Thanks for reading my story, I would appreciate any pointers or suggestions that can help me improve the story.

Let's pick up where we left off.

Chapter 2

Earlier that day, Harry Potter strolled down the nearly deserted streets of Diagon Alley, a stark contrast to the bustling magical marketplace he had known in his previous visits. The once-thriving hub of wizarding commerce had been diminished by the growing threats of Voldemort and his followers, leaving the cobblestone streets eerily empty. Harry found an odd comfort in the quietude; at least he wasn't being bombarded by the press or fanatical fans.

As he approached the massive white-marbled facade of Gringotts Wizarding Bank, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The imposing structure was a testament to the goblin craftsmanship and their mastery of magic. Goblins were known for their extraordinary abilities, particularly their skill in wandless magic, something most wizards could only dream of achieving.

Inside the bank, goblins moved with an effortless grace that belied their formidable power. They conducted complex transactions and managed the vaults with unparalleled efficiency. Harry watched, fascinated, as a goblin levitated a pile of gold coins with a mere flick of his fingers. Such feats were a reminder of the stark contrast between wizarding and goblin magic.

Approaching the main desk, Harry patiently waited for his turn to be served. He knew the importance of showing respect to the goblins, a courtesy that many wizards often overlooked or dismissed. Goblins valued respect above all else, and Harry had learned that treating them with deference was not only a matter of courtesy but also of practicality.

Finally, a goblin with sharp, calculating eyes approached him. Harry greeted him with a polite nod and a slight bow, acknowledging the goblin's authority. "Greetings, sir. I am Harry Potter. I have business with Gringotts today."

The goblin, who Harry recognized as Ragnok, one of the bank's directors, regarded him with a shrewd look. "Mr. Potter," Ragnok replied, his voice a deep rumble. "What brings you to Gringotts today?"

Harry offered a small, respectful smile. "I have a request, sir. I would like to make a withdrawal from my vault."

Ragnok's gaze remained fixed on Harry for a moment as if assessing his sincerity. Then, with a nod, he accepted Harry's request. "Very well, Mr. Potter. If you would be so kind as to provide me with your vault key, we shall proceed."

Harry reached into his pocket and withdrew the vault key Dumbledore had returned to him the previous year. It was a gesture of trust, a recognition that Harry was no longer the reckless spender he had been during his first year at Hogwarts. Dumbledore had faith in Harry's maturity and responsibility. With the key in hand, Harry presented it to Ragnok, who examined it briefly before returning his gaze to Harry.

"Follow me, Mr. Potter. We shall make our way to your vault." Harry bowed his head in gratitude, acknowledging the goblin's leadership. "Thank you, sir." Ragnok led Harry through the labyrinthine passages of Gringotts, their footsteps echoing in the dimly lit tunnels. As they descended deeper into the bank, the air grew cooler, and the atmosphere seemed to hum with ancient magic.

Finally, they arrived at Vault 687, Harry's trust fund vault. Ragnok gestured for Harry to approach the door, which bore the Potter family crest. With his vault key, the goblin unlocked the vault, revealing a chamber filled with piles of gleaming galleons, sickles, and knuts.

As Harry completed his withdrawal, Ragnok carefully recorded the transaction, and Harry's trust fund was replenished. The goblin director then turned to Harry, a hint of respect in his eyes, "You are a strange wizard Mr. Potter."

Harry was taken aback by the comment, "Oh?"

Ragnok gave a small grin, "Yes, you show uncommon kindness and respect toward goblins, a trait that not many possess nowadays."

"I have nothing but respect toward goblins, especially seeing how powerful you are. Your magic is free, not confined by a wand like wizards' magic is. One can only dream of being able to master wandless magic like goblins have," He replied.

Ragnok's grin seemed to grow wider, "Yes, long ago goblins and elves were forbidden to use wands after a large conflict against the wizards. Over time, goblins and elves have evolved to perform wandless magic and wizards have grown accustomed to their wands."

Intrigued, Harry continued, "So you're saying that wizards could also learn how to control their wandless magic as well?"

"Of course, however, it is a far from easy task. I only know of one wizard who can control theirs. Unfortunately, they are restricted to the most basic magic due to their growing age."

"Who?"

Ragnok chuckled indicating the answer was obvious, "Albus Dumbledore."

Harry chuckled as Ragnok led them back to the reception, feeling quite stupid, of course it was Dumbledore!

Before leaving Gringotts, Harry turned to Ragnok, a newfound respect for goblins and their knowledge of magic budding within him. "Ragnok, would it be possible for us to meet tomorrow at 9 a.m.?"

Harry was eager to learn more about the possibilities of magic, both undiscovered and lost to time. Maybe he could ask to be taught by a goblin. Wandless magic would be an advantage in a battle.

Ragnok regarded Harry with a thoughtful expression, then nodded slowly. "Very well, Mr. Potter. I shall meet with you tomorrow at 9 a.m. Here at Gringotts."

Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. He had encountered kindness and knowledge in unexpected places, and the prospect of delving into the mysteries of magic with someone as experienced as Ragnok filled him with hope.

"Thank you, Ragnok," Harry said sincerely. "I look forward to our meeting." With a nod of acknowledgment, Ragnok watched as Harry left the bank.

Harry entered Flourish and Blotts, the well-known and bustling wizarding bookshop in Diagon Alley. The bell above the door jingled as he stepped inside, and the scent of aged parchment and magical ink greeted him. Shelves upon shelves of books filled the store, their spines adorned with titles in various languages, promising knowledge and adventure.

Harry couldn't help but be reminded of Hermione's insatiable love for books. He knew she would be proud of his decision to deepen his magical knowledge.

As he browsed the aisles, Harry's eyes scanned the titles, searching for something that would aid him in his quest to become a more skilled wizard. He knew that the library at Hogwarts had been a valuable resource, but he felt the need to explore further. Books on advanced spellcasting, transfiguration, potion-making, and even ancient runes piqued his interest. He selected several volumes, their covers adorned with intricate designs and mysterious symbols.

After purchasing a stack of books, Harry realized he had no place to store them. His trunk was perpetually crammed, prompting a visit to a trunk shop. A shop assistant eagerly presented their finest trunks, pushing the most expensive one. Harry was initially taken aback by the price but was astonished as he inspected the trunk.

It was enchanted with an expansion charm that led to a spacious room below, perfect for training. The trunk also contained various compartments, offering ample space for his school supplies, books, broom, and more.

Recognizing its potential, Harry made the purchase, knowing he had the means to do so. He carefully placed his newly acquired books inside the trunk and then shrunk it down to a manageable size, allowing it to fit comfortably in his pocket.

Returning to the Leaky Cauldron at 6 p.m., Harry made his way to his room. He carefully placed down his newly acquired trunk and enlarged it to its full size. Transferring his belongings from his old trunk to the new one, he marveled at the additional space and compartments that would make his life much easier.

Before delving into the exploration of the room within his trunk, Harry decided to head downstairs for a hearty dinner. He ordered bangers and mash, a comforting and filling choice, and accompanied it with a cold butterbeer. Though the butterbeer at the Leaky Cauldron was good, it couldn't quite match the taste of the one served at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade. Still, the warm atmosphere and familiar surroundings of the Leaky Cauldron provided a sense of comfort and solace that Harry greatly appreciated.

With a satisfied meal under his belt, Harry looked forward to the discoveries that awaited him in the expanded space of his new trunk.

Harry descended the ladder into the spacious room within his newly acquired trunk. The chamber was plain and unadorned, with simple stone walls, but it was well-lit at all times thanks to a clever charm. It provided ample space for both physical exercise and practicing spells, a perfect sanctuary for honing his magical skills.

As Harry explored the room, he noticed a door leading to 4 separate chambers, perfect for bedrooms and a kitchen. The prospect of personalizing these spaces filled him with excitement. However, for the time being, he needed to focus on setting up the trunk and organizing his belongings.

Returning to the real world outside the trunk, Harry decided to spend the rest of the evening reading his newly acquired books. He started with the tome on ancient runes, and within just a few hours, he found himself engrossed in its contents. The subject fascinated him, and he couldn't help but regret not having taken Ancient Runes as an elective during his time at Hogwarts.

Harry immersed himself in his book on advanced ancient runes, absorbing the fascinating knowledge it contained. As he delved deeper into the subject, he uncovered the intricate world of the runic language, a form of writing used by witches and wizards centuries ago. The history and applications of runes unfolded before him, revealing their potential for enhancing his magic and providing protection. Harry's excitement grew as he discovered that runes could be employed to achieve remarkable feats, such as rendering oneself invulnerable to fire through a specific combination of runic drawings. While Harry didn't consider himself much of an artist, he hoped his calligraphy skills would suffice for such important magical work. Continuing his exploration of the book, Harry stumbled upon a particularly intriguing concept, one that could be significant in helping Harry with his training: a rune that could manipulate time within a specific area. This concept, however, was only briefly mentioned in the text, as it was considered an exceedingly complex and advanced magical endeavor. Few witches and wizards had the skill and mastery required to create such a rune. He would definitely ask Ragnok what he knew about it, he knew how intelligent goblins were, even with ancient magic.

The excitement of learning about new forms of magic filled Harry, reminiscent of the wonder he had felt when he was first introduced to the wizarding world. As he turned the pages, he made mental notes and sketched diagrams in the margins, eager to deepen his understanding of the magical arts.

With a sense of contentment, Harry eventually decided that an early night would be beneficial. He knew that rest was crucial for his studies, and flopped on his bed, unable to sleep for half an hour due to his uncommon enthusiasm.

Harry woke up from another peaceful night's sleep, free from the haunting nightmares that had plagued him in the past. He quickly went about his morning routine, taking a refreshing shower and getting ready for the day ahead. Afterward, he headed downstairs to the Leaky Cauldron's dining area for another delicious breakfast.

With a satisfied stomach, Harry made his way to Gringotts, arriving promptly at 8:59 a.m. He approached the main desk, expecting to meet Ragnok, the goblin he had scheduled an appointment with for 9:00 a.m. However, to his surprise, he was greeted by Griphook, a familiar face from his first visit to the bank when he was just eleven years old. Harry politely acknowledged Griphook, who was taken aback that Harry remembered his name—a display of uncommon kindness from a wizard.

Harry informed Griphook of his appointment with Ragnok at 9:00 a.m., and the goblin agreed to escort him to the meeting. As they made their way through the labyrinthine halls of Gringotts, Harry couldn't help but reflect on the unique relationships he had formed with the goblins, filled with mutual respect and understanding. He knew that these connections would prove invaluable as he continued to explore the depths of magic and the mysteries of the wizarding world.

Upon reaching their destination, Griphook left Harry in a meeting room with Ragnok, who was no doubt eager to continue their discussion about the possibilities of ancient and lost magic. With a polite greeting and a sense of anticipation, Harry was ready to delve once more into the realm of magical knowledge.

Ragnok was just as curious as Harry, "So Mr. Potter what can I do for you this morning?"

Harry expressed his strong desire to train and increase both his magical power and knowledge, recognizing the inherent intelligence of goblins, especially in matters of ancient and esoteric magic. Ragnok sensed that Harry was looking for something specific and inquired further. Harry revealed that he had discovered an ancient rune capable of slowing down time in a specific area, a revelation that would be immensely useful.

He explained his plan to train within a trunk enchanted with an expansion charm, creating a space where he could dedicate himself to mastering his training without the constraints of real-world time.

Understanding the urgency and the growing risks posed by Voldemort's return, Ragnok offered his assistance. He mentioned having heard of this rune before and promptly vanished with a loud POP. Twenty seconds later, he reappeared with a large and weathered tome titled "Ancient Runes."

Harry's eyes fixed on the simple title yet despite it, he felt it had the answers he was looking for. He felt a surge of gratitude toward the goblin when Ragnok explained that, with no immediate business at hand, he was more than willing to help Harry unravel the mysteries of this ancient rune. He began by teaching Harry some fundamental principles of ancient runes in the first hour, laying the groundwork for their deeper exploration.

As they delved into the book, they soon encountered the rune Harry had mentioned. It proved to be a remarkable and incredibly complex symbol, adorned with intricate calligraphy and tied to a ritual. Ragnok assured Harry that they could decipher and master it together.

The Order of the Phoenix and the Grangers were deeply concerned about Harry's sudden disappearance. He had seemingly vanished without a trace from Privet Drive, leaving no clues to follow. The uncertainty surrounding his whereabouts weighed heavily on everyone's minds.

Hermione, ever the detail-oriented thinker, brought up an important point from Harry's past. In his third year at Hogwarts, he had run away from the Dursleys to the Leaky Cauldron using the Knight Bus. The Order considered this information, recognizing that it was a plausible way for Harry to have escaped his unpleasant circumstances once again.

After dedicating several more hours to their study of the ancient rune, Harry and Ragnok successfully deciphered how to set up the space for time manipulation within the trunk. The process involved placing four runes at the room's perimeter, each bearing unique symbols. To activate the enchantment, Harry would need to provide a drop of his own blood on each rune, as he was the trunk's owner.

Recognizing the need for precision and expertise, Harry entrusted the task of inscribing the runes to Ragnok, who agreed to accompany Harry back to the Leaky Cauldron to assist with the setup. Harry lent Ragnok his invisibility cloak to ensure they went unnoticed. On their way to Harry's room, they nearly collided with a house elf. This chance encounter sparked an idea in Harry's mind—he could enlist Dobby's help. Dobby, the free elf who had once served the Malfoys and later Hogwarts, could assist him with setting up the trunk, bringing in furniture, and even preparing meals.

Upon reaching the trunk, Harry and Ragnok spent several hours perfecting the rune placement and activation. Another benefit to the runes was that they made magic performed in the area unable to be traced. This meant Harry could go all out without being caught by the Ministry. By the time they were finished, it was 8 p.m. Harry marveled at the time distortion: two days outside the trunk equaled a full year within it. Ragnok then proposed another meeting for the following day at 9 a.m. to discuss Harry's training further, to which Harry readily agreed.

"Thank you, Ragnok. Your help with the runes and your support means a lot to me. I can't express how much I appreciate it."

Ragnok nodded, "You're most welcome, Harry. Your dedication to your training and your determination to protect our world are admirable. I am here to assist you in any way I can."

"I'm truly fortunate to have your guidance. I look forward to our meeting tomorrow to discuss my training further. I'm eager to learn as much as I can."

"I have no doubt you will excel in your studies, Harry. Your potential is vast, and I believe you will achieve great things. Until tomorrow, then."

"Until tomorrow, Ragnok. Thank you again."

Turning his attention to the immediate tasks at hand, Harry called upon Dobby, who was overjoyed to see his friend.

"Dobby is happy to see Harry Potter!"

Harry smiled, "It's great to see you too Dobby. I have an offer for you, would you like to be my house-elf?"

Dobby sniffled, "Dobby would be honored."

"Great! I promise I will be a kind master."

With their oaths of loyalty exchanged, Harry and Dobby solidified their bond. Harry showed him around the trunk and gave him an overview of what he had planned. Harry entrusted Dobby with the task of acquiring furniture for the trunk setup and encouraged him to get a good night's rest in preparation for the work ahead.

Hermione's worry for Harry continued to gnaw at her. His uncharacteristic silence weighed heavily on her mind. Harry had always been prompt in responding to her letters, and the fact that he hadn't was deeply concerning.

As she reflected on his sudden departure from 4 Privet Drive, Hermione couldn't help but wonder why he had left without informing anyone. The unanswered questions left her feeling anxious and restless. Was he safe? Where had he gone?

Unable to quell her growing concern, Hermione decided to send another letter to Harry, hoping to break the silence and gain some reassurance about his well-being. She knew that their friendship was built on trust and support, and she couldn't bear the uncertainty surrounding Harry's disappearance.

Hermione took 15 minutes and scribbled a short letter to Harry. Luckily, Ron had sent Hermione a letter earlier and Errol had stayed behind awaiting a response. She attached her letter to Ron and her letter to Harry to him. Hermione felt guilty for making him do extra work by trying to find Harry, he was an old owl but tried his best.

Harry awoke to the soft, golden light of the morning sun spilling through the window of his room within the enchanted trunk. He felt a hint of laziness tugging at him, a rare luxury he allowed himself. With the clock reading 7 a.m., he decided to stay in bed a bit longer and indulge in some early-morning reading.

The book he had chosen to immerse himself in was his tome on advanced dueling, a subject that never failed to captivate him. His curiosity was piqued by a specific section discussing the art of chaining spells to swiftly dismantle shield charms—a technique that could prove invaluable in battle.

As he turned the pages, delving deeper into the intricacies of dueling, he was startled by a sudden and loud hoot. His attention snapped away from the book, and he swiftly turned toward the window to find Errol, the Weasley family's aging owl, perched on the sill.

Errol had two letters attached to his legs, a testament to the bird's determination to complete his mission. Harry recognized the slightly disheveled owl, known for his mishaps and good-natured clumsiness. He was amazed that Errol had managed to find him, even in his secluded location.

Without hesitation, Harry rushed to open the window and allowed Errol to enter. The owl appeared to be relieved as he extended one leg, clearly indicating which letter was intended for Harry. Harry carefully untied the letter from Errol's leg, all the while remembering the bird's previous misadventures in the Weasley household.

Errol made a clumsy exit from the room, brushing against the window in his signature awkward manner before soaring away. Harry, now holding the letter addressed to him, felt a mix of surprise and anticipation. It was an unexpected and welcome sight—a letter from Hermione.

Vernon's decision to block Harry's window had not only cut him off from the world but also hindered his ability to communicate with his closest friends. Harry had been so preoccupied with setting up the enchanted training room and other matters that he had temporarily forgotten to reply to Hermione's letters.

With a sense of eagerness, Harry carefully unfolded the letter, eager to hear from Hermione and hoping to provide her with some reassurance about his well-being.

Dear Harry,

I hope this letter finds you well, though I must admit, I'm incredibly worried about you. You've never failed to return my letters before, and your unexplained disappearance from 4 Privet Drive has left me quite upset. We've all been trying to find you and are growing increasingly concerned for your safety.

It's been quite a hectic summer for all of us. Ron's been helping his family with the chores at the Burrow, and he's been training Quidditch with the Chudley Cannons. He misses you terribly and is anxious about not hearing from you. Ginny's been working at Flourish and Blotts, and she says she's come across some fascinating new books.

As for me, I've been doing some reading, of course. I'm also trying my hand at growing magical herbs in my garden—Mum's been teaching me a few things about it. And I've been knitting sweaters for house-elves to send to various families in need. It's not much, but it's something I can do to make a difference. Oh, and I'm planning on staying at the Burrow for some of the holidays!

But enough about us; I'm much more concerned about you and your well-being. Please, Harry, let us know that you're safe and sound. Write back as soon as you can. You better write back, or I might just have to owl you a Howler!

Take care, Harry.

Love,

Hermione

As Harry finished reading Hermione's letter, a twinge of guilt settled in his chest. He couldn't help but feel responsible for causing her so much worry and uncertainty with his unexplained disappearance. Her concern was a testament to their deep friendship, and it touched him profoundly.

A soft chuckle escaped his lips as he reread the part where Hermione mentioned that she had obviously been reading over the holidays. It was a characteristic Hermione thing to do, and it brought a small smile to his face. Her unwavering commitment to learning and her dedication to their studies were traits that he both admired and cherished.

Determined to alleviate Hermione's concern and to reconnect with his friend, Harry decided that it was high time to send her a letter. He would express his gratitude for her support and apologize for the worry he had caused.

With a sense of resolve, Harry picked up a fresh sheet of parchment and began to compose his reply. He would let Hermione know that he was safe and well, and he couldn't help but tell her that he had been hard at work learning more about magic. He would say that he intended to train over the holidays but decided not to tell her about his new enchanted trunk and his new bond with Dobby. As he penned his words, Harry couldn't help but feel a warmth in his heart—a reminder of how lucky he was to have Hermione in his life.

Harry was deeply touched by the warmth from Hermione's closing, "Love, Hermione." He realized that their bond had grown into something extraordinary, a connection that surpassed ordinary friendship. With a sense of gratitude and affection, Harry decided to reciprocate the sentiment. He wanted Hermione to know just how much she meant to him, not just as a friend, but as someone he held in his heart in a very special way. He carefully penned his closing words, "Love, Harry," and sealed the letter with a warm sense of contentment.

Harry turned to his loyal companion, Hedwig, who had been perched patiently nearby. He knew that Hedwig had been cooped up and restless during the summer, unable to embark on the journeys she so often enjoyed.

"Hey, Hedwig," Harry said softly, reaching out to stroke her snowy feathers. "I've got an important job for you."

Hedwig blinked her large, intelligent eyes and tilted her head as if to listen attentively.

"I need you to take this letter to Hermione," Harry continued, holding out the sealed parchment.

Hedwig let out a happy hoot, a sign of her eagerness to be on the wing again. She extended her leg, allowing Harry to attach the letter securely to her talon.

Harry smiled at his feathered friend. "You're the best, Hedwig. Be safe, and make sure Hermione gets this letter."

Hedwig was a seasoned traveler, and she knew the route to Hermione's house well. With graceful and efficient flight, she covered the distance in just one and a half hours. As the sun had fully set, she arrived at Hermione's windowsill.

Hedwig's arrival was silent, her snowy form blending seamlessly with the twilight. She perched on the windowsill, her bright eyes focused on the window, waiting patiently for Hermione to notice her presence.

Hermione couldn't believe her eyes when she spotted Hedwig perched on her windowsill. The sight of Harry's snowy owl brought an immediate rush of excitement and joy. It had been far too long since she had heard from her dear friend, and seeing Hedwig with a letter in her talon was a welcomed surprise.

With a delighted gasp, Hermione rushed over to the window, her heart racing with anticipation. She carefully opened the window, allowing Hedwig to enter, and extended her hand to gently take the letter from the owl's talon.

Dear Hermione,

I hope this letter finds you well. I can't express how truly sorry I am for not replying to your letters sooner. You have no idea how much I missed hearing from you, and it pains me to know that you were worried about me.

The reason for my silence is that Vernon had barred up my window so that I couldn't send or receive any letters. The letters you sent went through the mail flap, but Vernon always got to them first and burned them before I had the chance to read them. It was just one more way he tried to isolate me and cut me off from the outside world.

Things at 4 Privet Drive were worse than ever this summer. I was forced to do everything around the house—gardening, cooking, cleaning, and more. Vernon's temper was unpredictable, and he constantly verbally attacked me, finding fault with every little thing. There were times when he resorted to using his belt, and I couldn't take it anymore.

After enduring a week of that unbearable environment, I decided to leave. I did not bother to inform the Order as I felt quite angry and frustrated. Dumbledore's decision to make me stay there, despite his best intentions, weighed heavily on me. If you could tell the order that I am safe and well, that would be greatly appreciated. I can't disclose my current location for safety reasons, but I want you to know that content with where I am, I have a place to stay, and I'm far away from the Dursleys' reach.

On a brighter note, I've been dedicating my time to reading and learning about advanced magic. I've been exploring subjects and spells that have always fascinated me, and I'm determined to further my magical knowledge. I have also decided to train this summer, mostly focusing on my dueling skills.

I want you to know that I deeply regret making you worry about me. I value our relationship more than words can express, and it hurts me to think that my absence caused you any distress. But I want you to understand that leaving the Dursleys was the right decision. I couldn't endure their mistreatment any longer, and I needed to find a place where I could continue my magical studies.

I promise to write more frequently to keep you updated on my progress and to ensure that we stay connected, no matter the circumstances.

Take care, Hermione. Until next time, and I promise it won't be too long.

Love,

Harry

P.S. By the way I'm going to be at a meeting at 9 am at Gringotts so I won't be able to reply instantly. But I promise to write back as soon as possible.

As Hermione finished reading Harry's letter, a wave of emotions swept over her. Relief washed over her as she realized that Harry was safe and well, but it was accompanied by a deep sense of anger and disgust at the Dursleys' actions. She couldn't fathom how people could treat someone, especially someone as kind and sweet as Harry, so horribly.

Hermione's anger extended to Dumbledore, too, for forcing Harry to return to the Dursleys' once again. She knew that Dumbledore had his reasons, but it was difficult for her to accept when she saw the suffering Harry had endured.

However, despite these mixed feelings, Hermione couldn't help but feel proud of Harry for taking his learning more seriously. She had always known that Harry was intelligent, but he had often relied on his natural talent rather than putting in the effort to study. Seeing him take the initiative to improve himself warmed her heart.

She was particularly intrigued by how Harry planned to practice his dueling skills without being caught for underage magic. Hermione knew that the Ministry was strict about underage wizards using magic outside of school, and she wondered how Harry intended to work around that.

Hermione penned a note to the Order, informing them that Harry had sent her a letter confirming his safety and well-being. It was important to let the Order know, so they wouldn't waste precious time worrying about Harry.

She then turned her attention to composing a response to Harry's letter. She had so many questions and thoughts to share with him. After finishing her letter, she retrieved some owl treats and affectionately rewarded Hedwig for her speedy delivery. She attached both letters securely to Hedwig's talons and gave her a gentle ruffle of the wings before watching her soar into the sky, on her way to deliver the messages to Harry and the Order.

The members of the Order of the Phoenix gathered at 12 Grimmauld Place were puzzled when they received the note from Hermione. The fact that Hedwig had been the bearer of the letter raised questions among them.

As they read Hermione's message, relief washed over them at the news that Harry was safe and well. The shock and anger at hearing about the Dursleys' treatment of Harry were palpable in the room. The Order members couldn't understand how anyone could treat him with such cruelty, and it fueled their determination to bring an end to Voldemort's reign of terror.

Albus Dumbledore, who sat quietly at the head of the table, felt a deep sense of sympathy for Harry. He had always strived to keep the young wizard safe, but he couldn't protect him from the abuse inflicted by his relatives. Dumbledore knew that his intentions had always been to shield Harry from harm, but sometimes he couldn't prevent the suffering that occurred in Harry's life.

Despite their concern for Harry's well-being, the Order members understood that Harry had reasons for not revealing his exact location. They realized that dwelling on his whereabouts wouldn't be productive at the moment. Instead, they focused on continuing their efforts to combat Voldemort and his followers, with the hope that Harry would eventually rejoin them in the fight.

While the search for Harry wasn't entirely called off, the Order members understood that they had to respect his choices and give him the space he needed. They knew that Harry was resourceful and capable of taking care of himself, and they had faith that he would continue to work toward the greater good, just as they were doing.

Harry arrived at Gringotts promptly at 9 a.m., greeted by Ragnok at the main desk. The goblin led him to a meeting room where they could discuss Harry's training. As they settled into their seats, Ragnok began, "Mr. Potter, I understand you are seeking intensive training to enhance your magical abilities and physical prowess. We can offer you a unique opportunity."

Harry nodded eagerly. "Yes, I'm very interested in advanced training. I want to become stronger and more skilled."

Ragnok studied him for a moment before suggesting, "How would you feel about being trained by one of our goblin warriors? This would encompass physical training, weapon proficiency, wandless magic, advanced dueling, and theoretical magical studies."

Harry's eyes lit up at the idea. "I would be honored, Ragnok. That sounds exactly like what I need."

The goblin nodded in approval. "Very well. Now, considering your usage of the time rune and your intention to spend a significant amount of time in your trunk, we need to plan accordingly. How long do you intend to remain inside?"

Harry contemplated for a moment. "I think it would take a few years to master the skills I want to learn. How about one week outside the trunk, which would translate to three and a half years inside?"

Ragnok raised an eyebrow. "That's a substantial commitment. You understand that you won't age while inside the trunk?"

Harry nodded confidently. "I'm aware of that, and I'm willing to make the sacrifice to become stronger."

Ragnok considered Harry's determination and said, "Very well, Mr. Potter. We can proceed with that arrangement. However, there is a matter we need to address. How do you plan to sustain yourself for three and a half years without food or water?"

Harry smiled and called for Dobby, who appeared with a pop. "Dobby, I need your help with something very important."

Dobby, always eager to assist Harry, said, "Of course, Harry Potter, sir. Dobby is here to help." Harry explained the situation to Dobby, including his intention to train inside the trunk and the need for sustenance.

"I need you to cook for me and keep me company while I'm inside. 4 chambers in the trunk can be used as bedrooms and a kitchen, so our guest, a goblin warrior, can stay there too."

Dobby's large eyes shone with excitement. "Dobby is happy to help, Harry Potter, sir! We will make your training time enjoyable!"

Ragnok approved of the practical arrangement. "Very well, Mr. Potter, it's settled. I and the goblin warrior will meet you tomorrow inside your room at 9 a.m. I've been inside it before, so I can apparate in. We will begin your training tomorrow."

Harry couldn't contain his excitement as he thanked Ragnok for his support and assistance. After saying his farewells, he headed back to the Leaky Cauldron.

Once inside his trunk, Harry called for Dobby, and they spent eight hours personalizing the rooms, with Dobby bringing in furniture and occasionally transfiguring objects to Harry's liking. Harry was impressed with Dobby's efficiency and skill.

As they exited the trunk, they realized that only three minutes had passed outside. Harry was elated that the rune was working so effectively. He knew that this unique training opportunity, with the guidance of a goblin warrior and the assistance of Dobby, was the key to becoming a more formidable wizard.

Dobby was thrilled at the task Harry had given him. He knew how important this mission was to Harry, and he was determined to succeed. With the 800 galleons in hand, Dobby set off into Diagon Alley, his enthusiasm bubbling.

His first stop was Flourish and Blotts, the famous bookstore in Diagon Alley. Dobby had a list in hand, carefully noting down the titles and authors of the advanced books Harry wanted. He approached the store owner and, with a polite smile, asked for assistance in finding these specific books. The owner, impressed by Dobby's manners, was more than happy to help. Together, they scoured the shelves for books on advanced dueling, transfiguration, potions, charms, and the mind arts.

Dobby was meticulous in his choices, ensuring that he picked the most comprehensive and challenging books available. Some of them were so rare that they were stored in a special section of the bookstore, accessible only to serious buyers. Dobby's stack of books grew steadily, but he wasn't done yet.

After securing the books on the magical subjects, Dobby decided to venture into Knockturn Alley. He had heard tales of the dark and dangerous nature of this place, but he was undeterred. Dobby was on a mission for Harry, and he would not be swayed.

In Knockturn Alley, Dobby found a different kind of bookstore, one that catered to the darker side of magic. Here, he discovered books on forbidden curses, dark rituals, and obscure branches of magic that few dared to explore. Dobby was cautious as he selected these books, ensuring that they were securely wrapped and hidden away in his magical bag.

As he navigated the winding alleys of Knockturn, Dobby also stumbled upon a shop that sold magical accessories. Among the various items on display, one caught his eye—a bag with an undetectable extension charm. It was the perfect solution to carry the multitude of books he had purchased. Dobby haggled with the shopkeeper and managed to secure a good deal.

With the bag in hand, he continued his shopping spree, applying a feather-light charm to make the bag's load manageable. Dobby also remembered that Harry enjoyed reading fiction, so he picked up a copy of "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" to add a touch of leisure to Harry's collection.

By the time Dobby was done, he had collected an impressive array of books, ranging from the most advanced magical texts to the darkest of tomes. He felt a sense of accomplishment as he made his way back to the Leaky Cauldron, his magical bag levitating beside him. Harry would be pleased with his efforts, and Dobby couldn't wait to see his reaction.

Harry had been engrossed in his study of advanced transfiguration, exploring the intricate details of magical transformations and their applications when he heard a soft knock on the door. He looked up, and to his delight, Dobby entered the room, levitating a small beaded bag.

Harry's curiosity was piqued. "Dobby, what's in the bag?" Harry asked, setting aside his book.

Dobby beamed with pride as he approached Harry. "Harry Potter, sir, Dobby has brought all the books you requested. They're inside this bag."

Harry's eyes widened with excitement. "Really? That's incredible, Dobby! You're a lifesaver."

Dobby blushed, clearly pleased with Harry's reaction. "Dobby is always here to help, sir."

Harry took the bag from Dobby's levitating grip and marveled at it. "An undetectable extension charm, huh? That's brilliant. Thanks, Dobby. Let's put it in the training room, where we can organize everything."

Dobby nodded eagerly, leading Harry to the training room.

Before he could climb down the trunk, Harry's heart leaped with joy as he heard the gentle tap on his window and the familiar hoot that could only belong to Hedwig. He rushed to the window and opened it, welcoming his beloved snowy owl inside. Hedwig perched gracefully on the windowsill, her bright eyes filled with intelligence and affection.

"Hey, girl," Harry greeted her with a warm smile. He knew that Hedwig had successfully delivered his letter to Hermione, and now she had returned with a reply. His anticipation was palpable as he carefully untied the letter from Hedwig's leg.

Hedwig hooted softly, her feathers ruffling with contentment as Harry began to read Hermione's reply.

Dear Harry,

I can't begin to express how relieved and overjoyed I am to hear from you. Your safety means everything to me, and I completely understand why you weren't able to write earlier. Please don't ever think I hold it against you. Your well-being is paramount, and knowing you're all right is the best news I could receive.

I'm appalled by what you've had to endure at the hands of the Dursleys. It infuriates me that you were subjected to such treatment, especially after all you've been through. But I also understand why you felt the need to leave. Your resilience and strength are truly remarkable, Harry. You're one of the bravest people I know.

I did as you asked and sent a note to the Order, letting them know that you're safe and well, just like you wanted. They were concerned about you, as you can imagine, but now they can rest easier knowing you're okay.

Harry, I'm so incredibly proud of you for taking your studies seriously. I've always known you were brilliant, but perhaps a bit too lazy at times. It's heartening to see you embrace your magical education with such enthusiasm. You've always had the potential to be one of the greatest wizards of our time.

I want you to know that I've been just as diligent with my studies as you have. While I can't practice as you can with your specialized training, I've been reading and studying every minute I can. I've been delving into advanced charms, potions, and spellwork.

I'm curious about your training, though. How are you able to evade the underage magic law? What kind of training are you doing, and when do you find the time for it? I'm sure there's so much you're learning and experiencing that I'd love to hear about. It's clear that you're determined to become stronger, not just for yourself, but for all of us. Your dedication to protecting those you love is one of the things that makes you so extraordinary. Your determination and courage are truly inspiring, and I have no doubt that you will achieve greatness in your magical endeavors. Just remember to take care of yourself along the way.

Thank you for wanting to stay in contact with me, Harry. You mean the world to me, and our bond is a source of strength and comfort for both of us, I believe. We've been through so much together, and I have no doubt that we'll continue to support each other no matter what challenges lie ahead.

Please take care of yourself, Harry, and know that I'm here for you, always.

With all my love,

Hermione

"You really are something, Hermione," Harry murmured, touched by her dedication to learning even during the summer break. He knew that her thirst for knowledge was unquenchable and admired her for it.

But it was Hermione's genuine worry for him that touched Harry's heart the most. Harry couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of gratitude for having Hermione in his life.

Harry decided he would reply to Hermione in the morning, before he started his training.

Harry felt a rush of gratitude as he surveyed the collection of books that Dobby had acquired for him. It was an impressive and diverse selection, covering a wide range of magical subjects.

He couldn't help but smile at the thought of all the knowledge waiting to be explored. "Dobby, you've outdone yourself," Harry said, his voice filled with appreciation. "I can't thank you enough for this. These books will be incredibly valuable for my training."

Dobby beamed with pride, his large ears flopping happily. "Dobby is pleased that Harry Potter is pleased! Dobby will always be here to help Master Harry with anything he needs."

Harry nodded, touched by Dobby's loyalty and dedication. "You're a true friend, Dobby. I couldn't ask for a better companion in this journey."

Well, maybe I wouldn't mind if a certain witch accompanied me. Harry thought, unable to hide his grin.