The Dark Lord is Dead

The Gaunts were liars. Tom Riddle wasn't the Heir of Slytherin; he was just an overzealous boy who could talk to snakes. When he entered the Chamber of Secrets, he was killed by a monster that knew how to sniff out an imposter. And, of course, everyone knows what happens to wizards who fear death just a little too much. (AU Marauder Era—Tom is a ghost. Must. Pairings.)