Chapter 20: Too Little, Too Late
Chapter 20 of 38
star_girlA trader on the edge of the wizarding world is about to turn Snape's world upside down.
ReviewedChapter 20: Too Little, Too Late
Rosetta returned from Greece feeling anxious. The last thing she needed was an unrequited love like some silly schoolgirl, yet Snape was taking up more and more of her headspace. What if he'd grown tired of their little daily interactions? And what if her cool exterior slipped and he noticed her feelings for him had started to change? He'd probably crush her as easily as a Scarab Beetle. Of all the men to start to develop feelings for, Snape was possibly both the most inappropriate and least likely to reciprocate.
It turned out that Rosetta had no need to worry, as she and Snape fell in to their usual post-breakfast banter easily in the weeks after the Easter break and nothing in his demeanour suggested anything had changed. I need to keep it together, Rosetta thought as she made her way out of the Great Hall one sunny and breezy Saturday morning towards the Quidditch pitch to watch Gryffindor play Hufflepuff. She could count the number of weeks she had left at Hogwarts on two hands and she had a lot of work to do between now and then. She had to stop being distracted from the job in hand, of cracking the mystery of Parseltongue. But that was proving to be more and more difficult as the days wore on.
Rosetta took her place in the stalls next to Pomona in the Hufflepuff end of the pitch. They were surrounded by a loud and exciteable crowd and Pomona herself was wearing her brightest canary yellow robes in support of her House.
“The Hufflepuff team have been working hard all season. I think we have a fair chance, even with Harry Potter playing for Gryffindor,” Pomona told Rosetta whilst the teams walked on to the pitch to temultuous applause.
Madam Hooch had only just released the balls when Professor McGonagall came half-marching, half-running across the pitch, carrying an enormous purple megaphone.
“This match has been cancelled,” she called through the megaphone, addressing the packed stadium. There were many boos and shouts, with members of the crowd looking at each other increduously with confusion.
“All students are to make their way back to the house common rooms, where their Heads of Houses will give them further information. As quickly as you can, please!”
Pomona shrugged her shoulders sadly and gave Rosetta a, I have no idea what's going on look before rallying her disappointed Hufflepuffs back to their common room.
Rosetta followed the masses back inside the castle, with many students grumbling about the match cancellation whilst others looked extremely worried. A knot had started to form in her stomach. Something bad had to have happened for Quidditch to be cancelled. As if on autopilot, Rosetta climbed the stairs towards the Staff Room, as she had done on the night of Hallowe'en. The murmur of the crowd grew less with every stair she climbed and she was just about to round the corner into to corridor which lead to Staff Room when she heard a voice which made her stomach sink like a stone.
“Kill this time... Let me rip... tear...”
Rosetta felt fear wash over her as if she'd been doused in water and before she knew what was happening she had sprinted to the Staff Room and closed the door behind her with a slam. Thankfully, she was the first person inside, so there was no-one there to see her trembling in shock. She now knew without a shadow of a doubt without being told that there had been another attack, and that the voice and the attacks were inextricably linked. She took in a few deep breaths and gripped the back of an old leather armchair for support.
A minute later, more teachers began to enter the room looking tense and shortly after that, the Heads of Houses joined them. The Headmaster, Rosetta noted, was curiously absent. Professor McGonagall wasted no time in getting to the point.
“I am saddened to tell you that there had been another attack, another double attack, on two of our students. Ravenclaw Penelope Clearwater, and a student from my own House, Hermione Granger.”
Rosetta had never seen the older witch looking so distraught as the assembled teachers gasped with shock and clamoured for answers. She chanced a glance at Snape, and even the stony-faced Potions Master looked tired and resigned.
“The latest victims have been Petrified and are residing in the Hospital Wing with the other victims. And until the culprit of these vile attacks is found, we will be taking emergency measures to ensure the safety of our students. Effective immediately, all students will return to their house common rooms by six o'clock in the evening. No student is to leave the dormitories after that time. Students will be escorted to each lesson by a teacher. No student is to use the bathroom unaccompanied by a teacher. All further Quidditch training and matches are to be postponed. There will be no more evening activities. And teachers will be required to patrol the corridors of the schools every evening in pairs.”
The teachers listened in silence as the Deputy Headmistress continued in somewhat of a choked voice, “I need hardly add that I have rarely been so distressed. It is likely that the school will be closed unless the culprit behind these attacks is caught. I would urge anyone who thinks they might know anything about them to come forward.”
Rosetta felt a pang of guilt at this. Maybe if she had mentioned the voices she had been hearing last year, they would have caught the culprit and all of this could have been avoided. She made up her mind that enough was enough, and she needed to speak to Dumbledore. But where was he? Just as she had formed the thought, Professor Vector had taken those words right out of her mouth.
“The Headmaster is currently reporting to the Minister of Magic and therefore I am responsible as Deputy Headmistress until he returns to Hogwarts this evening,” McGonagall answered. “I know you will all be feeling as shocked and upset as I am. But if there is one small glimmer of hope in all of this, it is that the Mandrakes will be ready for cutting in a few weeks and the poor victims will not have to suffer any longer.”
Rosetta hurried up to her quarters after the staff meeting feeling incredibly troubled. If the Minister of Magic was now involved, then the outlook did not look good. If Dumbledore himself, one of the most formidable wizards in the United Kingdom, hadn't been able to protect the students from an unknown assailant, then what hope did the Ministry have? Would they punish Dumbledore or, like McGonagall had feared, close the school? Would they put it under the control of the Ministry?
Rosetta couldn't help feeling partly responsible for all this. She should have spoken to Dumbledore sooner, she should have trusted her instincts about the disembodied voice. The voice, it was now clear, had to be directly linked to the attacks. But how? And why was she seemingly the only person who could hear it? She was sure that Dumbledore would have theories about this but, frustratingly, she would have to wait until the evening until she could speak to him.
With a sigh, Rosetta picked up the Archidoxis magica and thumbed through it idly to pass the time before Dumbledore's return, willing it for what seemed to be the millionth time to reveal it's well-hidden and mysterious secrets.
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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 :)