Doubts and Darkness

Ginny awoke to the soft light of dawn filtering through the curtains. She rubbed her eyes and yawned, stretching her small frame before slipping out of bed. Today was the last day of their holiday in Romania, and she wanted to make the most of it. She tiptoed out of her room, careful not to wake Abigail who was sleeping in the other bed or her brothers in the adjoining room.

The villa was eerily quiet as she made her way to the living room. Her bare feet padded softly on the cool floor. As she entered the living room, she paused. There, on the couch, was Harry, fast asleep. He looked peaceful, his messy black hair falling over his forehead, glasses askew on his nose.

Ginny felt a pang of curiosity. What was he doing here? She crept closer, careful not to make a sound. Harry's face was serene, but there were faint shadows under his eyes, as if he hadn't slept well. Ginny wondered if he had been up late studying again. She knew Harry was different from other boys their age; he always seemed to be carrying a weight that she couldn't quite understand.

As she watched him sleep, Ginny's thoughts drifted back to their day at the beach amusement park. From the Ferris wheel, she had seen Harry hugging Daphne. She had misunderstood the situation, thinking Harry had feelings for Daphne. The scene she had witnessed from high above was something she wouldn't forget easily. Relief had washed over her later when Harry clarified to everyone that Daphne was just a friend and nothing more.

Two days had passed since their visit to the amusement park, but Ginny's mind was still buzzing with questions. She had overheard snippets of a conversation between Petunia and her mom, hinting that Harry had done something significant for Daphne's family. However, she hadn't caught the full story and was left wondering what exactly had transpired.

Not being able to determine the puzzle, she sighed and tiptoed outside. Ginny tiptoed out to the garden in front of the villa. She liked seeing the flowers in the early morning dew. It was a peaceful moment for her, but she didn't expect to see Percy there. Percy was standing in the middle of the garden, looking at the flowers. Ginny walked towards him and noticed that he had a pained expression on his face.

"Percy?" she called out softly.

Percy looked up from the flowers towards her. "Hey, Nini," he said, trying to smile. Ginny smiled back and hugged him good morning.

"What's up? Why are you up so early and out in the garden?" she asked, looking up at him with concern.

Percy hesitated for a moment before answering. "Just... thinking, I suppose," he said, his voice tinged with emotion. "I guess I needed some quiet time."

Ginny looked at him with concern. "What's bothering you, Percy?" she asked softly.

Percy sighed deeply as his gaze turned towards the sky. "I've been thinking about everything that's happened lately. Fred and George making loads of money and taking the family out on vacation, while I haven't been able to do anything for the family yet."

Ginny's eyes widened with surprise. She had never heard Percy talk like this before.

"I remember how overjoyed I was when the twins were born," Percy continued. "Even if I didn't always show it, I love everyone dearly. I've studied like my life depended on it so that I could get a good job and help the family, but so far, I haven't done anything."

"Percy, that's not true," Ginny interjected, but Percy shook his head.

"When the twins kept doing pranks and mischief, I secretly loved it. The house was full of laughter and cheer. But I always hoped they'd be serious about their studies too. I scolded them often, told them to be more serious. And now, it's their pranks and jokes that have gotten the family in a better condition, while I, being the elder brother, haven't been able to contribute much."

Ginny sympathised with Percy. She knew how hard he worked. She reached out and took Percy's hand. "Percy, you work so hard. We all know that. You're going to do great things for this family, I just know it."

Percy looked down at her, his eyes softening. "Thanks, Nini. I guess I just feel... inadequate sometimes. I want to make sure you all have everything you need."

"I'm really happy for the twins, you know. That they've started making money and are able to provide for the family. But somewhere deep inside, I hoped it would be me who provided. I feel like it's my duty as the eldest sibling to take care of everyone."

Ginny squeezed his hand reassuringly. "Percy, you're doing everything you can."

Percy shook his head. "But I'm not good at anything but studies. How can I provide for the family like the twins do? I mean, their jokes and inventions are making a difference. I'm just... stuck in books."

Ginny frowned, trying to find the right words. "Percy, your hard work and dedication are important. Just because it doesn't show right now doesn't mean it won't. You're setting an example for all of us. And one day, all your effort will pay off."

Percy gave a half-hearted smile. "I hope you're right, Nini. I just want to make Mum and Dad proud and know that I've done my part."

"You already make us proud," Ginny said earnestly. "And I know you'll find your way to contribute. Just keep being you, Percy."

Percy ruffled Ginny's hair gently. "I hope you're right, Nini."

With that, Percy headed back inside, leaving Ginny standing in the garden. She watched him go, then turned her attention to the flowers, their petals glistening with early morning dew. She took a deep breath, letting the tranquility of the moment wash over her.

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In their room, Petunia and Vernon lay awake in bed, quietly talking. The early morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. Vernon turned to Petunia, his expression serious.

"That Greengrass incident still bothers me," Petunia said softly, her voice tinged with concern. "Harry broke their blood curse. How did he even know how to do that?"

Vernon sighed, running a hand through his hair. "He's always been powerful, Petunia. But lately, it's like his magic has grown even stronger."

Petunia's brow furrowed. "And then there was the dragon reserve. He almost killed that dragon to protect us. I saw his face that day, Vernon. It wasn't the sweet boy we raised. It was the face of a stone-cold killer, willing to destroy anything in his path."

Vernon reached out and took her hand, squeezing it reassuringly. "Harry's only eleven, Petunia. He hasn't seen or done anything that should make him this way. It's confusing. But we have to hope for the best."

Petunia's eyes filled with worry. "Why is he this strong? It doesn't make sense. I just... I worry that he's going down a dark path. That the things he's capable of will change him in ways we can't understand. Can we save him, Vernon? Can we keep him from becoming something he's not?"

"We'll do everything we can," Vernon said firmly. "We'll be there for him, guide him, and make sure he knows he's not alone. Harry's strong, but he's also compassionate. We have to believe in him."

"But that day," Petunia continued, her voice trembling slightly. "I saw a side of Harry I didn't recognize. It scared me. He's only eleven, yet he seemed so much older, so much more... dangerous."

Vernon nodded, his expression grim. "I know. But we have to trust that our love and guidance will keep him on the right path. We'll talk to him, help him understand his power, and make sure he knows he doesn't have to face this alone."

Petunia sighed, resting her head on Vernon's shoulder. "I hope you're right. I just want our boy to be safe and happy."

"He will be," Vernon assured her. "We won't let anything happen to him."

Petunia nods and looks at the ceiling for while. She then sits up saying that she needs to go for a walk and heads out of the room. As she heads downstairs she saw Harry sleeping on the couch in an awkward position.

Her heart swelled with love as she watched Harry sleeping peacefully on the couch, his tousled hair falling over his forehead. Despite their worries, seeing him like this filled her with warmth and affection. It was hard to reconcile the image of her sweet, innocent boy with the fears that plagued her mind.

"He looks so peaceful," she whispered to herself, a soft smile playing on her lips.

Approaching him slowly, careful not to disturb his slumber, she gently brushed a lock of hair away from his face. "You always manage to find your way into the most uncomfortable positions, don't you?" she teased, her voice filled with affection.

Harry stirred slightly, a contented smile forming on his lips as he felt her touch.

Petunia couldn't help but smile even more at the sight, her worries momentarily forgotten. Leaning down, she pressed a soft kiss to his forehead.

With practiced ease, she carefully levitated him off the couch and guided him up the stairs to his bedroom. Ron was fast asleep in the other bed, snoring softly.

"Always tiring yourself out, aren't you?" she chuckled softly, tucking Harry in and adjusting the covers around him.

As she lingered by his bedside, gazing at his peaceful face, she couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. "Oh, Harry," she whispered, brushing a gentle hand over his cheek. "I couldn't save my sister but I wish I could protect you from everything."

With a heavy sigh, she reluctantly tore her gaze away and quietly left the room, her footsteps light as she made her way outside to the garden. As Petunia stepped into the early morning air of the garden, her thoughts drifted back to her sister, Lily. She couldn't shake the feeling of regret that gnawed at her heart, the bitter sting of knowing she hadn't been able to protect her when it mattered most.

"I couldn't save you, Lily," she murmured softly, her voice barely a whisper in the stillness of the morning. "I couldn't protect you and James. But I'll do everything in my power to keep Harry safe."

Her eyes glistened with unshed tears as she looked up at the sky, a silent prayer on her lips. "I promised myself I wouldn't fail again. Not with Harry."

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Harry awoke in his bed, disoriented and confused. He remembered falling asleep on the couch in the living room while studying the blood curse. The last thing he recalled was his exhaustion and the heavy weight of the book on his lap which he had stowed in his subspace pouch before falling asleep. Now, he was comfortably tucked in bed. He suspected Petunia might have moved him, as he had felt a faint sensation of a soft kiss on his forehead before drifting off completely.

He looked around the room and saw that Ron's bed was empty, indicating his friend had already gone downstairs. Harry got up, stretched, and headed into the bathroom for a quick shower. The warm water helped wash away the lingering drowsiness, and he emerged feeling refreshed. He changed into clean clothes, then paused in front of the mirror.

"Not quite right," he muttered, looking at his plain clothes. With a flick of his wand, he transfigured them into a simple yet stylish outfit: a crisp white T-shirt that fit him perfectly, paired with black jeans that hugged his frame comfortably. He added high-top sneakers, their black and white design adding a touch of cool to the ensemble. Satisfied with his appearance, he headed downstairs.

The villa was still quiet, the morning light filtering softly through the windows. Harry felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. It was their last day in Romania, and he had a surprise planned for everyone—a secret shopping trip he had arranged, hoping it would be a memorable end to their holiday.

As he descended the stairs, the familiar aroma of breakfast greeted him. He entered the kitchen to find Petunia bustling around the kitchen. She looked up and smiled warmly at him.

"Good morning, Harry dear. Did you sleep well?" she asked, her eyes twinkling.

"Morning, mum. I did, thanks," Harry replied, returning her smile. "Is everyone else up?"

"Most of them are already outside, enjoying the morning. Have some breakfast before you join them," she suggested, gesturing to the where there was a plate left for him. Everyone seemed to have already had their breakfast.

Harry nodded and helped himself to a plate of eggs, bacon, and toast. As he ate, his thoughts drifted back to the blood curse he had been studying. He had discovered something intriguing late last night. The curse, it seemed, a very complex piece of magic well by standard means at least, whoever casted it was not an ordinary wizard at all.

Finishing his breakfast, Harry thanked Petunia and stepped outside. The garden was bathed in the soft glow of morning, the flowers glistening with dew. He spotted Ginny and Percy talking near the flowerbeds, and further away, he saw Ron and the twins laughing and playing a game of wizard's chess. Mr. Weasley, Vernon and Sirius were talking near the gate or maybe looking at the streets, he couldn't tell.

Harry approached Ginny and Percy, their conversation pausing as they noticed him. "Morning," he greeted, giving them a nod.

"Morning, Harry," Ginny replied with a smile. Percy nodded in acknowledgment, his expression thoughtful.

"How's everyone doing?" Harry asked, glancing around at the peaceful scene.

"Enjoying the last day here," Ginny said. "What about you? You looked exhausted last night."

"I was up late studying," Harry admitted.

Ginny's eyes lit up with curiosity. "What were you studying?"

Harry grinned, keeping the details to himself. "Just a complex piece of magic."

Ginny and Percy exchanged intrigued looks but didn't press further. Harry walked over to join Ron and the twins, feeling a sense of anticipation for the day ahead. He hoped the surprise shopping trip would be a perfect way to wrap up their holiday in Romania and leave them with wonderful memories to carry home for Christmas.

Harry moved closer to the twins and Ron, who were deeply engrossed in a game of wizard's chess. The clinking of the enchanted pieces and the intense concentration on their faces made for an intriguing sight. He observed the board and saw that the twins were almost winning, which was quite a shocker to him. Maybe chess was a Weasley thing after all.

Fred and George were sitting side by side, their heads bent over the board. George moved his knight, taking one of Ron's bishops with a triumphant grin. Ron, his brow furrowed in concentration, studied the board carefully before making his next move.

"Checkmate in two moves, Ron," Fred said confidently, leaning back in his chair.

Ron shot him a defiant look. "Not if I can help it."

Harry watched the game with interest. The twins' strategy was unorthodox but effective. They worked in sync, predicting each other's moves and countering Ron's tactics with surprising precision.

As Harry settled into a chair next to them, Fred glanced up and greeted him. "Morning, Harry. Come to witness our genius?"

"Morning, Fred. George," Harry replied, nodding at them. "I have to say, I'm impressed. Didn't know you two were such chess masters."

"Ah, it's a hidden talent," George said with a wink. "We don't always show off, but when we do, we aim to surprise."

Ron moved his queen to take one of George's rooks, but it was a risky move that left his king vulnerable. George quickly capitalized on the opportunity, moving his bishop to corner Ron's king.

"Check," George declared with a smug grin.

Ron sighed, realizing he had few options left. He made one last attempt to defend his king, but it was clear the twins had outmaneuvered him. Fred moved his knight, completing the checkmate.

"And that's game," Fred said, clapping Ron on the back. "Good effort, little brother."

Ron groaned but couldn't help but smile. "Yeah, yeah. You got me this time."

Harry chuckled, enjoying the moment. "You guys are something else. I am no good at chess."

"It's all about strategy," Fred said, setting up the pieces for another game. "And a bit of sibling rivalry."

"Want to join the next round, Harry?" George offered.

Harry shook his head with a grin. "I'll pass this time. I'd rather not take a Weasley for a chess match."

Fred and George smirked. "Alright, but you owe us a game later," Fred said with a playful wink.

Harry nodded, watching as Fred and George started another match. He then got up and headed toward Vernon, Sirius, and Mr. Weasley, who were standing near the gate. As he neared them, he overheard their conversation.

"Romania's really something," Vernon was saying, his eyes scanning the street. "Quite different from back home."

Mr. Weasley nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, it's fascinating! So much magical history here. Did you see that old wizard selling enchanted trinkets on the corner yesterday? Absolutely marvelous."

Sirius chuckled, shaking his head. "I think Vernon was more interested in the muggle side of things, Arthur."

Vernon grunted in agreement. "Not that I don't appreciate magic, but it's the people and the culture that really catch my eye. Everyone seems so... vibrant. I have not gotten the chance to visit Muggle London back home much because of work."

Harry smiled as he approached. "Morning, everyone."

Sirius turned and greeted Harry with a grin. "Morning, Harry. Sleep well?"

"Yeah, I did. Thanks," Harry replied. "What are you all up to?"

"Just chatting about the local sights," Mr. Weasley said. "What about you, Harry? Any plans for today?"

Harry shrugged nonchalantly. "I was thinking of just lazing around in the living room. No big plans."

Sirius and Mr. Weasley chuckled. "That sounds like a solid plan," Sirius said. "A bit of relaxation before heading back home."

"Exactly," Harry replied, trying to keep his excitement in check.

As the conversation continued, Harry excused himself and headed back inside. He glanced at the clock on the wall and saw that it would be just minutes before the cars arrived. He didn't want to be there when they did; otherwise, it wouldn't take much for everyone to guess that he had planned something.

Slipping through the villa quietly, Harry made his way back to his room to grab his jacket. He took a moment to admire the peaceful scene outside his window, the early morning sunlight casting a warm glow over the garden. Everything was coming together perfectly.

Just then, he heard the faint sound of car engines approaching. Harry quickly slipped out of his room and made his way to a quiet corner near the staircase, where he could observe without being seen.

The first car pulled up to the gate, followed by several others. The drivers got out and began organizing for the day's outing. Harry watched with satisfaction as Vernon, Sirius, and Mr. Weasley exchanged curious glances, clearly wondering what was going on.

Ginny, Percy, and the rest of the Weasley kids soon joined them outside, their faces lighting up with excitement as they saw the cars.

"What's all this?" Ron exclaimed, his eyes wide.

Harry emerged from the villa, feigning surprise along with the rest. "What's happening?" he asked, making sure to sound as curious as everyone else.

One of the drivers stepped forward and addressed the group. "Good morning! We have been arranged to take you all on an all-expenses-paid shopping trip to conclude your vacation in Romania. It's a special treat to make your last day here memorable."

Everyone exchanged astonished looks, murmurs of excitement rippling through the group.

"Blimey, Gringotts travel agency is the best!" Fred exclaimed.

George nodded, looking around at everyone. Now that Harry looked around, he couldn't see Abigail. He turned to Petunia, who had just come out from the villa.

"Mum, where's Abigail?" Harry asked.

Petunia smiled gently. "She's still sleeping in her room."

Harry nodded. "I'll go wake her up," he said, heading back inside.

He walked briskly through the villa, making his way to the room Abigail and Ginny were sharing. Opening the door quietly, he peeked inside. Abigail was still asleep in her bed, her face twisted in distress. Harry frowned, moving closer to her. She was sweating and looked scared. Was she having a nightmare?

Harry quickly moved closer and gently held her hand. "Abby," he called softly, shaking her slightly. "Wake up."

She didn't respond, her face contorting further in fear. Harry shook her a bit harder. "Abby, it's just a dream. Wake up."

Her murmurs grew louder, her voice trembling. "No... not Mum... no... Harry!... Harry!... come back!..."

Harry's heart clenched. He shook her more urgently, his voice firm but gentle. "Abby, it's me, Harry. Wake up. You're safe."

Her eyes fluttered open, wide and filled with tears. She looked around, disoriented, before focusing on Harry's face. "Harry?" she whispered, her voice shaky.

"Yes, it's me. You're safe," Harry said soothingly.

Without warning, Abigail threw herself into Harry's arms, hugging him tightly and sobbing into his shoulder. "Harry, it was so scary," she cried, her small frame shaking with fear.

Harry held her close, rubbing her back gently. "It's okay, Abby. It was just a nightmare. You're safe now."

Abigail's sobs continued as she clung to Harry. "There were these men... dressed in all black... they forced their way into our home and... and they killed Mum! I tried to stop them, but I couldn't. You arrived too late to save her. And then... then they ran away, and you chased after them."

Harry's heart ached for her. "Abby, listen to me," he said softly, pulling back to look into her tear-streaked face. "I promise, I won't let anything happen to Mum, or to you. No one will hurt us. I'm here, and I'll always protect you."

Abigail looked up at him with wide, scared eyes. "But what if they come back?"

Harry cupped her face gently, wiping away her tears with his thumbs. "They won't. And even if they try, I'll be there to stop them. You're safe with me, Abby."

She nodded slowly, her sobs subsiding as she took comfort in Harry's words. "Okay," she whispered, her voice still trembling. "I believe you."

Harry lifted Abigail up and carried her downstairs. She clung to him, her small arms wrapped tightly around his neck. Once they reached the living room, Harry called out, "Mum?"

Petunia turned, her face filled with concern as she saw Abigail in Harry's arms. "What's wrong?"

"Abby had a nightmare," Harry explained, gently setting her down on the couch.

Petunia immediately went into full mother mode, pulling Abigail into her lap and hugging her tightly. She rocked her gently, whispering soothing words. "It's okay, sweetheart. It was just a dream. You're safe now."

Abigail buried her face in Petunia's shoulder, her little body still trembling slightly. "Mum, it was so scary."

"I know, darling," Petunia murmured, stroking her hair. "But it was just a dream. Nothing will hurt you here."

Harry watched them for a moment, feeling a mix of emotions. He was relieved that Abigail was being comforted, but the details of her nightmare troubled him deeply. He quietly slipped outside, needing a moment to think.

Everyone else had come inside to change into different clothes for the shopping trip. He paced back and forth in the garden, replaying Abigail's words in his mind. Men dressed in black, forcing their way into the house, attacking Petunia... it all sounded too familiar.

"Death Eaters," Harry muttered to himself. The men she described could very well be Death Eaters, wizards who served Voldemort. But how could Abigail know about them? She was just a child, with no exposure to the dark parts of the wizarding world.

He took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing thoughts. Could Abigail be a seer? It was a rare gift, but not impossible. Her dream might be a warning, a glimpse of a possible future.

A shadow crossed his mind. "Should I kill them all just to be safe?" he wondered. The idea of preemptively eliminating any threat to his family started to take root. Harry clenched his fists, feeling a surge of protectiveness mixed with anger.

"They won't hurt my family," he muttered, his thoughts growing more intense. "If they come near us, I'll make sure they never have the chance to harm anyone. I'll do whatever it takes."

Harry's mind conjured up images of him standing over fallen Death Eaters, his wand raised, a fierce determination in his eyes. He imagined himself defending his loved ones, striking down anyone who dared to threaten them.

"Could I do it?" he asked himself. "Could I kill to protect them?" The thought chilled him, but he knew that he would do anything to keep his family safe. The idea of crossing that line scared him, but the fear of losing his family was even greater. He couldn't go through that pain again. Not in this life.