Chapter 21: A Stroll In The Moonlight
Chapter 21 of 38
star_girlA trader on the edge of the wizarding world is about to turn Snape's world upside down.
ReviewedChapter 21: A Stroll In The Moonlight
Dinner in the Great Hall that evening was a rather sombre affair, with the Headmaster still conspicuous by his absence. Afterwards, the students were escorted by their Heads of Houses back to the common rooms by six o'clock as McGonagall had instructed, and then the teachers met once more to be given a rota for their evening patrols. It came as a great surprise to Rosetta to find that she'd been paired with Snape. Was it coincidence, or had McGonagall began to notice their brief breakfast banter? Either way, Rosetta felt doubly nervous as she made her way to meet the Potions Master to scout out the ground floor corridors. She was still feeling rather shaken after hearing the voice earlier and was afraid she might hear it again. Rumours had resurfaced throughout the day about the Chamber of Secrets and the Heir of Slytherin, and Rosetta couldn't help but mull over what it might all mean. She thought back to her conversation in October with Pomona about an Acromantula being suspected of the attack fifty years ago. Surely, it couldn't be the same beast? Surely, they would have got rid of it the first time round?
She was also still racked with guilt for her inaction over hearing the voices in the first place, which may well have allowed further attacks to happen. Plus, as much as she'd been hoping for a chance to converse with Snape beyond their morning interactions, this couldn't have been worse timing. She needed to find Dumbledore at the earliest opportunity.
Snape was waiting for Rosetta at the bottom of the main staircase. He cut an imposing figure, dressed head-to-foot in black and flanked by two flaming torches which cast shimmering shadows on the walls. The pale moon shone through the high leaded windows and gave his pale features an almost otherworldly look. The knot in Rosetta's stomach twisted even more as she drank in the sight of him. Yes, it looked like her crush was in full effect, and now she had to go for a little stroll in the moonlight with the object of her affections. Was fate trying to tell her something?
“Good evening, Professor Stone,” Snape greeted her politely in a low voice as he caught sight of her approach. As ever, his face was unreadable.
“Good evening,” she answered quietly. “And please, call me Rosetta.”
Snape inclined his head at this, but made no invitation in kind of his own.
“Shall we begin clockwise? Then we can double-back on ourselves.”
“Fine with me.”
They fell in step together, the sounds of their boots clicking softly along the corridor. All the while Rosetta's pulse was racing and she felt like she was one big bag of nerves. She was acutely aware of the figure next to her; his height and also his smell. A light smoky sandalwood aroma, that was unmistakably masculine and unmistakably him. Their proximity seemed to provoke a flight or fight response in her, and she didn't know if she wanted to fling herself at him or run away. As if to make matters worse, every shadow seemed to make her jump as she found herself straining to listen out for the mysterious voice.
Her edginess did not go unnoticed.
“Is there something the matter, Rosetta?”
The sound of her name on his tongue was unfamiliar and delicious; his rich baritone made the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. But where to start answering that question? She had been hearing voices like a crazy person, she probably could have prevented more attacks on innocent people by confiding in Dumbledore months ago and she now had the hots for the Head of Slytherin. Neither of which she wanted to admit to anyone, let alone him. And now she was a jittering wreck, and looked weak and foolish infront of the very person who seemed to despise those traits.
“I'm sorry for being jumpy,” she sighed, turning to face him. “It's just these recent attacks have really shaken me up. I thought they were pranks that had gone too far at first, but now I don't know what to think.” She looked into his eyes. “What do you think?”
Snape considered this for a moment. “I have concerns for the future of the school if the culprit is not found soon.”
“Do you have any ideas who the culprit may be?”
Now it was Snape's turn to sigh. “I know Dumbledore has a theory, but as to what that may be I have absolutely no idea.”
Rosetta's interest was peaked. Now, she had even more reason to find Dumbledore once her patrol duty was over.
Snape's attention was caught by a shadow flickering across one of the old suits of armour that lined the corridor. He swiftly lit his wand by casting Lumos and used the tip of it to flick up the helmet visor and in doing so, released a puff of dust which made him sneeze.
“Bless you. But what about the whole Chamber of Secrets stuff? Do you think there's any truth to it? Could the culprit be the so-called Beast of Slytherin, the same giant spider that was thought to have killed that poor girl fifty years ago?” Rosetta knew she was treading on thin ice by asking this, because judging by Snape's reaction at Hallowe'en it was clear that he saw the Heir of Slytherin rumours as nothing more then a smear campaign against his House. Say what you wanted about the man but he was loyal as any Hufflepuff when it came to defending the House of Slytherin.
“Aspersions on my House aside, it seems highly unlikely that any beast could lie hidden and dormant in this castle for hundreds of years, let alone a giant spider. In any case, I would have thought the Beast of Slytherin would have been some kind of snake, wouldn't you? The unfortunate death of a pupil all those years ago to my mind was nothing more than a tragic instance of being in the wrong place at the wrong time...”
Snape had continued walking as he spoke, but Rosetta was now standing still on the spot as if fixed there by a Freezing Charm. Her eyes were wide open as the realisation began to dawn on her. Some kind of snake. Of course, it was so obvious! If Slytherin's Heir had a beast, it would of course be a snake, the symbol of Slytherin House. A snake that could be commanded with Parseltongue! At this, another thought struck her which sent chills down her spine. Perhaps the voice she'd been hearing was someone or something speaking Parseltongue. Perhaps she, Rosetta, was a Parselmouth too?
“Rosetta?” Snape had noticed Rosetta had fallen behind and had stopped a few paces ahead.
“I'm sorry, Severus, I have to go.”
And with that, Rosetta sprinted towards the Headmaster's office, leaving Snape looking confused and with the slightest hint of disappointment.
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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 :)