Tʜᴇ Dᴀʀᴋ Lᴏʀᴅ's Aɴɢᴇʟ | Tom Riddle √

103: Revelations and Disappointment

Cassiopeia Black found herself in Professor Slughorn's classroom, where he was handing out compliments and feedback on the potions brewed by the students.

"What an impressive student you are, Mr. Raven?" Slughorn complimented, admiring Tom Riddle's potion. "I suppose this time Cassiopeia has found herself a competitor."

"Well, I always knew he excels in everything," Cassiopeia grinned as Slughorn approached her potion. "Sir, I have a slight doubt about whether this was brewed correctly. I feel like something might be off."

"Let's have a look, my dear," Slughorn dropped a red leaf into the potion, which promptly turned to the darkest shade of green. "Excellent, it's perfect."

"Thanks Merlin," Cassiopeia beamed and gave Tom a thumbs-up. "Sir, I have something to discuss with you, but after the class."

"Why, of course," he replied kindly, offering a warm smile. "You can talk to me anytime you want, Cassiopeia."

She reciprocated with a smile, and Professor Slughorn moved on to assess other students' potions. Draco had also brewed a flawless potion, earning praise from Slughorn. It was a significant improvement from last year when the professor had been disappointed in Draco's performance.

Hermione and Harry from Gryffindor had brewed their potions perfectly as well, and Slughorn provided kind explanations to those who had made minor mistakes. The class continued in this manner, with Cassiopeia labeling her cauldron with her name and placing it in the corner, a habit she shared with Tom.

"I guess studying with you from last year wasn't as bad as I thought," Draco chuckled when Cassiopeia returned. "I think we can outperform that Gryffindor again this year."

The three of them spent much of their time together, but Cassiopeia made an effort to be with Draco to avoid any misunderstandings.

"I don't want to compete with anyone, Draco," she shook her head. "I just want to excel academically and pursue a career in this field after graduation."

"A career as a Potion teacher, perhaps?" Tom inquired, and she nodded.

"Exactly," Cassiopeia beamed. "I truly love this subject, and I want to share my knowledge with others."

As the class went on, lunchtime approached. Cassiopeia informed Draco that she would stay behind to speak with Slughorn, and he agreed to wait for her. Tom, however, wanted to be present for the conversation.

"Sir," Cassiopeia approached her teacher's desk. "Um, I don't know if this is a good idea, but, um..."

"Go ahead, Cassiopeia," the professor encouraged her with a warm smile, while Tom looked on, utterly puzzled. "I won't judge you."

"I've always had a desire to become a Potion teacher," she admitted, her lips pressed together, unsure of how he'd react. "Right after I graduate."

"Goodness me!" Slughorn exclaimed. "That's wonderful news. Since you're still young, you can begin as an assistant, but then you can work your way up to teaching first-year students."

"Really?" Cassiopeia widened her eyes.

"Yes, I'd be delighted to help you, my dear," Slughorn beamed. He then turned his gaze to Tom. "It seems the two of you are best friends or—"

"We're dating, sir," Tom blurted out without hesitation. "Still, you couldn't recognize me, sir?"

Tom arched an eyebrow as Cassiopeia elbowed him. Slughorn furrowed his brows, studying Tom's face as if trying to recollect something.

"I don't believe I've seen you before, Mr. Raven," Slughorn remarked, still looking at him. "Considering you're from America, it's rather unlikely, I suppose."

Cassiopeia was caught off guard by Tom's actions in front of Professor Slughorn. She had no idea what kind of game he was playing with the professor. Was he really going to reveal himself?

"But you do recall the boy who once inquired about something extremely dark, don't you?" Tom asked, flashing his unique charming smile. "Horcrux."

"Tom Riddle," Slughorn gasped, stumbling back. "Is it really you?"

Slughorn's gaze shifted to Cassiopeia, and he raised his brow, hoping to glean some information from her. She nodded apologetically.

"Oh, Merlin," the professor muttered, holding his head, struggling to grasp the unbelievable revelation. "Are you truly mad, Tom? Do you realize how dangerous it is for you to be here?"

Slughorn took a seat, burying his head in his hands, clearly overwhelmed by the situation.

"Sir, are you alright?" Cassiopeia lowered her head to meet his eyes. "You seem unwell."

"Why wouldn't I be, Cassiopeia?" Slughorn finally made eye contact with her and then turned to Tom. "I never imagined that you would use what I taught you to become a monster, Tom."

The professor's voice carried an air of complete disappointment. His eyes conveyed a sense of betrayal and the burden he had carried for years. He struggled to find the right words, his lips trembling, and his brows furrowed, creating visible lines on his forehead.

"If it weren't for her," he sighed, "Merlin only knows what would have become of you. To be honest, you were the most perfect student I've ever encountered, but you've left me with a lifetime of regret. You have no idea the weight of guilt I've carried, knowing that I played a part in creating a monster."

Cassiopeia glanced at Tom, who still had a stoic expression as he stared down at the stressed professor. She followed his gaze, realizing just how deeply the thought of being instrumental in creating a monster had affected Slughorn.

She had never seen Horace Slughorn with such a pained expression. It was no surprise that he eventually left Hogwarts. How could he bear the weight of knowing what he had inadvertently contributed to and continue to teach students?

"Sir, I think you should rest," Cassiopeia expressed her concern. "Do you need any help? Should I fetch some Calming Draught from Madame Pomfrey?"

"No, my dear," he said with a heavy sigh. "I need some space, but I would appreciate it if you could bring some Calming Draught, just in case."

"Of course, sir," Cassiopeia nodded. "I'll be back shortly."

She shot a disapproving glance at Tom for nearly upsetting the professor. He raised his brow, seemingly unaware of why she was angry. Without uttering a word, she grabbed Tom and stormed out of the classroom. Neither of them spoke as they ended up in the Hospital Wing, searching for Madame Pomfrey.

A/N

Hope you guys are doing good... I'm at the end of the writing this story.

As per the no. of chapters this is going to be end in May second week and I know it will make me cry for sure since I really love writing this story.

Let's meet Dumbledore in the next chapter :)

Stay safe and Love y'all <3

~ monoceros_x 💕