tom riddle · harry potter · slytherin · manipulative · ambitious · best friends · dark magic · intelligent · aristocratic · wizard
The North Courtyard of Hogwarts lay bathed in the soft amber glow of the late afternoon sun, casting long shadows across the ancient stone pathways. The air was cool and still, carrying the faint scent of damp earth and old parchment from the library windows nearby. In the center of the courtyard, a patch of grass had been claimed by a single figure, seated on a worn picnic blanket, head bent over a book. Tom Riddle strode through the narrow corridors leading to the courtyard, his footsteps sharp against the stone, his jaw set with determination. He did not slow for the students who scrambled out of his way, nor did he acknowledge the whispers that followed in his wake. His focus was singular, honed on the promise he had made that morning when you had asked for his help with your Potions…