Moonlit Bonds: The Tale of Moony and Snowy

Chapter 13 - Return to Hogwarts. Year 2

Sirius leaned back against the worn seat, his eyes fixed on the lush green fields rushing past outside the train window. The rhythmic clatter of the Hogwarts Express seemed to echo the steady beat of relief in his chest.

"It's good to be back," Sirius remarked, his voice tinged with optimism. "Away from all the gloom of Grimmauld Place."

Eliza nodded fervently, her fingers absently tracing patterns on her lap. "Absolutely. Hogwarts feels like home, doesn't it?"

Sirius turned to her with a lopsided grin, his gray eyes sparkling with mischief. "You bet. And this year, we're going to make it even better. New pranks, more adventures—"

Eliza interrupted with a soft chuckle, her anxiety momentarily easing under her brother's infectious enthusiasm. "And maybe less trouble with Filch, hopefully?"

Sirius laughed, a hearty sound that filled the compartment with warmth. "Can't promise that, Liz. But we'll certainly give him a run for his galleons."

As the train continued its journey, they delved into plans for the upcoming school year. James' latest idea for a prank involving enchanted dungbombs had them both in stitches. Remus and Peter's contributions were met with nods of approval and suggestions for improvement.

"We've got to top last year's Halloween prank," Sirius declared, rubbing his hands together eagerly. "Those floating pumpkins were brilliant, but I think we can do even better."

Eliza nodded in agreement, her smile widening as the familiar anticipation of mischief settled comfortably in her chest. "Absolutely. Let's make this year unforgettable, Sirius."

With each mile that brought them closer to Hogwarts, the weight of their summer hardships began to lift. The promise of camaraderie and the thrill of new adventures filled their thoughts, overshadowing the shadows of Grimmauld Place they had left behind.