Moonlit Bonds: The Tale of Moony and Snowy

Chapter 156 - Protections

The remainder of the summer passed under a cloud of tension but also a newfound resolve among the Marauders and Eliza. As the days dwindled down to the start of their final year at Hogwarts, the group focused on healing and preparation. Eliza's recovery was slow but steady, bolstered by the constant care and quiet support of her friends and the Potters. Despite her lingering weakness, Eliza's spirit remained unbroken, her determination to return to Hogwarts as strong as ever.

As the day to visit Diagon Alley arrived, Sirius and Remus organized a meticulous plan to ensure Eliza's safety and comfort throughout the trip. They were acutely aware of her fragility, yet respectful of her insistence on maintaining some independence.

The morning was bright and clear as they apparated to the Alley, the bustling sounds of the magical market a stark contrast to the tranquil atmosphere of the Potter house. Eliza leaned slightly on Remus for support, her steps tentative but determined. Sirius hovered nearby, his eyes scanning the crowd for any potential threats or undue stressors for Eliza.

"Really, I'm fine," Eliza murmured to Remus, offering him a small smile. "You don't need to hover quite so much."

Remus returned her smile with a gentle nod, though his protective instincts, heightened by his bond with Moony, remained on high alert. "Just being cautious," he replied softly. "Moony would never forgive me if I wasn't."

They made their way through the crowded streets, stopping first at Madam Malkin's for robes. As Eliza was fitted, Sirius and James discussed the upcoming term, their conversation a mix of strategy for their final year pranks and Quidditch tactics.

Next, they visited Flourish and Blotts, where Remus helped Eliza pick out several new books, ensuring she had everything she needed without straining herself. Peter, usually more reserved, stayed close by, occasionally offering to carry her books.

The visit to the Apothecary was quieter. Eliza insisted on selecting her own potion ingredients, her knowledge of potions giving her a focus that momentarily distracted her from her physical weakness. Remus watched her fondly, his heart swelling with pride at her resilience.

Lunch was a quiet affair at the Leaky Cauldron. They chose a secluded corner, where they could talk and laugh a little more freely. Eliza, bolstered by the familiar environment and the presence of her friends, seemed to regain some of her usual vibrancy, engaging in the banter with a lightness that had been missing since the summer.

As the afternoon waned, they made their last stop at Ollivanders. James needed a minor repair on his wand, and while they waited, Eliza leaned against Remus, her energy waning after the long day. Remus wrapped an arm around her shoulders, offering a silent strength that she gratefully accepted.

With their preparations complete, they apparated back to the Potter house. That evening, as they unpacked their supplies and shared a quiet dinner, the reality of their upcoming final year set in. It was a bittersweet realization, filled with both anticipation for the future and a wistful longing for the days that would soon be behind them.

Eliza, resting after the day's exertions, felt a profound gratitude for the unwavering support of her friends. Sirius, seeing her tired but happy, felt a protective warmth knowing they had managed to give her a day filled with normalcy and care.

As they retired for the night, the Marauders felt a renewed sense of unity. They were ready to face their final year together, strengthened by the trials they had overcome and the unbreakable bonds they had forged. No matter what the future held, they knew they would face it together, with courage, laughter, and an enduring friendship that no dark magic could diminish.