Riddles Past and What's Behind It (Demo)

For The Last Time

Minerva McGonagall stood at the front of her Transfiguration classroom, gazing out at her seventh-year students. They were a small group this year, due to the war, but she was determined to give them the best education possible.

"Good morning, class," she said. "Today we will be working on advanced transfiguration techniques. I hope you're all ready to put in some hard work."

The students nodded, and Minerva began her lecture. She explained the principles behind animagi transformation, and how difficult it was to achieve. Many had tried and failed over the years, but it remained a coveted ability among witches and wizards.

"Now, I know this is a difficult topic, but I have faith in all of you," she said, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I want you to focus on the magic inside you, and let it guide your transfiguration. Remember, magic is not just a series of incantations and wand movements, it is a force that flows through all living things."

The students set to work, practicing their transfiguration spells and incantations. Minerva walked around the classroom, offering tips and advice to each student as needed.

As the class progressed, the students became more confident in their abilities. They began to see the magic within themselves, and how it could be used to create incredible transformations. By the end of the lesson, several had achieved partial animagi transformations, and Minerva was pleased with their progress.

"Excellent work, everyone," she said, beaming with pride. "I can see that you are all on your way to becoming powerful witches and wizards. Remember, hard work and determination are the keys to success in the magical world."

The students gathered their books and wands, and filed out of the classroom, their faces glowing with excitement and pride. Minerva McGonagall watched them go, feeling a sense of satisfaction at the thought of the great things they would achieve in the future.

MCGONAGALL AFTER CLASS...

Minerva McGonagall had been watching Tom Riddle for some time now, and she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off about him. She decided to take a chance and ask him to stay after class one day.

"Tom, could you please stay behind for a moment?" she asked as the rest of the students filed out of the classroom.

Tom looked at her curiously. "Of course, Professor. Is there something you need?"

Minerva hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath. "I just wanted to talk to you, Tom. You're a very talented student, and I'm curious about what you plan to do after you leave Hogwarts."

Tom's expression remained impassive. "I haven't decided yet, Professor. There are many paths open to me."

"I see," said Minerva, her eyes fixed on Tom's face. "And what is it that you want most in life, Tom?"

Tom's eyes flickered, but he quickly composed himself. "I want power, Professor. The power to control my own destiny, and the destiny of others."

Minerva's heart sank at his answer. She had suspected as much, but it was still a shock to hear it spoken aloud. "And how do you plan to achieve that power, Tom?"

Tom's lips curved into a small smile. "I have my methods, Professor. I believe that knowledge is power, and I intend to gain as much knowledge as possible."

Minerva's stomach churned at the thought of what Tom might do with that knowledge. She had a sinking feeling that she was seeing the beginning of a dark path, one that could lead to great harm.

"Tom, I urge you to think carefully about your goals and the path you choose to achieve them," she said, her voice trembling slightly. "The choices you make now will shape the person you become, and the legacy you leave behind."

Tom's expression remained unreadable as he nodded. "Thank you for your advice, Professor. I will keep it in mind."

Minerva watched as Tom gathered his books and walked out of the classroom. She couldn't shake the feeling that she had just had a brush with something dark and dangerous, and she wondered what the future held for Tom Riddle.

THE NEXT DAY...

TOM GOING TO HOGSMEADE...

Tom Riddle sat at a table in the Three Broomsticks, nursing a butterbeer and contemplating his next move. He had just finished his studies at Hogwarts, and was wondering what he should do next. As he looked around the busy pub, he spotted Margot Droope, a fellow Slytherin from his year.

"Hello, Margot," he said, beckoning her over. "Congratulations on your award, I heard you've been doing very well since leaving Hogwarts."

Margot smiled at him, her eyes sparkling with pride. "Thank you, Tom. It's been an exciting time for me, and I'm honored to receive the recognition."

Tom nodded, impressed despite himself. He had always been a bit envious of Margot's quick mind and sharp wit. "What was the award for, if I may ask?"

Margot leaned in, her voice lowered. "It was for my work in the field of dark magic, Tom. I've been studying some of the more dangerous branches of magic, and my research has been attracting attention from some very powerful people."

Tom's eyes narrowed, his curiosity piqued. "Really? That's quite impressive. What have you been studying, exactly?"

Margot grinned, looking almost manic. "Oh, all sorts of things. Curses, hexes, potions...you name it. I've always had a fascination with the darker side of magic, and I've been able to use my skills to great effect."

Tom's mind raced as he listened to Margot's words. He knew that he was capable of great things, but he had never considered delving into dark magic. The idea both intrigued and frightened him.

"I see," he said, his tone carefully neutral. "Do you ever worry about the consequences of working with such dangerous magic?"

Margot's expression grew cold. "Worry? Why should I worry? I have power, Tom. And power is all that matters in this world."

Tom studied her for a moment, his mind racing. He realized that Margot was a force to be reckoned with, and that he would need to tread carefully if he wanted to stay on her good side.

"Of course, Margot. You're absolutely right," he said, nodding. "Power is everything."

The two of them continued to talk long into the night, discussing their plans and ambitions for the future. As Tom listened to Margot's plans, he realized that he had a lot to learn about the world of magic. But he was determined to learn as much as possible, and to use that knowledge to achieve his own goals.