"Shadows Within"

The Hogwarts Express chugged along the tracks, carrying its cargo of excited students back to school for another year. George Weasley sat in the compartment he shared with his brothers, Ron and Fred, as well as Harry Potter and Hermione Granger. The atmosphere was lively, with everyone chattering excitedly about their summer holidays. As the conversation flowed, George found himself growing increasingly disenchanted. Dumbledore's latest decree, limiting the use of magic outside of school, was being discussed, and George was clearly frustrated. "It's always about control with him," George muttered, shaking his head. "He doesn't trust us to make our own decisions." Ron, ever the loyal friend, jumped to the defense of the Headmaster. "Come on, George, he's just trying to keep us safe," Ron said, his brow furrowed in concern. But George was having none of it. "Safe? You call being treated like children safe? I'm seventeen, Ron, not seven. I can take care of myself." He crossed his arms, his eyes flashing with annoyance. Harry, who had been quietly observing the exchange, spoke up. "I agree with George. Dumbledore's always been a bit... distant. I mean, have you ever really talked to him? He's always so... enigmatic." Hermione rolled her eyes. "You're not exactly known for your tact, Harry. And besides, Dumbledore's trying to protect us from the Dark Arts. We can't just ignore the danger that's out there." Ginny, who had been quietly reading in the corner, looked up. "I think we should focus on our own strengths, rather than relying on the Headmaster to save us. We've all got our own unique skills and abilities." But George's attention was already drifting back to Harry. There was something about the way Harry spoke, a quiet confidence that resonated with George. He found himself leaning in, his eyes locking onto Harry's. "Exactly. We can't just rely on others to save us. We've got to take control of our own lives." As the conversation continued, Fred began to notice that George seemed... different. He was more withdrawn than usual, and his eyes kept drifting back to Harry. Fred exchanged a curious glance with Ron, but Ron just shrugged. Molly, their mother, had always warned them about the dangers of getting too close to others, especially with the Dark Lord's followers lurking in the shadows. But as George and Harry continued to talk, their words overlapping as they discussed everything from Quidditch to their favorite books, Fred couldn't shake the feeling that something was brewing. As the train pulled into Hogsmeade station, the group gathered their belongings and prepared to disembark. George and Harry lingered behind, lost in conversation. Fred watched them, a growing sense of unease settling in the pit of his stomach. "Ron, I think we should keep an eye on George," Fred said, his voice low. "He seems... off." Ron raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?" Fred nodded towards George and Harry, who were still deep in conversation. "I don't know, but I think George might be... drawn to Harry. In a way that's not just friendship." Ron's eyes widened as he followed Fred's gaze. "Blimey, Fred. You think?" But it was too late. George and Harry had already slipped out of the compartment, their faces alight with a newfound connection. As they made their way through the crowded station, Fred couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. What was happening to George? And what did it mean for their little group of friends? The station was bustling with students and parents, the sound of laughter and chatter filling the air. But Fred's attention was focused on the two figures disappearing into the crowd, their bond growing stronger with every step.