Tommy, we had this talk before.

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

And your attention returns to me?

Interesting, but not altogether surprising.

Comments

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

Ah, I like the way you think. However, in this case, it was inevitable that her attention would stray. She is not someone with the focus I possess.

[asthedrivensnow]

Perhaps she simply needs to be more firmly convinced.

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

I won't accept anything less.

[asthedrivensnow]

Obviously you'll need to be... persuasive, especially if her attention has wandered previously. Will she send you somewhere, do you think?

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

I won't have any trouble there. [A self-assured grin follows that statement.] She might. That remains to be seen.

[asthedrivensnow]

Mm, I didn't think you would. [She's worn that same tie.] As does your satisfaction with her choice, I'm sure.

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

Am I right in assuming that you are a Pureblood Witch? [The way she speaks is certainly a tip off.] I do not give praise when it isn't earned or deserved.

[asthedrivensnow]

You are; my name is Narcissa Black.

[Head tilt.]

You might try thinking of it as gentle encouragement; drawing flies with honey, and the like.

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

From the illustrious House of Black? [So she is probably a Slytherin.] A pleasure. My name is Tom Riddle.

[He nods faintly.] A good suggestion, however I do not wish to look weak.

[asthedrivensnow]

We prefer Ancient and Noble, but yes. [She's a relatively recent graduate.]

Praise needn't signify weakness; it's merely acknowledgement of expectations that have been exceeded. The fact that you're out and about instead of languishing in her head can only be a good thing.

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

Toujours Pur. I remember. [And he is about to begin his Seventh Year.]

She has yet to exceed any of my expectations. [He frowns slightly.] I have found myself in less than desirable company, yet I cannot say I was languishing.

[asthedrivensnow]

[Nice work playing to her family pride.]

Then perhaps she'll exceed your estimations. It's better than nothing.

And if not languishing, then what, Mister..? [He has the advantage of her, here.]

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

[He knows this game.]

My name is Tom Riddle, and, forgive me, if my expectations are high. I hold myself to a rigorous standard and I would expect no less from those around me.

[asthedrivensnow]

[That name she knows, but her expression never falters.]

You're on a trophy for services to the school; I think you attended with my father, or his siblings and cousins.

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

It is very likely that I did. As for that trophy, I was given it recently for helping rid the School of a rather bothersome - and murderous - pest.

[asthedrivensnow]

Oh? Do tell.

[i_am_lord_voldemort]

It was an Acromantula and it was owned - if such a beast can be owned - by a wayward student. He has since been expelled.

[asthedrivensnow]

...that sounds suspiciously like something the groundskeeper would do. The man is completely mad.