Chapter 27: The Darkest Hour
Chapter 27 of 38
star_girlA trader on the edge of the wizarding world is about to turn Snape's world upside down.
ReviewedChapter 27: The Darkest Hour
The following weeks saw Rosetta feeling extremely conflicted and tense. Part of her trusted Dumbledore and what he had told her made sense: she knew she shouldn't draw any undue attention to herself, and if he had a bigger plan (which she suspected he must have) then any reckless moves on her part could potentially jeopardise that. But the other part of her, the part burning with curiousity and frustration at having to do nothing but sit and wait, could not be quelled. Knowing the beast was a snake, and not being able to share that information filled her with a sense of wretched guilt. The snake had to be huge; Rosetta suspected a Basilisk but couldn't say for certain. If there was a Basilisk roaming the school then surely it wouldn't be too long before someone got killed?
Rosetta found that the stress of it all had made her extremely irritable and snappy with her classes, who were already under pressure with imminent exams looming in a matter of days, and even the hint of summer creeping over the Hogwarts grounds and the announcement that that Mandrakes were finally ready to be cut and the Revivication Potion could now be administered to all those who had been Petrified did little to raise her spirits.
It was mid-morning on one of the last days of term, and Rosetta had been in a particularly foul mood with the Year 7 Slytherins, who were uncharacteristically cowed. She'd sent them out of class five minutes before the bell went as she couldn't bear to be in the same room as them a moment longer. It wasn't like they were going to achieve grades any higher than a 'T' anyway; it was a giant waste of time trying to teach such a group of bigoted and uncaring individuals the subtleties of magical languages.
Rosetta put her elbows on the desk and her head in her hands as she waited for the blessed relief of the school bell to signal break time, which meant twenty uninterrupted minutes to herself. But the school bell never came; instead, echoing through the corridors came Professor McGonagall's voice, magically magnified.
“All students to return to their house dormitories at once. All teachers return to the staff room. Immediately, please.”
Rosetta sat bolt upright and she felt like she had been doused with water. Every time the professors had been summoned to the staff room previously it had meant an attack had occurred. Rosetta found herself praying to a God she did not even believe in that this wasn't the case this time, but she knew deep down something was desperately wrong.
Hoping against hope and with a knot of anxiety lodged in her stomach, she made her way up to the Staff Room as quickly as she could. More teachers filtered in after her, some looking puzzled, others looking downright scared. Rosetta caught Severus' eye and as usual his expression was unreadable. After a few minutes, the Headmistress arrived looking pale and tense.
“It has happened,” she told the silent staff room. “A student has been taken by the monster. Right into the Chamber itself.”
Filius let out a squeal. Pomona clapped her hands over her mouth. Rosetta felt like she was going to vomit. Severus gripped the back of a chair very tightly and said, “How can you be sure?”
“The heir of Slytherin,” said the Headmistress, who was very white, “left another message. Right underneath the first one. Her skeleton will lie in the Chamber for ever.”
Rosetta was rooted to the spot, wrestling with her conscience. Should she say something about knowing what was in the Chamber and what was causing the attacks? Or should she stay loyal to Dumbledore and say nothing at all? Whilst she was deliberating, Filius burst into tears.
“Who is it?” asked Rolanda Hooch, who had sunk, weak-kneed, into a chair. “Which student?”
“Ginny Weasley,” said the Headmistress. “We shall have to send all the students home tomorrow. This is the end of Hogwarts. Dumbledore always said...”
The staff-room door banged open and for one wild moment, Rosetta was sure it would be Dumbledore. But it was Gilderoy Lockhart, and he was beaming.
“So sorry – dozed off – what have I missed?”
He didn't seem to notice that the other teachers were looking at him with something remarkably like hatred. Severus stepped forward.
“Just the man,” he said in a silky, dangerous tone. “The very man. A girl has been snatched by the monster, Lockhart. Taken into the Chamber of Secrets itself. Your moment has come at last.”
“That's right, Gilderoy,” chipped in Pomona. “Weren't you saying just last night that you've known all along where the entrance to the Chamber of Secrets is?”
“I – well, I –“ spluttered Lockhart.
“Yes, didn't you tell me you were sure you knew what was inside it?” piped up Filius.
“D-did I? I don't recall...”
“I certainly remember you saying you were sorry you hadn't had a crack at the monster before Hagrid was arrested,” said Severus smoothly. “Didn't you say the whole affair had been bungled, and that you should have been given a free rein from the first?”
“I... I really never... You may have misunderstood...”
“We'll leave it to you, then, Gilderoy,” said the Headmistress crisply. “Tonight wil be an excellent time to do it. We'll make sure everyone's out of your way. You'll be able to tackle the monster all by yourself. A free rein at last.”
Lockhart gazed desperately around him, but nobody came to his rescue. He didn't look remotely handsome or dashing any more. His lip was trembling, and in the absence of his usually toothy grin he looked weak-chinned and weedy.
“V-very well,” he said. “I'll – I'll be in my office, getting – getting ready.” And with that, he left the room.
“Right,” said the Headmistress, whose nostrils were flared, “that's got him out from under our feet. The Heads of Houses should go and inform their students what has happened. Tell them the Hogwarts Express will take them home first thing tomorrow. Will the rest of you please make sure no students have been left outside their dormitories.”
Rosetta was left feeling sick to her very stomach. As the teachers rose to leave one by one, Severus gave her a consolatory nod before striding off to do his Head of House duties. As the crowd of staff dwindled, it struck her that if school was being closed tomorrow, then there would be no chance for her continue her investigation into Paracelsus, and no chance to finish the research into Parseltongue which she'd painstakingly put so much effort into.
She'd told Dumbledore she would not tell anyone about being a Parselmouth or about the snake, and she would continue to uphold that side of the promise, despite the intense feelings of guilt and shame it was causing her. But she would not let the fruit of her efforts turn to ashes and waste a year of her life. She'd made up her mind; tonight, she was going to visit the bust of Paracelsus.
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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 :)