Shadows of Slytherin

As Acheron settled into the Slytherin common room, he couldn't shake off the feeling that he was being watched. The fire crackled in the hearth, casting flickering shadows on the walls as the students chatted and laughed. Mattheo, however, seemed to sense his unease, and he closed his book, his eyes locking onto Acheron's. "So, Acheron, tell me more about yourself," Mattheo said, his voice low and inviting. "What's it like being a Black? I've heard rumors about your family's... complicated history." Acheron's eyes narrowed, unsure of how much to reveal. But there was something about Mattheo that put him at ease, a sense of understanding that made him want to open up. "It's... complicated," he said, choosing his words carefully. "My family has a lot of... baggage. But I'm trying to forge my own path, make my own name." Mattheo nodded, his eyes gleaming with interest. "I think I understand. I've got my own share of family secrets, too. Maybe we can swap stories sometime?" As they talked, Acheron began to feel a sense of camaraderie with Mattheo that he hadn't experienced in a long time. It was like they had known each other for years, not just hours. But as the night wore on, Acheron started to notice that Mattheo seemed to be avoiding certain topics, like his family and his past. "Mattheo, can I ask you something?" Acheron said, his curiosity getting the better of him. "Of course," Mattheo replied, his eyes cautious. "What do you know about Professor Snape?" Acheron asked, his voice low. Mattheo's expression changed, his eyes clouding over like a stormy sky. "Not much," he said, his voice tight. "Just that he's... intense. But I'm sure he'll warm up to you eventually." Acheron wasn't convinced. He sensed that Mattheo knew more than he was letting on, but he didn't press the issue. Instead, he changed the subject, asking Mattheo about his favorite subjects and hobbies. As the night drew to a close, Acheron felt a sense of exhaustion wash over him. He was still getting used to the castle's layout, and he had a feeling that tomorrow would be a busy day. He stood up, yawning, and Mattheo followed suit. "I'm going to get some sleep," Acheron said, stretching his arms over his head. Mattheo nodded, his eyes glinting in the firelight. "Me too. But don't worry, Acheron. I'll show you the ropes around here. And maybe, just maybe, we can uncover some of the secrets that Hogwarts has to offer." As Acheron made his way to his dormitory, he couldn't shake off the feeling that Mattheo was hiding something. But he also sensed that he was a loyal friend, and that he would do whatever it took to protect him. Little did Acheron know, however, that their conversation had not gone unnoticed. From the shadows, a pair of eyes watched them, eyes that seemed to hold a deep and abiding interest in the two new friends.