The rhythmic sound of the train fills the air as the landscape blurs past the window. I sit alone, absorbed in thought, mentally reviewing the books I packed and the plans I've set in motion. Hogwarts will be my proving ground—and I will make sure no one underestimates me.
The compartment door slides open with a faint click. Two boys step in, their presence deliberate. Both dressed well, carrying themselves with confidence that speaks of old wizarding families.
The taller one, with pale hair and sharp features, offers a polite smile. "Mind if we sit here? Everywhere else seems… crowded."
I gesture calmly toward the empty seats. "Of course. Go ahead."
They sit, curiosity flickering in their eyes. After a moment, the blond one introduces himself. "I'm Abraxas Malfoy," he says smoothly, extending a hand. "And this is Orion Black."
"Tom Riddle," I reply, shaking his hand lightly, then add, almost casually, "Heir of Slytherin."
The effect is immediate. Both boys freeze for a heartbeat, eyes widening slightly as they glance at the ring gleaming on my finger—the serpent sigil of Salazar himself. Recognition and respect flash across their faces.
"So the rumors about Slytherin's bloodline surviving were true…" Orion murmurs, his tone respectful, almost reverent.
Abraxas's smile sharpens. "Then it's an honor, Riddle. You'll be in Slytherin, I presume?"
I let the faintest smirk touch my lips. "Of course."
[Silver Tongue Activated: Charm and Charisma Enhanced]
The conversation flows easily after that. Abraxas talks about his family's influence within the Ministry, Orion mentions the Blacks' long line of pureblood prestige. I respond smoothly, measured in every word—never boasting, but always hinting at power, intelligence, and control.
Within minutes, they're both laughing lightly, relaxed in my presence. Abraxas remarks that I have a "strangely compelling way of speaking." Orion calls me "refreshingly direct for someone of noble blood."
Good. They're responding exactly as I intended.
In another life, Tom Riddle had to claw his way into their respect—mocked as a potential half-blood, mistrusted, dismissed. But this time, there's no need for that. My heritage, my intelligence, and my silver tongue make me untouchable.
They don't see a poor orphan boy pretending to belong.They see a pureblood heir. A leader.
By the time the trolley witch passes, we've already discussed Hogwarts, our expectations, and which professors are worth tolerating. Abraxas offers to introduce me to a few other families once we arrive. Orion mentions that his parents would likely want to meet me someday.
I nod graciously. "That would be appreciated."
Inside, I can feel the faint thrill of victory. The first connections are forming. The first threads of influence are being woven.
[Quest Progress: Build Influence at Hogwarts — Step 1 Complete][Reward: Reputation Boost — Slytherin Circle +15]
The train rumbles on, and I glance out the window again. The sun is setting, the sky deepening into gold and crimson.
Already, things are different. Already, the game has changed.
And I haven't even reached Hogwarts yet.