Chapter 16: A Cosy Chat
Chapter 16 of 38
star_girlA trader on the edge of the wizarding world is about to turn Snape's world upside down.
ReviewedChapter 16: A Cosy Chat
Dumbledore had proposed that Rosetta and Snape meet up as soon as possible and it couldn't have been more timely, for the following evening there had been yet another attack: this time, on Second-Year Hufflepuff Justin Finch-Fletchley and Nearly Headless Nick, the Gryffindor ghost. Both were led up to the Hospital Wing to reside with the other victims and the nervy mood which permeated the castle since Colin Creevey's attack had now gone into full-blown panic. There was almost a stampede by students to book themselves on to the Hogwarts Express for the Christmas holidays and to be honest, Rosetta couldn't blame them. She was desperate to get out of the castle herself, to get away from the biting cold and clear her mind for a bit. But unfortunately, that had to wait, as there was still work to be done.
She met with Snape on the Saturday before Christmas in Dumbledore's office. Dumbledore himself had suggested the meeting place, which was a relief to Rosetta as she thought it was “neutral territory” although Dumbledore had not appeared to have picked up on any of the awkward and uncomfortable vibes between the two of them and had left them a plate of mince pies and some glasses of port as if it was going to be a cosy chat. Rosetta thought it would probably be anything but as she steeled herself to ask the first question. She thought long and hard about phrasing it, knowing instinctively that mentioning You-Know-Who would probably be a massive faux pas and that Snape would probably not make this easy for her. She had to try and be cordial, and keep him on side.
She was also fully aware of the power dynamic at play, and knew that Snape usually appeared to be superior in any given situation. She decided to counter that by arriving at the Headmaster's office early and taking his usual seat behind the desk. That way, at least, it would give Rosetta some small semblance of being in control. This was her research, after all. She hoped she could take charge of the situation. Plus, having the desk as a barrier between the two of them provided her with a psychological security blanket. Even if she was feeling incredibly nervous, she had to hide her feelings.
“Thank you for agreeing to see me,” she began, confidently offering Snape a mince pie which he refused with a wave of his hand as he sat on the chair opposite her.
“I can assure you it was not my idea,” he answered offhandedly.
She would have bet her last Galleon on that! She was sure Dumbledore had coerced Snape into speaking with her. Frankly, she was surprised Snape had agreed to it in the first place, but as she knew all too well, Dumbledore could be extremely pursuasive.
“What can you tell me about your experience of Parseltongue?” she asked directly, keeping it broad and light as she took a bite out of one of the mince pies. The pastry was buttery and the filling sweet, with plump cinnamon-infused fruits. The House-Elves had done it again.
“I have witnessed it being spoken on many occassions,” he replied carefully.
Rosetta noticed his tone was guarded, yet without malice. Perhaps the seating arrangement had performed a subconscious trick which had commanded more respect for her. Emboldened, she continued.
“And in all those times, did you ever hear a recurring sound or phrase, that you felt you could attach meaning to?”
Snape did not hesitate in his response.
“Yes.”
Rosetta raised her eyebrows; this, she was not expecting.
“Can you tell me what that related to?”
Snape paused before answering. “There were times when the snake appeared to have been directly ordered to kill it's... prey. That sound I tend to associate with the word kill.” He was careful to keep his voice even but something told Rosetta he wasn't talking about the staple snake diet of rats and mice. She tried to ignore the shiver of dread that crept down her spine.
“Is that sound something you feel you could emulate?”
At this, Snape gave her a withering look and his black eyes glimmered. “If you think I am about to start hissing at you, then I'm afraid you will be sorely disappointed.”
Rosetta almost laughed at this suggestion, but managed to keep it together. Who knew the Potions Master could actually be funny? “That's not what I meant. Hypothetically speaking, would it be possible to emulate the sound? And do you think the snake would react to it in the same way?”
Snape leaned back in his chair and pondered on this, his gaze never leaving Rosetta's face.
“Yes, I think it would be possible to imitate the sound,” he said slowly. “And I think the snake would in all likelihood react to it.”
Rosetta smiled politely. “Thank you, Professor Snape. This has been truly useful. Do you have anything else you wish to tell me?”
Snape rose and a look seemed to pass across his face as if he was going to say more, but then the moment passed.
“No, that's all.”
“OK, then. Goodnight.”
Snape's face was once more an inscrutable mask.
“Goodnight.”
Rosetta watched him stride across the office and through the door. She felt a wave of relief wash over her. That was short and sweet! Not only had Snape been perfectly cordial and non-threatening, he had actually provided her with some crucial information. He'd said he'd recognised a sound as having meaning – essentially, he'd recognised a word of Parseltongue, even if he was reluctant to demonstrate the sound himself. And he thought it would be possible to mimic that sound, hypothetically, by a non-speaker to have the same effect – which would imply the language could be learned and was not restricted to those born with the ability to speak it. All of which was massive food for thought.
Rosetta celebrated by sipping a glass of port, enjoying the sweet ruby liquid dancing on her tongue. The Snape she had just spoken to seemed like a far cry from the man who had been scowling and sniping at her for the whole of term. Yes, he had been clearly restrained and measured in his answers, and a little uptight too, but there had been a glimpse of something other than pure hatred underneath. She thought she detected a biting sarcastic humour, a flash of something... human. Maybe Dumbledore had ordered Snape to be on his best behaviour, and he had been simply obeying orders. Or maybe her deliberate power shift had effected a change in his behaviour, forcing some respect. Either way, she was glad the outcome had been fruitful and that he hadn't looked at her like something he'd scraped off his boot for once. Maybe Dumbledore was right and there was more to Snape that met the eye.
Idly, she downed the rest of the port and as she stood to leave she noticed that there appeared to be a piece of mistletoe hanging from the door frame. She examined it in disbelief as she left the office. What on Earth was Dumbledore thinking? As if she'd be interested in kissing the Potions Master. What a ridiculous notion! But she couldn't stop the hot flush that crept over her cheeks as she closed the door and made her way down the steep spiral staircase.
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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 :)