Chapter 26: The Hog's Head
Chapter 26 of 38
star_girlA trader on the edge of the wizarding world is about to turn Snape's world upside down.
ReviewedChapter 26: The Hog's Head
Rosetta was out of breath by the time she'd reached the bottom of the Hogwarts grounds and had to take a few steadying breaths before Apparating; the last thing she needed was to lose focus and end up being Splinched. She inhaled deeply through her nose and out through her mouth, eyes closed with intense concentration, before turning on the spot and Apparating to the dirt path a short walk away from the Hog's Head.
As she approached the shabby old pub, Rosetta remembered the time she had encountered Dumbledore at this very spot just eight short months ago. It was outside of the Hog's Head that he had “accidentally” bumped into her and coaxed her to come for a chat up at the castle, and had then gone on to persuade her to teach at the school. It seemed fitting somehow that they would meet here, the shady place where the whole story had begun.
Bracing herself and fixing a determined look on her face, Rosetta pushed open the door and entered the pub. It looked very much like she had remembered, threadbare and grubby, with a few patrons dotted here and there, minding their own businesses over tarnished flagons of beer. There was no sign of Albus Dumbledore, however. Aberforth was behind the bar, wiping down a spillage with a dirty-looking cloth. He gave her a small nod and without asking poured her a shot of Firewhisky and sent it over to the secluded table in the far corner that Rosetta had commandeered.
Rosetta nodded her thanks and toyed with the shot, scanning the room for any signs of Albus. She didn't have to wait long; as if from nowhere, a tall figure in a grey hooded robe slipped into the seat opposite her. Only the signet ring he wore habitually on his little finger indicated his identity as his face was entirely obscured by shadow. Rosetta silently watched as Albus raised his head slightly, enough so the feeble light of the candle stub on the table illuminated his features, before he subtly drew his wand and murmured the Muffliato charm in order to protect their privacy.
“Thank you for coming, Rosetta. What is it you wanted to see me about?”
Rosetta exhaled a breath she had not realised she had been holding. Where to start? They had so much to discuss. She had no time for courtesies though; the time had come to be brutally honest.
“I know what's causing the attacks on students. It's a snake.”
Albus considered this for a second, and it looked like a lightbulb had gone off in his head. “Are you quite sure?”
Rosetta nodded, once again playing with her shot glass.
“I've been hearing it all year, without realising it. But it all clicked into place when I found out... I'm a Parselmouth, Albus.”
Albus raised his eyebrows at the news, but he didn't look angry or horrified. He looked as if he was chewing over this new piece of information like one of his trademark Sherbet Lemons.
“And how do you feel about that?”
“How do I feel? Like I could have stopped everything months ago had I realised... This whole time I've been running around solving clues to find out the secrets of Parseltongue without knowing I could speak to snakes. I feel like I've wasted so much time. Students have got hurt because of me.” Rosetta broke off miserably, feeling rather wretched.
Albus now looked rather serious. “You cannot blame yourself for the attacks, Rosetta. You have been doing everything in your power to find answers, I know too well how hard you have been working. And now you have found out the cause of the attacks. This is critical information, and I thank you for sharing it with me.”
Rosetta knew the old wizard was speaking the truth, but it didn't do much to assuage her feelings of guilt and foolishness. She sighed before continuing.
“There's something else. The bust of Paracelsus in the corridor near the Owlery has engravings of the Alphabet of the Magi all over it.”
“And have you had to chance to decode what it says?” Albus' eyes glinted in the dim candlelight.
“Not yet. I was going to do it tonight.”
Albus steepled his fingers characteristically and appeared to weigh up very carefully what he was about to say next.
“Rosetta, I think you are on the cusp of discovering something hugely important. But I'm asking you to wait a little longer before you go any further with your investigation into Paracelsus.”
Rosetta's face screwed up in puzzlement.
“What do you mean? We have the key, we have the statue... we could have the answers we've been looking for in a few hours! We can't just stop now!”
The old man closed his eyes momentarily and it seemed to Rosetta that he looked very, very tired.
“Do you remember what I told you when we first met in my office? About the rumours that had been circulating?”
How could Rosetta forget? Albus had told her that You-Know-Who was back; it was the reason they were searching for clues to unlock Parseltongue after all. A shiver ran down her spine as she realised what Albus could be implying.
“Are you saying You-Know-Who is behind all of this? That he's the Heir of Slytherin?”
In response, Albus gave her a grave, meaningful look. “If that is indeed the case, and he has managed to breach the castle with a creature that can do his bidding, then you will need to tread very carefully indeed. I trust you have told no-one else about being a Parselmouth?”
Rosetta shook her head. Well, she thought, not unless you counted the poor snake at Edinburgh Zoo.
“Good, let's keep it that way. And I think you should hide the Archidoxis magica somewhere safe too for the time being. It is my feeling that he would not like the thought of another Parselmouth around, someone who could find out his secrets or manipulate the Beast of Slytherin. If he ever found out there could be truth to the legend of Paracelsus, I have no doubt he would want to find the scrolls and destroy them. We cannot let that happen, not now we're so close to finding answers.”
Rosetta felt suddenly afraid. You-Know-Who would probably want to destroy her, too, just for being a Parselmouth. “What are we going to do?”
The old wizard gave her a steely look. “We need to lay low for now. We cannot risk making a move too soon or exposing our knowledge.”
“You mean, we do nothing and act normal? What about the snake on the loose? What about You-Know-Who?” Rosetta asked incredulously. She felt as if they were sitting ducks, waiting to be picked off one by one by the monster roaming the school.
“It's imperative Voldemort thinks everything is going his way, and that no-one knows his secret about the snake. I know it's hard, but we have to continue to let events unfold for now. If you hear the snake again, do not try to talk to it under any circumstances. Close your eyes and hurry away from the sound of the voice. I will be in touch when the time is right to act. And Rosetta?”
“Yes, Albus?”
“The information you have just given me is key, but there are other factors at play, and we need to let them play out. The safest thing you can do right now is to carry on as normal and not draw attention to yourself. I know I have asked this repeatedly of you, but please: trust me.”
Rosetta looked into the old wizard's eyes and saw the burden of knowledge he was carrying. There was more to the story clearly than he was letting on, but somehow she knew she wouldn't get anywhere if she were to press him on it. It felt like madness to carry on as usual when they now knew precisely what kind of danger they were all in. Could she allow herself to trust him again, when it felt so counter-intuitive to do so? But, she reasoned, hadn't she just asked the exact thing of Severus; asked him to trust her when she had been sneaking around and keeping secrets?
“I trust you,” Rosetta said finally, hoping that saying the words would make her actually believe it.
Albus inclined his head respectfully. “I'll be in touch soon. Take care of yourself.”
And with that, Rosetta watched him pull his hood low and leave the pub with a few long strides. She downed the Firewhisky in one gulp, trying to suppress the anxiety rising inside her.
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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 :)