Moonlit Bonds: The Tale of Moony and Snowy

Chapter 191 - Navigating N.E.W.T. Classes

The winter chill of January had settled into the stone walls of Hogwarts, but inside the classrooms, the atmosphere was anything but cold. The seventh-year students were deep into their N.E.W.T. preparations, each day a whirlwind of challenging coursework and intense study sessions. For Eliza and Remus, the schedule was even more demanding as they shared the exact same classes, providing them with the opportunity to support each other at every turn.

In Potions class, Professor Slughorn had set a particularly difficult assignment: brewing Amortentia, the most powerful love potion in existence. The room buzzed with concentration as students carefully measured ingredients and tended to their simmering cauldrons.

Eliza and Remus worked side by side, their movements synchronized from months of practicing together. Remus glanced at Eliza, noting the shadows under her eyes that had become a constant presence. Despite the meditation helping, her nightmares still plagued her, and it showed.

"Are you sure you're okay?" Remus asked quietly, his brow furrowed with concern.

Eliza gave him a small, reassuring smile. "I'm managing. Besides, I've got you here with me. That makes a world of difference."

He returned her smile, though worry still lingered in his eyes. "Just let me know if you need a break. We can ask Slughorn for some time to catch up later."

Eliza nodded, focusing back on her potion. She appreciated Remus's protectiveness, but she was determined not to let her struggles hold her back. They continued their work, the sweet, enticing aroma of the potion filling the air as they carefully stirred and added the final ingredients.

When the class ended, Professor Slughorn strolled over to inspect their work. He sniffed the potion and nodded approvingly. "Excellent, excellent! A perfect brew, Miss Black, Mr. Lupin. Well done!"

Leaving Potions, they headed to Defense Against the Dark Arts, taught by the formidable Professor McGonagall. Today's lesson involved practical defense techniques against dark creatures, requiring both mental acuity and physical agility.

As McGonagall explained the day's task, she caught Eliza's eye and gave her an encouraging nod. "Pair up and prepare to face your boggarts. Remember, it's not just about casting the spell-it's about maintaining your composure and focus."

Eliza felt a surge of determination. She and Remus were a well-practiced team, and she was ready to face whatever the boggart would throw at her. When it was their turn, the boggart shifted into a sinister figure resembling Voldemort, his wand raised menacingly.

"Riddikulus!" Eliza and Remus shouted in unison, transforming the dark figure into a comically oversized balloon that popped with a loud bang, eliciting laughter from their classmates.

"Excellent work, both of you," McGonagall praised, her stern expression softened by a hint of pride. "Facing your fears together shows true strength."

In Charms class, they worked on advanced non-verbal spells under Professor Flitwick's enthusiastic guidance. The small professor flitted around the classroom, offering tips and encouragement as students practiced. Remus and Eliza sat close, their wands moving in fluid synchrony as they cast non-verbal charms to make objects levitate and change color.

"Very good, very good!" Flitwick exclaimed as a series of feathers danced in the air around them, changing from vibrant blue to deep red. "Non-verbal spellcasting is no easy feat, and you two are excelling wonderfully."

Between classes, the Marauders would gather in the common room or the library, their textbooks and notes spread out before them as they quizzed each other and shared study tips. The bond between them had only grown stronger with each passing week, fortified by their collective determination to succeed.

During one such study session, James leaned back in his chair, rubbing his eyes tiredly. "I never thought I'd say this, but I actually miss the simplicity of O.W.L.s."

Sirius snorted, flipping through his Transfiguration notes. "Yeah, back when life was easy and our biggest worry was whether Snape would hex us in the corridor."

Peter, scribbling down Potions formulas, nodded in agreement. "These N.E.W.T.s are no joke. But we're almost there, right?"

Eliza, though exhausted, managed a smile. "We're in this together. And we've faced worse than exams before."

Remus reached over and squeezed her hand. "We'll get through this, Eliza. We always do."

As the weeks rolled on, their routine of classes, study sessions, and moments of laughter provided a rhythm that kept them grounded. Eliza continued her meditation sessions with Dumbledore, and while her nightmares persisted, she felt a growing sense of resilience and strength.

One evening, as they settled into the common room after a long day, Remus noticed Eliza's eyes drooping. "You should get some rest," he suggested gently. "You've been pushing yourself too hard."

Eliza shook her head. "I can't afford to fall behind. Besides, I've got all of you to keep me going."

James, lounging on the sofa with a stack of notes, chimed in. "And we're not going anywhere. But Remus is right. You need to take care of yourself, Eliza."

Sirius, who had been quietly observing, added, "We've got your back, always. Don't forget that."

Feeling the warmth and support of her friends, Eliza nodded. "Alright. I'll try to get some rest tonight."

That night, surrounded by the Marauders in their shared dormitory, Eliza found a sense of peace. She knew the road ahead was tough, but with her friends by her side, she felt ready to face whatever challenges came their way.