Hadrian Riddle(His Son)

The Beginning at Hogwarts

Chapter Eight:

King's Cross Station was bustling with the chaotic energy of families saying their goodbyes, the air filled with the sounds of laughter, chatter, and the occasional hoot of an owl. Hadrian Riddle navigated through the crowds with an air of cold detachment, his emerald eyes taking in every detail. Beside him walked his father, Tom Riddle, who commanded a silent respect and fear from those who recognized him.

They reached the barrier between platforms nine and ten. Voldemort placed a hand on Hadrian's shoulder, his grip firm but not unkind. "Remember, Hadrian," he said, his voice low and commanding, "you are destined for greatness. Show them your power, but do not reveal everything. Patience and control are key."

Hadrian nodded, his expression unreadable. "Yes, Father."

With a final glance at his father, Hadrian stepped forward and passed through the barrier, emerging onto Platform Nine and Three-Quarters. The scarlet Hogwarts Express stood waiting, its steam billowing into the air. Students and their families bustled about, loading trunks and saying goodbyes.

Hadrian moved through the crowd with a purpose, his presence causing some to step aside, sensing his quiet authority. He spotted Draco Malfoy and his parents near the train. Draco, noticing Hadrian, broke into a smile and waved him over.

"Hadrian! Over here!" Draco called out, his usual smirk in place.

Hadrian approached, exchanging a brief nod with Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy. Lucius gave him a respectful nod in return, while Narcissa smiled warmly.

"Ready for Hogwarts?" Draco asked, a hint of excitement in his voice.

"More than ready," Hadrian replied coolly.

After a few more minutes of conversation, the time came to board the train. Hadrian and Draco found an empty compartment near the back, away from the prying eyes of other students. As they settled in, the train gave a lurch and began its journey towards Hogwarts.

"Can you believe it? We're finally going to Hogwarts," Draco said, his voice filled with excitement. "Father says we're sure to be in Slytherin."

Hadrian nodded. "Slytherin is where we belong. Power, ambition, and resourcefulness – traits that define us."

As the train sped through the countryside, the compartment door slid open to reveal Blaise Zabini and Theodore Nott. They entered, looking at Hadrian with a mixture of respect and caution. Both boys had heard tales of Hadrian's prowess, his intelligence, and his nickname: the Master of Death.

"Mind if we join you?" Blaise asked, though it was more of a formality than a request.

Hadrian gestured to the empty seats. "By all means."

The conversation turned to Hogwarts, their expectations, and what awaited them. Draco, eager to show off, recounted his summer and the spells he had learned. Blaise and Theo listened, but their eyes often flickered to Hadrian, who remained composed and silent, exuding an air of quiet dominance.

The train ride seemed to pass quickly, and before they knew it, they were approaching Hogsmeade Station. The students disembarked, and Hadrian followed the crowd, his friends close by. They were met by the booming voice of Hagrid, the Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts.

"Firs' years! Firs' years over here!" Hagrid called, waving them towards the boats that would take them across the Great Lake to Hogwarts.

Hadrian and his companions climbed into one of the boats, and as they glided over the dark waters, the castle came into view, its windows glowing warmly against the night sky. The sight was awe-inspiring, yet Hadrian's expression remained impassive.

As they docked and made their way up to the castle, Hadrian felt a surge of anticipation. This was the beginning of a new chapter, a place where he would hone his skills and assert his dominance.

They were led into the Great Hall, where the Sorting Hat awaited. The hall was filled with students and staff, all eyes on the new arrivals. Hadrian could feel the weight of their gazes, but it did not faze him. He had been preparing for this moment his entire life.

Professor McGonagall began calling names, and one by one, the first years were sorted into their houses. Finally, it was Hadrian's turn.

"Riddle, Hadrian," McGonagall called.

Hadrian stepped forward, the hall falling silent as he approached the stool. He sat down, and the Sorting Hat was placed on his head. There was a moment of silence as the hat considered, and then it spoke, its voice echoing in his mind.

"Ah, another Riddle. I see great power in you, yes, and ambition... but also cunning and resourcefulness. A thirst to prove yourself, to surpass even the greatest of wizards. There is only one place for you... SLYTHERIN!"

The Slytherin table erupted in applause as Hadrian removed the hat and made his way over to join them. Draco, Blaise, and Theo welcomed him with open arms, and Hadrian felt a sense of satisfaction. This was where he belonged, surrounded by those who understood the importance of power and ambition.

As the feast began, Hadrian surveyed the Great Hall, his mind already working, planning his next moves. He would bide his time, learn all that he could, and when the moment was right, he would show the world what he was truly capable of.

For now, he would enjoy the feast, revel in the beginning of his journey, and take his place among the powerful. The future awaited, and Hadrian Riddle was ready to seize it.