At first, it might be rocky. Tom would be suspicious of Harry's intentions. But as Harry shows him genuine care, Tom would start to open up. Eventually, they could become like family, with Tom looking up to Harry as a role model.
One challenge is staying true to the characters' personalities. Tom Riddle is already on a dark path as a young boy, so it's difficult to balance his malevolent tendencies with any potential for change or redemption in the fanfiction. For Harry, his natural instinct to oppose evil has to be reconciled with the idea of trying to help Tom.
One common theme is redemption. Many fanfictions explore the idea of Harry trying to save young Tom Riddle from his dark future. Another theme is power. Since both Harry and Tom are powerful wizards, there are often power struggles or comparisons between them.
One great 'Harry Potter Tom Riddle Fanfiction' is 'The Heir of Slytherin's Redemption'. It shows a different side of Tom Riddle, exploring what could have happened if he had been given a chance at a different path. It has a really interesting plot that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
One popular idea in such fanfiction could be that Harry, through some magical time - turning or alternate reality scenario, discovers Tom Riddle before he fully becomes Voldemort. Harry might see the good in Tom that was lost over time and tries to prevent his fall to the dark side. Their soulmate connection could be a powerful force that draws them together, even as their destinies seem so opposed.
One great 'Harry Potter' Tom Riddle slash fanfiction is 'The Heir of Slytherin's Heart'. It delves deep into the complex relationship between Harry and Tom Riddle. The author does an amazing job of exploring their characters in a new light, with a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
I'm not sure if it's popular. It's a rather niche and unusual concept, so it might not have a wide following. But in the world of fanfiction, there are always small groups of people interested in unique and out - of - the - ordinary ideas.
One popular type of fanfiction in this vein could be about Tom Riddle's interaction with magical creatures during his time at Hogwarts. Maybe he discovers a creature that has some connection to the dark arts and tries to use it for his own gain. For example, he might come across a basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets earlier than in the original story and attempt to control it to intimidate other students.
No, it's not common. Tom Riddle is a very complex and dark character. His main focus in the original story is on power, domination, and his own dark magic. Fanfiction is usually a creation of fans for fun and exploration, and it's hard to imagine the cold - hearted Tom Riddle having an affinity for it. However, in some very creative fanfictions, this could be a really different and thought - provoking take.
In a fanfiction centered around this, it could explore how Harry, as the Master of Death, has a deeper connection to the magical world's balance. Tom Riddle, on the other hand, might be obsessed with obtaining this power from Harry. The story could unfold as a battle of wills and magic, with Harry trying to protect the power while also saving those under Tom's influence.