Chapter 32: Mutatio in Memoria
Chapter 32 of 38
star_girlA trader on the edge of the wizarding world is about to turn Snape's world upside down.
ReviewedChapter 32: Mutatio in Memoria
Rosetta wanted to stop off at the statue of Paracelsus on her way back from Dumbledore's office, but was suddenly overwhelmed by a wave of exhaustion and had to cling to the handrail of the stairs to guide herself. Realising it must have been an adrenaline crash after the nerve-shredding events of the past twenty-four hours, she decided not to fight it and instead went back to her quarters and fell straight into bed, grateful that at least she didn't need to change into her pyjamas. It was past seven o'clock in the morning by the time Rosetta had finally got to sleep and she slept right through to the early evening. She felt like a new woman after the rest and emerged, freshly showered, dressed and famished, for dinner at the Great Hall.
The energy in the room was still buzzing with excited chatter and relief. As she shovelled down mouthfuls of chicken and leek pie, she couldn't help but notice that Severus was nowhere to be seen. Her thoughts turned to what Dumbledore had implied earlier about their burgeoning relationship and how they needed to clear the air. If Severus had been trying to protect her, she hadn't made it easy for him. But was it any wonder she had been mistrustful? Seeing the Dark Mark on his arm had reminded her all too clearly of the link he'd had with Voldemort, and it seemed more than likely in the heat of the moment that he had switched his allegiance and wanted to take the book from her for nefarious reasons rather than good.
Dumbledore certainly had an unwavering trust in Severus and Rosetta was curious to know why. Maybe his strings were being pulled by Dumbledore? She wondered if, like her, Severus was only prone to a certain amount of information from Dumbledore when it came to Harry Potter and her research on Paracelsus. She knew Severus was highly intelligent and had probably figured out some things on his own. And he clearly wasn't the nicest or most approachable of men. But still, Dumbledore had insisted that Severus was his man through and through. Perhaps she needed to gain some trust in him, too.
After dinner, Rosetta wandered down to the Dungeons to seek out Severus. She slipped past his empty Potions classroom and approached the door to his quarters. She felt the familiar nerves stirring in her stomach as she knocked on the door.
Severus opened the door after only a few moments and if he was surprised to see her he hid it well.
“Good evening, Severus,” Rosetta said hurriedly, before he had chance to say anything. “I'm sorry to disturb you. Can I come in?”
Severus silently stepped aside and let Rosetta pass through the door. She noted that his room was as immaculate as ever, with not one thing out of place. She stood awkwardly, waiting for an invitation to sit which never came. Of course, he wouldn't make this easier for her. Why would he?
“Dumbledore told me you were trying to protect me last night,” she said without any preamble.
“I was obeying his orders,” Severus replied wearily. “That's all.”
“I realise that now. I'm sorry I doubted you.”
At this, Severus raised an eyebrow. “You were right to doubt me. You trusted your instinct, and your instinct about me was perfectly correct.”
Rosetta was not expecting this response. Surely, he couldn't mean...
“You're on Voldemort's side after all?” Rosetta felt her heart jump into her throat.
Severus snorted. “Don't be foolish! Do you think I would be here right now if I was? But your instinct was not to trust me, and that at least was accurate.” His tone was bitter.
Rosetta looked puzzled. If he wasn't on Voldemort's side any longer, then why shouldn't she trust him?
“I'm not following you, Severus. Why shouldn't I trust you?”
“You don't remember me from school, do you?”
Rosetta felt the hairs creep up on the back of her neck; a premonition of something bad to follow. “Not really, no.”
“Do you want to know why?”
The breath caught in Rosetta's throat. She had come here expecting to trade an olive branch for a silly misunderstanding, but instead she had a swell of dread rise up in her once again.
“I can show you,” Severus continued, not waiting for an answer. Rosetta watched him walk to the bureau and flip down the door, revealing a Pensieve hidden underneath. “Go on, take a look.”
Gingerly, Rosetta stepped forwards towards the bureau. She both wanted to see and didn't want to at the same time. Thoughts tumbled through her brain as she approached the Pensieve, imagining what horrors could lie within, each thought more awful than the last. She saw a small image floating in the cloudy depths of the Pensieve. She glanced at Severus, unsure if she should proceed, but he merely nodded his encouragement for her to continue.
Slowly, she put her hands either side of the Pensieve and drew her face closer until it had submerged completely into the memory.
Severus could only watch as she immersed herself in his shameful past. She would be furious with him, no doubt, and she would in all likelihood never want to see him again. But she deserved the truth, and she deserved to know what kind of man he truly was: one that deserved her suspicion and mistrust.
After what felt like ages, Rosetta pulled herself shakily from the Pensieve. She found she'd been crying without realising it, and hastily wiped away her tears with the back of her hand.
“Why did you Obliviate me?” she asked in a cracked whisper.
Severus' shoulders slumped as he regarded the sorrowful witch in front of him. He was expecting anger, cursing and shouting. He wasn't expecting tears.
“I was a coward,” he confessed. “I was saving Mulciber and I from expulsion. I didn't want us to look bad in front of the Dark Lord.”
Rosetta shook her head and smiled wryly, thinking back to that night and trying to put the pieces together. She'd awoken sometime later feeling groggy and had realised quickly that she was naked except for a cloak that was far too big for her. She'd snuck back up to Ravenclaw Tower, a feeling of shame hanging over her as she'd hidden behind pillars and suits of armour along the way to avoid being seen. She'd always presumed that she had been sexually assaulted, even though there was no evidence to suggest that she had been, not being in pain or having sustained any injuries.
“All this time, I thought I'd been raped and blocked it out because of the trauma!” Rosetta choked, her voice betraying the years of bottled up hurt and anger.
Severus closed his eyes, not able to bear seeing Rosetta in so much anguish.
“I was selfish. I should have taken you up to the Headmaster's office. But all I could think about was my future with the Dark Lord. I'm sorry. But you were right not to trust me from the start.” He looked down, self-loathing etched all over his features.
Rosetta swallowed hard. “Why tell me this now? Do you really hate me that much?”
At this, Severus' mouth fell open in shock.
“Hate you? Of course I don't hate you. Quite the opposite–”
“Well you have a funny way of showing it!” Sorrow had finally given way to fury, and anger poured out of Rosetta like lava from a volcano. “How dare you fuck around with my head like this!”
“I had to be honest with you, Rosetta. You deserve to know what kind of man I am. I know Dumbledore likes to paint me as some kind of reformed character but the truth is, my allegiances might have changed but I'm still a monster underneath it all. It's better you found that out now, before something happened that you truly regret.”
Severus looked at Rosetta meaningfully, and Rosetta felt a flush of humiliation douse the hot flames of her anger. So he had noticed she was attracted to him, then. He probably found her as pathetic as a schoolgirl and wanted to be very clear that the feelings were most certainly not reciprocated. Well, this was certainly a potent way of rejecting any unwanted advances!
Rosetta bit down on her finger to stop fresh tears from falling and let out a sob as she ran out of Severus' quarters, slamming the door behind her.
Story Actions
To follow, favorite, like, and more either log in or create an account.
Leave a Review
Log in to leave a review.
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 :)