Moonlit Bonds: The Tale of Moony and Snowy

Chapter 40 - Gryffindor Quidditch Tryouts

November brought the highly anticipated Gryffindor Quidditch tryouts, and the excitement in the air was palpable. The Marauders, along with Eliza and Remus, made their way to the Quidditch pitch, the crisp autumn air filling their lungs and invigorating their spirits.

"Today's the day, lads!" James exclaimed, his broom slung over his shoulder. His eyes sparkled with determination. "We're going to show them what we're made of."

Sirius smirked, twirling his Beater's bat in his hand. "Just watch, Prongs. I'll be the best Beater this school's ever seen."

Eliza, walking beside them, couldn't help but feel a flutter of nerves. "Be careful out there, Sirius. Beater's a dangerous position. You could get seriously hurt."

Sirius gave her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Eliza. I've got reflexes like a cat. Nothing's going to touch me."

James patted Sirius on the back. "He's right. Besides, we've got each other's backs out there. Nothing can go wrong."

Remus, who had been listening quietly, gave Eliza a gentle squeeze on the shoulder. "They'll be alright, Eliza. Sirius is one of the best flyers I know, and James... well, he's practically made for this."

Eliza gave a small, grateful smile. "Thanks, Remus. It's just... I worry."

"We all do," Remus replied softly. "But they've got this."

The tryouts were a flurry of activity as hopefuls from all years gathered, each eager to prove themselves worthy of a spot on the team. The Gryffindor captain, a burly seventh-year named Arthur, called everyone to attention.

"Alright, listen up!" Arthur bellowed. "We're looking for skill, speed, and teamwork. Show us what you've got!"

James was the first to step up, his confidence evident as he mounted his broom and soared into the sky. He weaved through the air with precision, catching and passing the Quaffle with ease. His natural talent and charisma were undeniable, and he quickly became the center of attention.

Eliza watched from the sidelines, her heart swelling with pride. "You're going to be brilliant," she called out to James, her voice filled with awe.

James grinned down at her. "Thanks, Eliza. We'll make Gryffindor proud."

Next up was Sirius, who took his position as Beater. He demonstrated his quick reflexes and fearless demeanor, swatting Bludgers with astounding accuracy. He dodged and deflected with such ease that it was clear he was born for this role.

Eliza's nerves spiked every time a Bludger came near Sirius, but he seemed almost toying with them, his movements fluid and controlled. "Be careful," she muttered under her breath, clutching her hands together.

Remus noticed her tension and leaned in closer. "He's really something, isn't he? Sirius has always had a knack for making the difficult look easy."

Eliza nodded, her worry easing slightly with Remus's calm presence. "Yeah, he really does."

The tryouts continued, with other students vying for positions, but it was clear that James and Sirius were in a league of their own. Arthur called for a final round, pitting the top candidates against each other in a mock game.

James led his team with charisma and strategy, scoring goal after goal. Sirius, meanwhile, protected his teammates with fierce determination, sending Bludgers hurtling away with powerful swings of his bat.

When the whistle finally blew, Arthur gathered everyone together. "Alright, we've seen some great talent today. But the ones who really stood out were James Potter for Chaser and Sirius Black for Beater. Congratulations, you two."

The crowd erupted in applause, and James and Sirius grinned at each other, their eyes alight with triumph. Eliza rushed over, her excitement bubbling over. "You both were amazing!"

James beamed, his chest puffed out with pride. "Thanks, Eliza. I couldn't have done it without your support."

Sirius ruffled her hair playfully. "See? I told you I'd be fine."

Eliza laughed, her earlier worries dissipating in the glow of their success. "You both were incredible. Gryffindor's got the best team this year."

Remus stepped forward, his smile warm and proud. "You guys really knocked it out of the park. Can't wait to see you in action during the matches."

James and Sirius chatted animatedly about strategies and plays, their enthusiasm infectious. Eliza walked beside them, feeling a sense of contentment and pride in her friends' achievements. The Marauders had always been a tight-knit group, and this new chapter in their lives only strengthened their bond.

The rest of November flew by in a whirlwind of practices and preparations. James and Sirius dedicated themselves to their new roles on the Quidditch team, balancing their rigorous training with their schoolwork and their secret Animagus project. Eliza, Peter, and Remus supported them every step of the way, helping with homework and cheering them on during practices.

Despite the challenges they faced, the Marauders remained united, their friendship and determination driving them forward. And as they looked ahead to the upcoming Quidditch matches, they knew that this year was going to be one for the history books.