Chapter 23: An Interview with a Snake
Chapter 23 of 38
star_girlA trader on the edge of the wizarding world is about to turn Snape's world upside down.
ReviewedChapter 23: An Interview With A Snake
Rosetta's head felt thick and full of cotton wool the following morning after a restless night full of anxious thoughts. She'd barely slept, tossing and turning and replaying the events of the previous night over and over, with her mind full of unanswered questions. She attended a very hushed and subdued breakfast, where McGonagall announced Dumbledore and Hagrid's departure from the school. Everyone looked utterly crushed, and even Snape's usual scowl had been replaced with what looked to be weary regret.
There was no post-breakfast banter this time. As Snape met Rosetta on the stairs leading down from the teacher's table she gave him a sad smile and in return, although his expression was typically neutral, she could see a glimpse of sorrow in his eyes as he politely gestured for her to descend the stairs in front of him in silence.
After the doleful breakfast, Rosetta had managed to pull her jumbled thoughts from the previous night into some kind of order, and she decided that her first priority was how to prove if she was a Parselmouth or not. She considered using Serpensortia to conjur a snake, which had seemed to have worked for Harry Potter during the Duelling Club as he had apparently spoken to the snake, but this didn't feel good enough somehow. Rosetta wanted to be in front of a living, breathing, non-magical snake. The only problem being, their weren't many wild snakes in the Scottish Highlands. Rosetta could have gone abroad to sunnier climes to hunt down a serpent, but she was not a snake expert: it could have been dangerous to approach the first snake she saw in the wild as there were hundred of poisonous species out there. And besides, Rosetta wanted answers quickly; she didn't have time to find any in their natural habitat, so she had to think again.
Rosetta decided a trip to the local Muggle zoo would be the quickest and safest option. She donned her least wizarding clothes and left Hogwarts mid-morning, Apparating from Hogsmeade to a secluded part of Murrayfield Golf Club and made her way on foot to Edinburgh Zoo. The whole trip took less than an hour but she spent the last leg of the journey feeling slightly furtive as she tried to casually blend in with sight-seekers and residents going about their Sunday morning business on the streets of the Scottish capital.
Rosetta followed the street signs to the zoo until she reached the wide glass-fronted entrance area. There were crowds of people milling about inside and she quickly spotted the queue for tickets and joined the line. She had no Muggle currency, but a quick and discreet Confundus Charm on the front of house staff was enough to gain entry.
It didn't take long for Rosetta to find the reptile enclosure, but to her disappointment, only two snakes were on show. The first was a snoozing giant Boa Constrictor, curled around a branch. Rosetta was not afraid of snakes, but the Boa was massive and would probably be very angry to be woken up. In the tank opposite was a Taiwan Beauty Snake, which was highly alert and looking at Rosetta curiously. He was a stunning olive green with mottled dark spots down his back and a black stripe across each of his eyes. His tongue flickered as she approached the tank and rested her hands on the cool glass.
The only other visitors in the reptile enclosure were a pair of chattering children, who squealed and giggled at the lizards in the far corner. Rosetta waited patiently for them to grow bored and leave, then locked the door with magic behind them so she was at last alone with the snake.
How to begin? She'd come all this way, but now she was here she didn't know what to say and felt rather embarrassed. To her great surprise, the snake spoke first.
“You're not one of them, are you?”
Rosetta's stomach plummeted to the floor and her first impulse was to look around to see if the voice came from elsewhere. But it there was no-one else around; it was definitely the serpent that had spoken.
“You don't work here, do you?” the snake persisted, his voice almost like a drawn-out whisper. Whilst the tone was slightly different to the one she'd heard in the castle, higher in pitch and softer somehow, there were striking similarities and there was now no doubting that the disembodied voice was indeed Parseltongue.
Rosetta's mouth felt very dry and she felt quite dizzy, but she managed to answer. “N-No, I don't work here.”
“Shame. It's about time for my mid-morning mouse.” The snake weaved and rose up, seemingly to get a better look at her.
Rosetta swallowed. “Do you usually speak to the staff here?”
“Oh, I try. But they don't seem to understand me. Why can you?”
“It's hard to explain,” Rosetta answered, and then a thought came to her out of the blue. “Have you ever spoken to anyone else?”
The snake seemed to regard her with his clever black eyes before replying. “No, I have never spoken to a human before. It is strange... ”
Rosetta thought that was putting it mildly. If it was strange for the serpent, it was downright bizarre for Rosetta. She asked more questions and the snake enthusiastically told her about being born in the zoo, and how it could get lonely from time to time, and how the Boa in the tank opposite was fairly pleasant but was a bit like an elderly relative in that it could be a little exasperating after a while. It also said something that took Rosetta by surprise.
“The more I talk with you, the more I am compelled to be with you. Will you take me with you?”
The snake was now right at the front of the tank and looking up at Rosetta with what could only be described as affection, if snakes could feel such an emotion. It seemed to her as if the act of speaking Parseltongue to the viper had made it compliant in some way, that the language itself had lured the snake to her and she was quite confident she could have asked it to do things on her behalf without needing to coerce it with magic. This would explain why You-Know-Who found it so easy to get snakes to do his bidding, as they appeared to give themselves of their own free will to those who could speak to them.
Rosetta felt sad for the snake, lonely and sweet-natured as he was, politely declined the offer of taking him away and reassured him that she would come and visit him again and bring mice with her next time.
By the time Rosetta returned to Hogwarts it was lunch time, but she didn't feel much like eating. She was still processing that she was indeed a Parselmouth, with all that implied. From where had she acquired the skill? Neither her mother or her father were Parselmouths, of that she was quite sure. However, it was common knowledge that all wizarding families were related somehow, no matter how distantly, and although she did not know how far back her ancestry went, it was not impossible for her to have ancestors that could speak Parseltongue.
But there was no time for a family history lesson just yet as there were still other questions to answer. Like, what kind of snake could be hiding in the castle, and just who was talking to it? Did Dumbledore already know? Rosetta thought back to her conversation in the summer with the absent Headmaster, when he'd first offered her the teaching job. He'd told her that You-Know-Who was back. Her eyes widened as she fully realised what this could mean. The Heir of Slytherin – could it really be You-Know-Who?
The time for speculation was over; Rosetta had to get a message to Dumbledore.
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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 :)