarky as well as brilliant, and they both added a lot to their chosen life's work. I love that you used Paracelsus in the story! Now, Salazar Slythrin and Herpo The Foul really do seem to fit the bill for a Dark wizard, so I can't help but wonder how it was that Paracelsus was credited with the discovery of Parseltongue, too. Was this done to throw the average wizard or witch off the scent where Voldemort was concerned?
Beth
Author's Response: I’m so glad you like the use of Paracelsus! And I love that you’re asking questions, there’s plenty more mysteries to come :)
What is Dumbledore up to? He plays his hand close to his vest, and the more he can keep people in the dark, the easier it is for him to keep tabs on them and manipulate them... and Severus knows this all to well. I can't wait to see what happens next.
Beth
Author's Response: Absolutely! As usual, he knows more than he's letting on.
Whoa! This chapter answered some of my questions from Chapter 4, and now I can't wait to find out what Rosetta manages to find out on her own.
Great chapter! 
Beth
Author's Response: Thank you ladt :)
OMG! Severus has come out with his fists raised and really challenged Rosetta. But why? What is it about her that he finds so contentious?
“Let me rip you... Let me tear you..."
Was he alluding to her past? Or was he now threatening her outright?
Several questions come to mind. When did Rosetta graduate from Hogwarts? It's the 1990's, but she seems to be at least a decade his junior. And why did Dumbledore not tell Severus that he had brought on a new professor for a new class on languages? And why would Severus even care?
Beth
Author's Response: Keep reading dear! I promise your questions will be answered :)
BoyHowdy! That was quite a daunting introduction to Hogwarts for our language-gifted Ravenclaw. I'm happy that Professor Sprout is such a kind woman. I think Rosetta will need a friend to talk to, and talk with, in the weeks to come. And I cannot help but wonder what was going on in Professor Snapes' mind as he traded glares with the new professor... was he trying to read her mind??? Or just his usual ornery self?
And while I'm "wondering," I wonder if his being late to the Feast had anything to do with Voldemort? Or the Malfoys? Or Bellatrix?
I'm liking this a lot! Thanks.Beth
Author's Response: Oooh all will be revealed my dear! That's all I can say for now. Glad you are liking it so far and I hope you'll enjoy where this leads.
“That's all I am asking of you, Rosetta,” Dumbledore continued, sensing victory. “One academic year, from the first of September to the eighteenth of June. Your meals and board are, of course, part of the package.”
Hummmmm... Somehow I think that "one academic year" may turnout to be a very dangerous and long "one academic year."Whenever Dumbles is involved it always becomes a cricis situation.Beth
Author's Response: Yes indeed, Dumbles is pulling the strings as usual!
One hour, she repeated to herself. That's all.
Ah ha. Famous last words I'll wager! I'm already trying to guess what is going to hapen next!
Beth
Author's Response: Ahh, dear Beth! Thank you for stumbling across this story and for your reviews, they always make me smile. I am glad this story had caught your attention :)
This was GOLD! And I'm hungrily waiting for more on Snape/Rosetta! AND YEAH I FEEL YOU SO MUCH ON THE RL FRONT AS YOU CAN GUESS FROM MY HIATUS. Hoping to be back in the middle of next year, after exams and all!
Author's Response: I am so glad you enjoyed it dearest, thank you for taking the time out to read and review. Best of luck with the exams and hope to see you back in action soon xx
Ah, finally! *shakes my head at these two*
Author's Response: Talk about not being able to see the wood for the trees!
not the ending I was expected! hope rosetta will appear in a future story!!
Author's Response: Bit of a twist I suppose! Thank you for reading and somehow I don’t think Severus and Rosetta’s story will end here :)
sad that severus can be with rosetta in greece!!
Author's Response: I know, I broke both their hearts. But I don’t think their romance is over just yet :)
hope the 2 scrolls hold some interesting find!!
Author's Response: Thanks for sticking with this :)
I love your depiction of Severus here... it would be VERY natural for him to reject-- or at least stay away from-- all types of romantic advances. (And that does get heartbreaking at times, we the fangirls would agree ;) )
Author's Response: Thank you so much so sticking with this! xx
hope to see more of this great story!! like rosetta's personality!
Author's Response: Thank you so much! I hope you continue to enjoy it :)
Oh, Snape will be so annoyed! Rosetta will need strong nerves to balance between the manipulative and secretive Headmaster and the equally secretive Snape whose link to her she still does not know. Well done!
Author's Response: Thanks so much for reading a note, hope you'll enjoy where this goes :)
Meet now Hog's Head... oh wow! I love how Dumbledore replies using the same code. I am eagerly waiting to see what happens next!
Author's Response: Thanks lady! Hope I won’t keep you waiting too soon for the next one!
Oh, no, the suspense... well done! I'd love to see more of a certain Potions Master, btw
Author's Response: There are plans for him, don't worry! Real life is hectic so might not get chance to update for some time but rest assured the story is very much alive. Thank you for taking the time to read and review :)
Hi, just found this story again, and I love it.
Rosetta is a truly unique character, and you introduced her with love to detail, yet without lengthiness.
Her past interaction with Snape has to hold clues that he is unwilling to reveal. So very much the Snape we know: doing everything to be disliked and suffering himself the most from it. Now he is joining their research, which is bound to thicken the plot-yeah!
Thanks so much for sharing your character and her story with us.
Author's Response: I am so glad Rosetta resonates with you, I've grown rather fond of her! Thank you for reading and leaving a note.
'We need to talk.' That's an amazing code :P
Author's Response: Glad you're sticking with it lady! Might be a while til I next update but thank you for sticking with it x
Whoa so Rosetta is a Parselmouth! Now THAT definitely makes it all the more intriguing! PS: Thanks for your reply... and don't worry, take all the time you need! RL is pretty ruthless here, and it may be another year and a half before I return to a more 'normal' schedule :P Until then, I'll be lurking intermittently to hunt for updates :P
Author's Response: Thanks lady! You're in luck about the update, the muse leapt on me this morning and I had to obey!
I'm enjoying this perspective very much! Can't wait to read more.
Author's Response: Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving a note, I really appreciate it! Life is about to get hectic so it might be a wee while before I can update but please rest assured I absolutely will complete this tale, and I really appreciate you sticking around to find out what happens :)