Disclaimer: I don't own HP, Rowling does (and boy is she making a mess out of it).

Back Story - prologue

Albus Dumbledore looked at the boy sitting in front of him. "And tell me, why should I hire you?"

The boy looked at Albus thoughtfully, "Because I can bring upon a new era of Defense Against the Dark Arts?" He said, stolidly.

With a sigh, Albus adopted a glazed expression. "A new era? Why - No, how would you - wait, what new era are you talking about?"

With a great huff, the boy started verbalizing his thoughts, "Well Professor, in the history of Hogwarts nearly every DADA professor was horrible-"

Albus peered at the boy, "I'm sorry that I have to interrupt you, but I was a DADA professor too - and quite good too."

The boy looked scornful, "Oh yes, and that's why you were fired from the job and became a transfiguration professor."

"I'll have you know, I wasn't - well, technically I was, but I was removed because I was far too powerful for the ministry's liking. Thus they barred me from ever taking this position again." Albus looked thoughtful for a second. "And criticizing me isn't really helping your case."

"My sincere apologies headmaster!" The boy didn't look sincere at all, a fake expression Albus knew all too well. How many times he had gotten detention from Professor Perrywinkle for lying to his face - good times. "But in reality I promise to bring a new atmosphere. Think about it - DADA will be taught by someone who the students can relate too! Imagine a suitable environment for the kids!"

"And the same kids will never accept your authority." Albus said to him. The boy looked at Albus, and for a second he thought that the boy's eyes flashed red. 'Too many sweets...'

The boy looked radiant, as if he had an answer for it. "Don't worry Professor - I conquered- erm, united the entire Slytherin house. Single-handed, of course."

"Uh huh. And tell me, how will you unite them in a classroom setting?" Albus asked meaningfully.

"I shall show them true power- I mean, I will help them in broadening their perspective on life and relations. Along with showing them my power." He said, looking at Albus confidently. "Then they shall see that their thoughts don't matter in the bigger picture."

Albus looked confused, "What? Their thoughts won't matter - what?"

"I never said that Professor! Of course their opinions would matter! Of course, only as long as the conversation goes the way I want it too." He said.

Albus scrutinized the boy, "Uh huh..."

"Oh yes Professor, I almost forgot!" He pulled out a small coupon from his pocket, and handed it to Albus.

"What is this?" Albus asked, confused.

"Well Professor, this is a limited edition 3-year all-you-can-eat candy coupon to the brand new candy store in Diagon Alley." The boy said, not mentioning the fact he threatened the poor candy shop owner with torture and death if he didn't give him the coupon.

Albus looked at him for the briefest of moments before he adopted a blissful expression. "Very well - congratulations! You are Hogwarts newest Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor!" He said as he extended his hand towards him.

The boy shook the offered hand. "Thank you very much professor!"

"Ah but the pleasure is all mine! Glad to have you on board..." Albus paused for a second, "Professor Riddle."

Tom Riddle gave a sly smile.

END