Moonlit Bonds: The Tale of Moony and Snowy

Chapter 159 - The Journey Begins

Peter listened intently, his expression turning from excitement to concern as he absorbed the gravity of Eliza's summer experiences. "I had no idea it was that bad, Eliza. I'm so sorry," he said, his voice thick with emotion. He reached across the small table, placing his hand over hers in a gesture of solidarity.

Eliza managed a weak smile, appreciating Peter's sincerity. "Thanks, Pete. It means a lot to have you all here," she murmured, her voice gaining a little strength as she felt the support of her friends envelop her.

James, trying to lighten the mood, clapped his hands together with a grin. "Right, then! This year, no holding back on the pranks, especially since it's our last year. We've got to leave our mark, make it legendary!"

Sirius laughed, his mood lightening at James's words. "I've been working on a few ideas over the summer. How about enchanting the Slytherin banners to show Gryffindor colors during the Quidditch matches? Can you imagine Snape's face?"

The group chuckled, the tension easing slightly as they envisioned their mischievous plans coming to fruition. Remus, always the more cautious one, added, "Just remember, we need to keep out of trouble as much as possible. Let's not give the professors any more reasons to doubt our capabilities, especially with N.E.W.T.s coming up."

As the train continued its journey, the landscape outside blending into a blur of greens and browns, the topic shifted to their upcoming final exams and the preparation required. Eliza listened, her mind drifting occasionally to the challenges ahead but comforted by the fact that she wouldn't be facing them alone.

Sirius, noticing her distant gaze, nudged her gently. "Hey, you're not alone in this, remember? We're all in it together. Whatever you need, we're here for you."

Eliza nodded, feeling a resurgence of strength from his words. "I know, Sirius. Thank you," she said, her voice steadier now.

As Hogwarts Castle came into view, its towers silhouetted against the setting sun, a sense of homecoming filled the compartment. Despite the hurdles of the past and those that lay ahead, the sight of the familiar, imposing structure offered a reminder of the countless memories they had created within its walls-memories that would last a lifetime.

The train slowed, the screech of metal on metal heralding their arrival. They gathered their belongings, their faces set with determination and a touch of nostalgia. Stepping off the train, they joined the throng of students making their way to the carriages that would take them up to the castle.

"Seventh year, huh?" James said, slinging an arm around Sirius and Peter's shoulders. "Let's make it one for the history books."

With a collective nod, they moved forward, their spirits bolstered by their friendship, ready to embrace whatever their final year at Hogwarts had in store.