Darkness Falls

Seven

1992 - First Year

Draco wandered the castle grounds by himself after supper. He'd managed to escape the Slytherins for a few hours after reading a letter from his father who stated how disappointed he was that he still wasn't the top of his classes. He made his way quietly through the castle, well aware that it was past curfew and he didn't want to gain another detention. As he turned the corner he heard foot steps and he immediately backed himself against the wall into one of the alcoves to hide.

"Mr Malfoy, although I admire your efforts, they are weak." Draco recognized the voice as Professor Snape, moving from his hiding spot he came face to face with the Professor and bowed his head, preparing for his lecture.

"It seems fate is on my side tonight. I have some business I would like to discuss with you, now seems as good a time as any. Follow me," Snape guided them both through the castle towards his office and closed the door behind him once they were both inside.

"You're aware that I am good friends with your parents," Snape spoke as he moved to sit himself on a dark leather chair.

Draco nodded as he sat opposite him, curious as to where he was going with this.

"Your mother has informed me of the lessons she has been giving you and your progress. She has asked me to continue them with you."

Draco stilled. He hadn't expected to have to endure another lesson until he returned home after school had finished, "You know Occlumency?"

"Who do you think taught your mother?"

Draco hadn't actually thought to ask how his mother had learned to become skilled in Occlumency. He shifted in his seat and waited for Snape to continue. He wasn't entirely comfortable at the idea of his tutor rummaging around in his head.

"Your mother has stressed the importance of keeping this secret. Nobody will find out about the lessons, never mind what images your pubescent mind puts together."

Draco blushed. He hoped to have a handle on this sooner rather than later before there really was anything to be concerned about, "When will the lessons start?"

"I have spoken with Dumbledore and told him that you've taken an interest in Potions. You will be having 2 sessions a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays with myself to advance your knowledge in Potions. That is when we will do it."

Draco relaxed slightly when he realized that today was Thursday and he would have a few days before his lessons would start.

Snape smirked and rose to his feet, "You may think that you've gotten away with not having a lesson this week but today is Thursday, therefore, I'm going to see what we are dealing with. I don't expect you to be able to do anything to block me, I just simply want to know what I'm working with. Brace yourself Draco, I'm not going to be as delicate as your mother. Legillimens!"

Draco felt his head crack. He couldn't figure out if his head had smacked against something or if his brain had split in half as Snape invaded his mind. Draco knew when he had his lessons with his mother that she was holding back. He knew it could be worse and Snape hadn't lied, this was a very different experience.

When his mother performed the spell he felt a coldness travel up is spine and freeze his head. He could feel and taste ice and every time she scratched away at the memory he got colder and colder. This was different, nothing about this was cold. He felt his mind burst into flames instantly whilst every inch of his body burned. His mouth had dried completely and he couldn't so much as choke on the lack of air he was getting, never mind form words to beg him to stop. The further into his mind Snape ventured, the more Draco felt his back arch. He was fully prepared for it to snap at any moment as he tried to fight against the spell.