**Chapter 2: The Slytherin Enigma**

The Great Hall erupted in applause as Acheron took his seat at the Slytherin table, surrounded by his new classmates. Professor McGonagall, the Transfiguration teacher and Head of Gryffindor House, beamed with pride as she gazed at the first-year students. The sorting ceremony was always a highlight of the year, and this one had been particularly interesting. As Acheron scanned the room, his eyes met Mattheo's, who was sitting at the Slytherin table as well. Mattheo raised his glass in a silent toast, and Acheron couldn't help but smile. The two of them seemed to have an instant connection, and Acheron felt a thrill of excitement at the prospect of having a friend like Mattheo. Professor Snape, the Potions master and Head of Slytherin House, stood up to welcome the new students. His eyes narrowed as he gazed at Acheron, and Acheron's heart skipped a beat. He had heard rumors about Professor Snape's...let's say, complicated past with Acheron's father. "Welcome, first-years, to Slytherin House," Professor Snape said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "I trust you will all live up to the high standards of cunning, ambition, and resourcefulness that our house embodies." As the feast began, Acheron was bombarded with questions from his new classmates. They were all curious about his background, his family, and his reasons for transferring to Hogwarts. Acheron answered as best he could, trying to gauge the dynamics of his new social circle. Mattheo, however, seemed content to simply observe, his eyes flicking between Acheron and the other students. Acheron caught him staring a few times, and he felt a shiver run down his spine. There was something about Mattheo that made him feel like he was being sized up, like he was being evaluated for some unknown purpose. As the night wore on, Acheron began to feel more at ease among his new classmates. They were a diverse group, to say the least, with personalities ranging from charming to abrasive. But they all seemed to have one thing in common: a desire to succeed, no matter the cost. As the feast drew to a close, Professor McGonagall stood up to make a few announcements. "First-years, I remind you that the Hogwarts Express will be leaving for Hogsmeade village tomorrow afternoon. I advise you all to be on your best behavior and to follow the rules." Acheron listened intently, his mind already racing with plans for the next day. He was eager to explore the castle, to get to know his classmates better, and to uncover the secrets that Hogwarts held. As he left the Great Hall with his new classmates, Acheron felt a sense of excitement and trepidation. He had a feeling that this year was going to be a wild ride, and he was ready to take on whatever challenges came his way. The corridors were quiet as they made their way back to the Gryffindor-Slytherin common room divide. Acheron caught a glimpse of the Fat Friar's portrait, who smiled benevolently at him as he passed. "Welcome to Hogwarts, young Black," the Fat Friar said, his voice low and warm. "I sense that you have a great destiny ahead of you. Be careful, and always follow your heart." Acheron's heart skipped a beat as he smiled at the Fat Friar. He felt a strange sense of connection to the portrait, like he was being offered a glimpse into a larger world. As he entered the Slytherin common room, Mattheo looked up from his book, a small smile playing on his lips. "Welcome to the snake's nest, Acheron," he said, his voice low and conspiratorial. "I think we're going to get along just fine."