Power of Money

Dudley pondered for a moment, his eyes meeting Harry's slightly pleading gaze. Observing Harry's somewhat perplexed expression, he decided to address the matter.

"Harry, I think we should keep this matter a secret. No matter what happens, don't mention the 'Philosopher's Stone' after meeting Hagrid," Dudley advised, articulating his thoughts. "Let's stick to the agreed-upon steps.What do you think, Harry?"

It took a while, but Harry finally spoke, carefully choosing his words.

"Dudley, as you mentioned, we're currently facing an unusual situation. It's better to stay silent, observe more, and think things through. I can sense that Hogwarts assigned Hagrid as my Wizard Messenger for another purpose. Inside Gringotts, Hagrid never mentioned anything related to that... He lied to us, and it's clear he didn't take us seriously."

Before Harry could elaborate further, Dudley quickly intervened, waving his hand to halt Harry's seemingly endless stream of thoughts. Dudley, thought that Harry might transform into a detective, albeit with round glasses.

Observing Harry's serious expression, Dudley became certain that his cousin had started concocting theories about Hogwarts. Feeling a bit uneasy, Dudley sensed that he unintentionally dragged Harry into a world of "conspiracy" and "suspicion" that Harry had buried deep within.

After some reflection, Dudley understood Harry's change in mentality. Raised in a home where he wasn't treated well by Vernon, Harry faced constant scolding and humiliation. Suddenly, a positive force named "Hagrid" emerged from Hogwarts, offering Harry a new life and promising a world where people would treat him kindly. However, the honest and kind Hagrid concealed his true intentions in bringing Harry to Gringotts.

The mix of "trust" and "lies" left an impression on Harry's sensitive mind, creating an illusion of something inherently wrong. Dudley empathized with Harry's feeling that trusted friends shouldn't hide anything from each other.

Looking into Harry's eyes, Dudley felt a faint sense of loss. He knew he had to say something. Children's innocence shouldn't be tarnished, and while they might be thoughtful, cognitive immaturity should be considered. Deciding to act, Dudley's palm reached out with purpose.

Dudley's palm landed on Harry's shoulder. With a calm face and a gentle voice, Dudley explained, "Harry, I know there are things to discuss, but now might not be the best time. First and foremost, you need to understand that Hogwarts is a collective, and Hagrid represents only a specific group or type of wizard within this larger community."

In the eerie glow of the Gringotts vault, a profound conversation unfolded between Harry and Dudley, surrounded by the glimmering wealth of gold gallons and magical riches.

Dudley's voice softened, breaking the tension as he spoke, "Don't overly speculate on other people's thoughts." Harry, who had been silent, suddenly lifted his head and met Dudley's gaze, misty eyes reflecting confusion.

"Dudley, I don't understand what you said... But I just want to find someone who can fully accept me," Harry explained earnestly. "At least I don't want him to deliberately hide and lie from me."

Dudley, with a gentle smile, offered a pragmatic perspective, "Harry, you need to know that 'lies' will always exist in this world, whether they are well-intentioned or malicious." Harry's expression shifted, a hint of darkness clouding his eyes.

Dudley sighed softly, his usually gentle voice taking on a rare hoarseness, "Harry, you don't have to do this, sad! Maybe..."

"Dudley, do you have any way to make this world not have 'lies'?" Harry interrupted, his eyes gleaming with hope.

Dudley turned to the mountain of gold gallons, declaring, "See?"

Confused, Harry questioned, "See what?" Dudley explained, "The method is very ordinary, just rely on this pile of gold coins!"

Perplexed, Harry asked, "Gold coins? What does this have to do with power and lies?" Dudley pointed, "Do you know where this is?"

Harry replied, "Gringotts!"

Dudley smiled, "Yes, this is Gringotts, hoarding a lot of wealth in the wizarding world. I believe that everyone who is in need will like it here."

Caught off guard by Dudley's rhythm, Harry asked, "Dudley... I don't know, what exactly are you trying to say?"

Dudley spread his hands casually, "In your eyes, how do the group of 'goblins' sitting on the desk look?"

Describing them, Harry said, "They are short and have shriveled skin, in short, they look very uncomfortable."

Dudley prompted, "So Harry, do you remember the attitude of other wizards who entered Gringotts towards the staff?"

Confused, Harry shook his head, "Dudley, didn't you listen to Hagrid? These goblins possess 'good character', 'diligent work attitude', 'smart brain', and 'serious and responsible spirit'. What does it have to do with power and lies?"

Dudley corrected, "Harry, you're wrong. These are the factors that make them 'respected' and 'loved'. You also have these excellent 'qualities' and 'spirit'. You are kind, reliable, sincere, and considerate."

Harry, realizing something, argued, "Then... That's them... They think I'm a 'freak'... I'm a 'monster'!"

Dudley looked at Harry quietly, and with measured words, he asked, "In Gringotts, these goblins... Why are they 'respected', 'understood', and 'loved'?"

Harry swallowed, realizing a question he had avoided. As the truth dawned on him, Dudley gently stroked his head, offering words of wisdom, "Harry, don't think so much. Many things can't be solved just by thinking. You need to experience it for yourself, feel it, so that you will get the answer that you think. Don't think about changing anything now; what you need to do is to see more, learn more, think more... "

Dudley's calm smile illuminated the dim vault.

"Hello, hurry up!" The Gringotts Goblin's voice abruptly interrupted Harry and Dudley's conversation.

...

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