So, while working on the second chapter to this story, I realized that around this time World War 2 and the rise of Grindelwald is going on. Since, Tom's school years are taking place in the 1940s.

Man, J.K. Rowling could do a lot with this. I want to know what was going on this boy's head aside from immortality and murder while there were two wars simultaneously happening.

In the meantime I tried my best to incorporate as much as I could with the information I have with both the real world and the wizarding world.

Happy reading.

Chapter 2: Embers of War

The summer sun hung high in the sky as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry bid farewell to its students. The bustling platform was filled with students saying farewell to their friends, as the Hogwarts Express stood proudly, ready to embark on its journey outside of the enchanted castle.

Among the crowd, Kavya stood with her trunk, her heart heavy with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. Cinnamon was by her side. Her loyal corgi was wagging its tail as students passed them. She took a deep breath, reminding herself that this summer would be different. She would no longer be going home to her parents in Ashford. She would be staying in the quiet village of Little Hangleton now. With her aunt and uncle offering her a home, she no longer faced the prospect of spending the holidays alone.

As she made her way through the bustling crowd, Kavya spotted familiar faces. Some greeted her warmly, while others cast curious glances in her direction. Rumors of her involvement in the events surrounding Myrtle's death had spread throughout the school, leaving her somewhat of an enigma.

She stepped onto the train and found an empty compartment to lay her luggage. Cinnamon jumped up on the seat resting his paws after the long walk. Kavya found a seat near the window, watching as the rest of the students pile into the train. Her thoughts drifted to Tom Riddle, the boy she once loved, who had taken a path she could not follow. The memories of their time together were bittersweet, filled with both joy and sorrow. She wondered what the new school year would bring and if their paths would cross once more.

The compartment door slid open, and Kavya's attention snapped back to the present. It was Myrtle's parents, who had boarded the train to see her off. Their eyes were filled with a mix of gratitude and sorrow as they expressed their gratitude for Kavya's presence at Myrtle's funeral.

"I can't thank you enough for being there for Myrtle," Mr. Warren said, his voice filled with emotion. "She spoke of you often, and she cherished your friendship."

Kavya's eyes filled with tears as she nodded. "Myrtle was a special person. I miss her dearly, and I promise to keep her memory alive."

Mrs. Warren reached out and gently squeezed Kavya's hand. "You have a kind heart, Kavya. Myrtle would want you to carry on and find happiness."

Kavya managed to smile weakly, grateful for their words of support. As the train chugged along, she felt a mix of sadness and determination. She would honor Myrtle's memory by seeking the truth and justice she deserved. No matter the cost. She watched them give her one final wave goodbye as the train was ready to depart and return to King's Cross.

The train rattled on, and as Kavya gazed out of the window, her thoughts continued towards Tom. She didn't even see him on the platform. Perhaps he was already on the train. The last time they had spoken, their relationship had ended in turmoil and heartbreak. She wondered what had become of him, how he had changed since then. She couldn't deny the lingering emotions she felt, the memories that haunted her. But she also knew that she had to focus on her own path and the challenges that lay ahead.

As the Hogwarts Express rolled to a gentle stop at King's Crowe station, Kavya's heart raced with a mixture of anticipation and trepidation. The platform was a flurry of activity, filled with students bidding farewell to their friends and greeting their family. Well, those who had families to go to. Despite the turmoil affecting the students of Hogwarts and the unknown fate of the wizarding world. The muggle world was having its own share of problems with the war. The sound of an air raid siren could be heard as students got off the train.

Kavya took a deep breath, her hand clutching her wand tightly. She knew getting involved with this war wouldn't be something she would want to do, but if it meant helping people, she would at least try without exposing any muggle to the wizarding world. She then started gathering her belongings and preparing to step onto the platform and face the summer ahead. Cinnamon followed her closely. The blaring sounds of the siren was scaring him.

Amidst the bustling crowd, her eyes caught sight of a familiar figure descending from the train. It was Tom, his tall and enigmatic presence commanding attention even amidst the chaos. Their gazes met briefly, an unspoken understanding lingering between them, before Kavya turned her attention away.

"Kavya! Over here!" a voice called out, pulling her back to the present moment. She turned to find her aunt and uncle, smiling warmly as they approached. They were her mother's younger sister, Anjali, and her husband, Rahul. Despite their shared grief over the loss of Kavya's parents, they had opened their home and their hearts to her.

Walking towards her aunt and uncle, she greeted them with a smile. "Aunt Anjali, Uncle Rahul! It's so good to see you."

Cinnamon was barking and wagging his tail at them trying to get their attention for affectionate patting or a treat.

Anjali enveloped Kavya in a warm embrace. "It's good to see you too, dear. We've missed you."

Anjali a warm-hearted woman with a friendly smile that brightens up her face. She has gentle brown eyes that reflect her kindness and compassion. Her dark, wavy hair is often tied back neatly. She was wearing a knee-length floral dress along with a cardigan and easy-going flats. Being a seamstress, fashion came naturally to her. Although, since the war, she hasn't been getting much business.

Rahul nodded, a gentle smile gracing his face. "Welcome home, Kavya." He was s a jovial man with a good sense of humor. He has a sturdy build and a friendly face with a beard that he keeps neatly trimmed. His eyes twinkle with mischief, and his laughter is infectious. He enjoyed spending time in his garden, tending to the plants and flowers with care after being in the war for a year.

He was dressed in a button-down shirt with khaki pants along with a casual jacket or sweater. He was wearing comfortable loafers.

As they made their way out of the station, Kavya couldn't shake the feeling of Tom's presence lingering in the back of her mind. She knew their paths were diverging, but the memories of their time together were still fresh in her heart.

She then embraced her aunt and uncle hugging them both tightly, finding solace in their presence. "Thank you for having me for the summer. I don't know what I would do without you."

Anjali smiled gently; her eyes filled with compassion. "You're family, Kavya. We wouldn't have it any other way. We're here to support you, just like your parents would have wanted."

Rahul nodded, his voice carrying a sense of reassurance. "You're never alone, Kavya. We may not be magical like you, but we'll always be here for you."

Together, they made their way through the bustling platform, the sounds of laughter and goodbyes echoing in the air. Kavya's heart felt heavy with the weight of her recent loss, but she knew that she had to forge ahead, to find strength in the love and support that surrounded her.

As they reached the exit, Kavya stole a final glance over her shoulder, catching sight of Tom once more. Their eyes met fleetingly, a world of unspoken emotions passing between them. She wondered what lay in store for him, what path he would choose, and if their paths would ever cross again.

Tom took a deep breath and gathered his belongings. As he made his way through the bustling train, he found a secluded spot away from the crowd. The sound of the air siren didn't bother him at all.

Tom reached into his pocket, his slender hand clutching his wand and a faint hissing sound could be heard. The large snake, Nagini, slithered out and coiled around his arm. "Nagini," Tom whispered in parsletongue, "I'm going to be staying at Wool's Orphanage again. You must stay hidden there. It's essential that no one knows about you."

The snake's eyes seemed to gleam with understanding as she flicked her tongue. "I will stay hidden, Tom," she hissed back with affection. "But remember, I will find you, wherever you go."

Tom nodded, feeling a mix of fascination and unease at the connection he had with Nagini. He had discovered his ability to speak Parseltongue when he was much younger and had always felt a strange affinity with snakes. Nagini's presence gave him a sense of power and companionship that he couldn't find elsewhere.

Stepping off the train, Tom scanned the platform, looking for Mrs. Cole, the matron of Wool's Orphanage. Spotting her, he made his way towards her, his expression guarded.

"Tom Riddle," Mrs. Cole called out, her voice sharp. "Time to go, boy." She seemed stressed and tired. A sullen look was on her face as she stared at the boy, almost as if she was going to cry.

Tom nodded and approached her, keeping his gaze downcast. His hand gripping his wand in his pocket. He could have hexed her if he wanted to, but he didn't. "Yes, Mrs. Cole," he replied, his tone respectful but distant.

She sighed exasperated. All she knew was that Tom went to a boarding school. She didn't know it was a school to learn magic. "I was hoping five years of boarding school would have straightened you out by now."

Mrs. Cole eyed him with a scrutinizing look. "No funny business, boy. I won't tolerate any nonsense. Remember, this is your last chance. You don't want to end up on the streets, do you? You'd have no place to go like a lot of these children that I've taken into the orphanage because of the war."

The war had left many children either homeless or without parents. However, this war didn't interest Tom in the least. He already had a goal in mind and eventually he would make this war between muggles look pale in comparison with the grand feats he would accomplish one day.

Tom's lips tightened into a thin line, his eyes gleaming with determination. "No, Mrs. Cole. I understand."

With a curt nod, Mrs. Cole led the way towards the exit, guiding Tom through the bustling crowds of the train station. As they walked, a heaviness settled over Tom's shoulders, a reminder of the life he was returning to—a life of loneliness and uncertainty.

The conversation between Tom and Mrs. Cole was brief and terse, each word emphasizing the lack of connection between them. Tom kept his thoughts hidden, knowing that Mrs. Cole wouldn't understand or care about the turmoil brewing inside him. He was determined to rise above his circumstances, to prove that he was destined for something greater.

As they stepped out of the train station into the busy London streets, Tom couldn't help but steal one last glance at Kavya, who was now disappearing into the distance. The sight of her happy and surrounded by loved ones stirred a mix of envy and determination within him. He clenched his fists, silently vowing to forge his own path, no matter the cost.

With Mrs. Cole by his side, Tom walked on, heading towards Wool's Orphanage. The weight of his past and the burden of his future intertwined, as he contemplated the power he sought and the choices he would have to make along the way.

Little Hangleton the small, picturesque village located in the countryside. The village is surrounded by rolling hills and lush green fields, giving it a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The houses in Little Hangleton are traditional English cottages, with thatched roofs and white picket fences. A small-town square resides in the middle of the village with a few shops and a quaint little church that sits at the heart of the village.

The village is surrounded by dense forests and woodlands, giving it a secluded and somewhat eerie feel. The villagers are mostly Muggles, leading simple and quiet lives, unaware of the magical world that exists alongside theirs.

As Kavya's aunt, Anjali, and uncle, Rahul, pulled up to the house in their sleek red Chevrolet Fleetline, the gravel beneath the tires crunched softly, announcing their arrival. The car's smooth curves and shining chrome accents added an air of elegance to the otherwise simple neighborhood. The wind played with Anjali's cardigan, and Rahul adjusted his neatly tailored shirt as he stepped out of the car. The soft purring of the engine ceased as they turned off the ignition, and the car settled into silence. The streetlights cast a warm glow on the car's polished exterior, creating a beautiful contrast against the darkening evening sky.

Kavya stepped out of the car. She held Cinnamon in her arms looking up at the house she would be staying in.

The house had a quaint, thatched roof and colorful flowerbeds lined the path leading to the front door.

"Here we are, Kavya," her aunt Anjali said with a warm smile. "Welcome to our little home."

"It's lovely," Kavya replied, feeling a mix of gratitude and sadness. She was grateful that her aunt and uncle were willing to take her in after the loss of her parents, but the pain of their absence still weighed heavily on her heart.

As Kavya stepped into the cozy living room, she was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The walls were painted in soft pastel hues, giving the room a calming and cheerful ambiance. A large, plush sofa with colorful throw pillows sat in front of a quaint fireplace, creating a focal point in the room.

The mantelpiece above the fireplace was adorned with family photographs, capturing precious moments of joy and togetherness. The frames held pictures of Anjali and Rahul along with their other relatives who lived far away. They didn't have any children of their own. Kavya couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging even among these unfamiliar faces.

The living room was filled with comfortable furniture, including a couple of armchairs and a wooden coffee table where a stack of books lay invitingly. A soft, woven rug covered the wooden floor, adding to the warm and homely feel.

On one side of the living room, a wooden bookshelf stood tall, housing a collection of books, some well-worn with time and love. There were novels, classics, and volumes on gardening and cooking, reflecting the diverse interests of the family.

A small wooden side table with a vase of fresh flowers stood near the window, bringing a touch of nature indoors. The curtains were made of light, flowing fabric, allowing the sunlight to filter through gently during the day.

Adjacent to the living room was a cozy dining area, with a wooden table surrounded by comfortable chairs. A dainty chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the space during mealtimes. The dining table was set with neat placemats and an assortment of crockery, ready to welcome the family for their meals together.

As Kavya explored the house, she discovered a quaint kitchen with a rustic charm. The countertops were adorned with potted herbs and cooking utensils, and the aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air. Anjali, who loved cooking, had made the kitchen a warm and inviting place.

Upstairs, Kavya found her room, which had been lovingly prepared for her arrival. The walls were painted in a soothing lavender shade, and a cozy bed with floral patterned beddings occupied the center. A small writing desk with a vase of fresh flowers provided a perfect corner for her to read and write.

The house exuded a sense of comfort and love, with each room reflecting the personality and warmth of its inhabitants. It was a place where Kavya felt she could find solace and healing, surrounded by family who genuinely cared for her well-being.

She put Cinnamon down to explore his new surroundings. The small corgi was eagerly sniffing everything and anything he could find.

"Make yourself at home, dear," Anjali said, motioning towards a comfortable armchair in the living room. "Would you like some tea?"

As Anjali bustled in the kitchen, Kavya's eyes fell on a photo of her parents, her heart aching at the memory of them. She knew she had to be strong, and being with her family, even if they were distant relatives, gave her a glimmer of hope.

"Here you go," Anjali said, returning with a tray of tea and biscuits. "I hope you like it here, Kavya. We'll do our best to make you feel at home."

"Thank you," Kavya said, taking a sip of her tea. "I really appreciate it."

Anjali and Rahul exchanged a glance, understanding the pain Kavya was going through. They knew it would take time for her to adjust, but they were determined to be there for her.

Cinnamon jumped up on the armchair panting happily as well as he laid his head on Kavya's lap.

Kavya smiled patting her small furry companion. He was already comfortable here.

The three of them sat in the living room, looking out of the window as the sun set over Little Hangleton. Anjali broke the silence, "It's such a beautiful evening, isn't it?"

Rahul nodded, "Yes, it is. The town seems so peaceful, far from the troubles of the world outside."

Kavya replied softly, "I wish it could stay this way forever."

Anjali placed a comforting hand on Kavya's shoulder, "Change is a part of life, my dear. We must learn to adapt and face whatever comes our way."

Rahul was reading the Daily Prophet. Kavya was able to buy a copy of it before she left for the Hogwarts Express. Her uncle was always so fascinated with things going on in the wizarding world.

Rahul then held up the Daily Prophet, "Speaking of changes, the news about this Gellert Grindelwald's rise to power in the United States is concerning. It's like the world is on the brink of chaos."

"Those wizard police," Anjali looked at Kavya uncertain of what to call Aurors. "Aren't they called Aurors? Wouldn't they catch this vile man?"

Kavya wasn't sure what to say and then she realized why she hadn't seen much of Professor Dumbledore last year. Perhaps he was a part of this too.

There were two wars going on simultaneously. One between countries and the other of a mad man who wanted control over the wizarding world.

Kavya sighed, "I can't help but worry about what might happen to us." Her thoughts drifted to Tom. She wondered if he was alright. She knew he had no family to speak of.

Anjali tried to reassure her, "Let's hope it doesn't come to that. We have each other, and we'll face whatever challenges together."

Rahul nodded in agreement, "You're right. We must stay strong and support each other." He put down the magic newspaper and looked at the stack of letters sitting by his side. One letter caught his interest.

"Is something wrong Uncle Rahul?" Kavya asked.

"It's a letter from the Riddle household. They want me to return to work."

Kavya raised an eyebrow. Did Tom's family live here too? If that was the case, why didn't anyone try to locate him or perhaps they just simply didn't know he existed. She was taken aback by this revelation, "But you just got back from the war. Why do they want you to go back so soon?"

Rahul looked concerned, "It seems like there's some urgent matter that requires my attention. The letter says that Tom Riddle Sr. himself has required everyone to return to work because of the war."

For years there were vicious rumors spreading to the reasons why the richest man in the village had gone missing. Most assumed it was because he had run off with the tramp's daughter.

As Tom made his way to the orphanage with Mrs. Cole, he couldn't help but overhear snippets of conversation from passersby about the war raging on. The Blitz had hit London hard, and the city was still recovering from the devastating bombings. Tom felt a pang of unease, knowing that the orphanage might be affected as well. He was lucky to be at Hogwarts when the airstrike happened a few years ago and many more continued.

He felt a sense of detachment settling over him. Hogwarts had become a temporary escape, but now he was back to reality. Back to Wool's Orphanage, where he had no friends, no family, and no one who truly cared for him.

As they made their way out of the station and towards the orphanage, Tom couldn't help but notice the scars of war on the city. Buildings with shattered windows, walls marked by debris, and people with wearied faces spoke of the hardships the war had brought upon everyone.

Arriving at the orphanage, Tom's suspicions were confirmed. The building looked worse for wear, with parts of the roof damaged and boarded up. The usually strict and orderly entrance had an air of disarray.

Inside, the atmosphere was tense, and the children seemed more restless than usual. The caretakers were doing their best to maintain order, but the war had taken a toll on everyone, leaving little room for comfort and stability.

Tom's room, a small and sparsely furnished space, felt even more confining than before. As he looked out the window, he could see the cityscape of London, marred by the scars of war. The world beyond those walls seemed both vast and unattainable.

He put his trunk down not even bothering to unpack. The latest edition of the Daily Mirror spread before him. He wasn't interested in the usual news of the day; it was the coverage of the war that caught his attention.

The front page was dominated by images of destruction and chaos. Buildings reduced to rubble, streets filled with debris, and people fleeing for their lives. The war had escalated to a point where it seemed like there was no end in sight.

His eyes scanned the headlines, his mind absorbing the horrors of the conflict. He read about the air raids, the bombings, and the loss of innocent lives. He saw pictures of soldiers marching with determination, and he couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy at their sense of purpose.

The war had brought the entire world to its knees, and Tom couldn't help but feel a sense of fascination and fear. He was drawn to the power and destruction that the war unleashed, and he couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to have that kind of control over life and death.

But as he continued to read, he also saw the stories of courage and sacrifice. He read about ordinary people doing extraordinary things to protect their loved ones and their country. It was a side of humanity that he had never seen before, and it intrigued him.

The only person he knew who was just as kind and giving was Kavya. He shook his head in disarray. He shouldn't be thinking about her at a time like this. But he couldn't help it. She was the one good thing in his life. He wondered if he had gone a different route with his ambition would they still be together?

He remembered the conversation they had before Hogwarts had closed for the summer. He wondered if he didn't push her away would things be different. His eyes scanned the paper once more. He was relishing in the chaos that the world was in. He wasn't even aware of what was happening with Grindelwald.

Could he one day cause such great havoc to the world that cast him aside? He was the living heir to Salazar Slytherin, and he was in this dingy godforsaken orphanage. It angered him knowing he had no way out of this situation.
As he put the newspaper away, Tom felt a newfound sense of determination. He knew that the world had changed, and he had to change with it. The war had given him a taste of the power and control he desired, and he would stop at nothing to get more.

He then heard a commotion in the common area of the orphanage, and a knot formed in his stomach as he walked over to see what was happening. A group of caretakers was gathered around a young boy, no older than 18, who looked both scared and determined. It was Eric Whalley who was two years older than Tom. He had met them when he was 11.

"What's going on?" Tom asked one of the caretakers, his curiosity getting the better of him.

A caretaker named Martha turned to him with a grave expression. "This lad here has come of age. He's being drafted into the war."

By no means were Tom and Eric friends. In fact, he and another boy Billy used to bully Tom when he was younger. However, Tom had got back at them by hanging Billy's pet rabbit on the rafters of the orphanage. But this, even he wouldn't want this on anyone.

Eric had been at the orphanage for years, like him, and they had grown up together. Now, he was being forced to leave and fight in a war he had no control over.

Eric's face was pale, and his hands were shaking. "I don't want to go," he stammered. "I don't want to fight."

Martha patted him on the back sympathetically. "I know, lad, but you don't have a choice. It's the law."

Tom felt a surge of anger and helplessness. He had always felt a sense of detachment from the world around him, but seeing Eric being taken away like this made him realize how fragile their lives were. They were all just pawns in a much larger game, caught in the crossfire of a war they had no part in.

As Eric was escorted out of the orphanage, the other children watched in silence, knowing those of legal age could be next. The war had cast a long shadow over their lives, and they could do nothing but wait and hope that they would be spared from the same fate.

Tom couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered in the air long after Peter had left. He knew that their world was changing, and there was no going back. They were all at the mercy of the war, and there was no escaping its grasp.

As he turned away and went back to his room, Tom couldn't help but wonder if he would ever find a way out of this life, a way to escape the war and the darkness that seemed to be closing in around him. But for now, he was trapped, just like everyone else, amid a war that threatened to consume them all.

I really would love to turn this story into a war story or perhaps circumstances with both world war 2 and the the first looming threat of a wizarding war caused by Grindelwald would set the paths Tom and Kavya are going to follow.

Review.