Moonlit Bonds: The Tale of Moony and Snowy

Chapter 183 - N.E.W.T. Preparations

As January slipped into February, the pressure of the upcoming N.E.W.T. exams began to weigh heavily on the students of Hogwarts. The Marauders, known for their pranks and carefree attitude, found themselves spending more and more time in the library, buried under stacks of books and parchment.

Eliza, however, was visibly struggling more than her friends. The relentless nightmares that plagued her sleep left her exhausted, her eyes shadowed with fatigue. Despite the worry etched on her friends' faces, she insisted on keeping up with her studies, determined not to fall behind.

One afternoon, the Marauders gathered in a secluded corner of the library. The table was covered with books on advanced Transfiguration, Potions, and Defense Against the Dark Arts. Remus, always the diligent student, was meticulously highlighting key points in his notes, while James and Sirius whispered conspiratorially over an open book.

"Alright, listen up," Sirius said with a mischievous grin, glancing around to ensure Madam Pince wasn't within earshot. "I've enchanted a few of these books to sing their contents. It's a surefire way to remember all the boring details."

James chuckled, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Just make sure they don't start singing in the middle of the exam, Padfoot."

Eliza managed a tired smile, appreciating their efforts to lighten the mood. She flipped through her Potions textbook, trying to focus on the complex recipes and ingredient interactions. Her eyes kept drooping, and she blinked rapidly, willing herself to stay awake.

Remus noticed her struggle and leaned over, his voice gentle. "Eliza, you need to take a break. You can't keep pushing yourself like this."

Eliza shook her head, determined. "I have to keep going, Remus. I can't afford to fall behind. These exams are too important."

Sirius, overhearing their conversation, chimed in. "He's right, Eliza. You need to rest. We can't have you collapsing on us again."

Peter, who had been quietly reviewing his Charms notes, looked up with concern. "Maybe just a short nap? We can cover for you if Madam Pince comes by."

Eliza sighed, knowing they were right. Her body was crying out for rest, but the fear of failing her exams kept her pushing forward. "Okay, maybe just a short nap," she conceded, closing her book and resting her head on her arms.

As she drifted off to sleep, the others continued their studies, their eyes occasionally flicking towards her with worry. Remus reached out and gently smoothed her hair, his heart aching at the sight of her exhaustion.

James, trying to focus on his notes, couldn't help but glance at Eliza every few minutes. "We need to find a way to help her, Remus. She can't keep going like this."

Remus nodded, his expression grim. "I know, Prongs. But until we can find a way to stop the nightmares, all we can do is support her and make sure she gets through this."

Sirius, always quick with a plan, leaned in closer. "I've been thinking. Maybe we can find a way to enchant her bed or something to help her sleep better. There's got to be a charm for that."

Peter nodded eagerly. "Yeah, and we can take turns staying up with her. Make sure she feels safe."

They continued to brainstorm quietly, their determination to help Eliza fueling their discussions. When Eliza finally woke from her nap, she found her friends deep in conversation, their faces set with resolve.

"What are you all plotting now?" she asked with a sleepy smile.

James grinned, his eyes twinkling. "Just figuring out how to make sure you get some proper rest, that's all."

Eliza's heart warmed at their concern, and she felt a surge of gratitude for her friends. "Thank you," she said softly. "I don't know what I'd do without you all."

Sirius clapped a hand on her shoulder, his voice filled with affection. "You won't have to find out, Eliza. We're in this together."

As the days passed, the Marauders implemented their plan to help Eliza. They enchanted her bed with a soothing charm designed to ease her into a deeper, more restful sleep. They also took turns staying up with her, ensuring she felt safe and supported throughout the night.

Despite the exhaustion that still clung to her, Eliza felt a renewed sense of hope and determination. With her friends by her side, she knew she could face any challenge that came her way. As the N.E.W.T. exams loomed ever closer, the bond between them only grew stronger, their shared resolve a beacon of light in the darkness.

And so, with the library echoing with the faint strains of singing textbooks and the quiet hum of whispered encouragements, the Marauders and Eliza continued their preparations for the most important exams of their lives. Together, they faced the unknown with courage, friendship, and an unbreakable spirit.