Moonlit Bonds: The Tale of Moony and Snowy

Chapter 160 - The Start of the Final Feast

As they entered the Great Hall for the welcoming feast, the enchanted ceiling flickered with the last rays of the setting sun, transforming gradually into a starlit sky. The tables were laden with sumptuous foods, and the chatter of students filled the air with a cacophony of laughter and greetings.

Dumbledore stood at the podium, his eyes twinkling as he welcomed the students back. His voice, warm and steady, carried over the crowd. "Another year full of promise and potential," he began, his gaze sweeping over the students. "This year, more than ever, we must cherish our community and stand together, for the challenges we face are not just those of academics and personal growth, but those that test the very bonds of our society."

The students listened, a hush falling over the hall as Dumbledore's words hinted at the rising threats beyond the castle walls-Voldemort's growing power. Eliza felt a chill run down her spine, her recent traumas making her all too aware of the darkness encroaching upon their world.

After the feast, as the students began to disperse to their respective dormitories, the Marauders and Eliza lingered in the hall. Sirius leaned close to Eliza, his voice low. "You sure you're up for this year? If you ever need to take a break-"

Eliza interrupted, her voice stronger than it had been on the train, fueled by the need to assert some normalcy into her life. "I need to be here, Sirius. I need to finish this, with all of you."

Remus nodded in agreement, his hand finding hers and giving it a reassuring squeeze. "We're all here for you, every step of the way."

As they made their way to the Gryffindor common room, Eliza felt the weight of exhaustion settling over her. Her steps faltered slightly, but Remus and Sirius were quick to support her, each taking one of her arms to help her along.

James, noticing her weariness, turned back to them. "Let's get her to bed. She needs rest."

Sirius's protectiveness flared, his eyes filled with concern. "I'll stay with her tonight. Make sure she's alright."

Eliza managed a small smile, appreciating their care. "I'll be fine, really. Just need to sleep."

Peter, trailing behind, piped up. "We'll make sure the dorm's quiet for you, Eliza."

The common room was bustling with activity as students caught up with friends and shared stories of their summer. The Marauders and Eliza navigated through the crowd, finally reaching the dormitory stairs. Remus and Sirius led Eliza to her bed, gently helping her lie down.

"Thanks, everyone," Eliza whispered, her voice barely audible over the noise outside the dormitory.

Remus sat at the edge of her bed, his eyes soft with concern. "Rest now. We'll be right here if you need anything."

Sirius, unable to hide his worry, added, "You're not alone, Eliza. We've got you."

Eliza nodded, her eyes closing as she finally let herself relax. The presence of her friends, their unwavering support, provided a small comfort amidst the turmoil of her thoughts.

As the night deepened, the common room quieted. James and Peter joined Remus and Sirius, the four of them sitting nearby, their voices hushed as they discussed the year ahead.

"We need to be extra careful," James said, his tone serious. "With everything happening outside these walls, we have to stick together more than ever."

Sirius nodded in agreement. "And we need to watch out for Eliza. She's strong, but she's been through hell."

Peter, his face earnest, added, "We'll make sure she's safe. All of us."

Remus glanced towards Eliza, her breathing steady as she slept. "We'll get through this, together."

The night wore on, the fire in the common room casting flickering shadows on the walls. The Marauders stayed vigilant, their friendship and loyalty a beacon of hope in the darkness. For Eliza, surrounded by the people who loved her most, the nightmares seemed a little less daunting, and the promise of a new day held a glimmer of possibility.