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The interior of Gringotts was far more spacious than it appeared from the outside. Clearly, an Undetectable Extension Charm had been cast over the building as well. It was, without question, an exceptionally practical enchantment.
The main hall contained countless doors leading to different sectors. Hundreds of goblins worked behind the counters, examining jewels, gold coins, and rare objects with delicate scales and magnifying lenses.
Under Professor McGonagall's guidance, the group approached one of the counters.
"Please, I need to exchange some Galleons for these gentlemen."
The goblin who had been wearing an impatient expression immediately produced a thin, artificial smile upon recognizing McGonagall.
"Professor McGonagall. New Hogwarts students?"
After her confirming nod, the smile vanished as he turned his gaze toward Vernon.
"How much?"
"What's the exchange rate?" Vernon asked, slightly nervous.
"Five pounds per Galleon," the goblin replied flatly, clearly irritated.
Vernon exhaled in relief and announced with exaggerated confidence:
"Then exchange one thousand Galleons."
"I'm afraid not, sir," the goblin said, a trace of disdain in his tone. "Hogwarts students may exchange currency only once per year, and the limit is one hundred Galleons per student."
"Right… then just two hundred," Vernon muttered.
He handed over one thousand pounds and received two small bags of gold coins — one for Harry and one for Dudley.
Mr. Granger did the same for Hermione.
Just as they were about to leave, McGonagall intervened.
"Wait. I need to accompany the Dursleys to visit Mr. Potter's vault."
She withdrew a small golden key from her pocket.
…
After a dizzying ride that felt like a roller coaster, they arrived at Harry's vault.
What they saw inside left everyone stunned.
Pile after pile of Galleons.
"I had no idea they were this wealthy," Vernon remarked, genuinely surprised.
He had always believed Lily and James to be irresponsible dreamers with no steady employment.
Now he was discovering that Harry was practically the heir to a fortune.
Even so, the Dursleys showed no greed. On the contrary, they were relieved that Harry would never need to worry about money in the future.
…
"Purchase everything listed in the supply sheet," McGonagall instructed.
The list included: uniforms, gloves, cloaks, textbooks, a wand, a cauldron, glass phials, a telescope, and scales.
Students were also permitted to bring an owl, a cat, or a toad.
Dudley studied the list with a slight frown.
Not because it was long — but because it was too short for his liking.
Especially when it came to Potions.
"Professor, may we bring additional items beyond what's listed here?"
"You may, but avoid Muggle objects. They will not function at Hogwarts."
Dudley was already considering acquiring superior equipment for brewing potions.
If possible, he intended to bring more than one set.
…
"It's getting late," McGonagall said, glancing at the sky. "We'd best divide up. The adults will stay with me to purchase cauldrons, books, and general supplies. The children may take care of their wands and uniforms."
No one objected.
Vernon and Mr. Granger were already discussing the possibility of having a drink at the Leaky Cauldron afterward.
…
Their first stop was the robe shop: Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions.
Madam Malkin was a short, plump witch dressed in purple.
"Hogwarts uniforms, dear? Let's see… two first-years and one seventh-year?"
Dudley couldn't help smiling at her assumption.
"No, ma'am. We're all first-years."
She blinked in surprise but nodded all the same.
Inside the shop, another boy was being fitted.
Pale skin. Platinum-blond hair.
While Dudley and Hermione discussed the finer details of the robes, Harry sat beside the boy.
They attempted conversation.
But the boy spoke in an affected drawl, stretching out his syllables as though every word were part of a performance.
Harry knew almost nothing about Hogwarts beyond its name.
Every time he answered with "I don't know," the other boy responded with a long, exaggerated, "Oh…"
For Harry, it was uncomfortable.
For the boy, it seemed like delightful conversation.
"Look at that big bloke," the blond remarked, pointing toward Dudley. "He says he's a first-year, but he looks stronger than Crabbe and Goyle. I bet he eats a lot."
Harry felt his blood heat.
Even if it was technically true.
"He's my cousin," he replied coldly.
"Is he?" the boy said, faint amusement in his voice. "Then why did he come with you? Where are your parents?"
"They're dead."
Harry had no desire to continue.
"Oh… I'm sorry," the boy said — though there was not a trace of sympathy in his tone. "They were like us, weren't they? Wizards?"
"Yes."
The mockery softened slightly.
"I suppose certain types shouldn't be admitted… like that girl standing beside your cousin…"
Hermione was clearly dressed in Muggle clothing.
For the boy, that alone was reason enough.
He didn't even get to finish his sentence.
A shadow blocked the light above him.
Before he could react, a large hand rested atop his head.
His face was slowly turned.
He looked up — and a massive face loomed inches from his own.
For a moment, it felt as though he were staring into the eyes of a colossal beast.
A chill ran down his spine.
Dudley slowly smiled, revealing his white teeth.
The boy felt warm breath against his face.
As if his head might be torn off at any second.
"Hello," Dudley said calmly.
"Nice to meet you."
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