Zhao Lun picked up the items on the ground and examined them. They were recent newspapers from the magical world and letters from friends.
Finding a comfortable spot, he sat down and began reading the letters from his friends. Everyone seemed to be doing well and enjoying their lives. The Weasley family had won a lottery and planned to go on vacation.
Other friends wrote about their playful adventures, and many included photos. Seeing his friends so happy made Zhao Lun smile, but soon his expression turned more serious as he set the letters aside, contemplating their contents.
"How stubborn," he sighed, realizing the underlying issues that were not being addressed.
One of the letters was from Potter, a letter filled with complaints about his life with his aunt and uncle.
Zhao Lun's arrangements had proven useful. For the first few days, Potter had enjoyed his stay, receiving treatment that was on par with his cousin. He had even moved out of the cramped cupboard and had the chance to fight over the remote control for the television, getting into amusing squabbles with his cousin. During this time, he felt a sense of relief, thinking that perhaps life wouldn't be so bad.
However, things took a turn for the worse. He didn't know what had gotten into his aunt and uncle, but they had suddenly become strict again. They forced him back into the cupboard and imposed strict limitations on his activities as punishment for his newfound boldness.
Fortunately, Zhao Lun's people sensed Potter's distress and rescued him, allowing him some freedom. However, his aunt and uncle treated him like an enemy, their hostility towards him was blatant.
This situation left Potter feeling frustrated.
After reading these letters, Zhao Lun decided it was best not to interfere in Potter's family matters; he didn't want to breach their privacy and risk making things worse.
He wrote a reply, offering some words of comfort and also sending a potion book, advising him, "Since you're feeling down, why not spend some time revisiting your old books? This one will help you avoid trouble with Snape. And of course, feel free to call me when you have time."
With the letters addressed, Zhao Lun opened the magical newspaper to catch up on recent events.
"Sure enough, the world seems harmonious; everyone is getting along."
Aside from minor incidents reported, the magical world appeared to be in a state of peace. Zhao Lun skimmed past the mundane stories and searched for more interesting articles, such as a new shop opening, the release of magical products, and a new type of cuisine. He took these as light entertainment.
"Hmm? Someone won a prize?"
The images in the newspaper were animated and vivid. One particularly lively image showcased a family celebrating their lottery win. Zhao Lun recognized the Weasley family, each member beaming as they posed for the reporters.
This year had brought them good fortune, and they were excitedly discussing their plans for a trip to Egypt.
"Things are progressing as expected."
Zhao Lun's gaze landed on a small rat in the image, prompting this thought, and he set aside the outdated newspaper to look at a new one.
Sure enough, today's paper announced that someone had escaped from the most notorious prison in the magical world, Azkaban. The escapee was none other than Sirius Black, a former friend of Potter's father, who had been labeled a traitor. The accompanying image showed a disheveled, gaunt man with vacant eyes.
"Is this a photo from before his escape from Azkaban?"
The longer a person stayed in Azkaban, the greater the chance they would lose their sanity. Sirius had been imprisoned for over a decade, and while he had survived the ordeal, the current image looked too pristine, leading Zhao Lun to believe it was likely taken shortly after his arrival at the prison.
"An escape? This is going to stir up quite the excitement."
Zhao Lun set the newspaper aside, anticipating thrilling events ahead. He opened his mind interface, quickly copied the recorded information, and stored it in Athena's database for future reference, so that Nicole and the others could review it later.
Having organized his materials, he made his way to the game room. Upon reaching the door, he heard laughter coming from within.
Zhao Lun chuckled and pushed the door open, just in time to see several people gathered around a large screen, excitedly chatting.
Not wanting to interrupt, he quietly observed. At a glance, he knew the source of these videos; they were all recordings he had captured using his mind interface. The group was busy editing the footage, preparing to create a new project.
Though their idea was good, without Zhao Lun's advanced assistance, they needed Athena nearby to direct them in the editing process.
"Are you all planning to make a movie out of these clips?"
"Yes, boss! What do you think? This idea isn't half bad, right?"
"Your new movie?"
"Of course! It's been ages since we released one, and our fans have been eagerly waiting. I think they'll be thrilled with this new edit."
"Let's hope you can handle any troubles that arise."
They were indeed preparing to edit a movie, so Zhao Lun didn't stop them. He merely reminded them that their efforts might attract trouble.
These videos captured real events, and while he intended to modify them, the essence remained unchanged, which would certainly draw attention.
Ordinary fans would rave about the thrilling experience, likely drawing in even more viewers. However, those with a deeper understanding would perceive subtler layers within the film.
This posed risks, as the real danger lay in attracting the attention of extraordinary beings, such as vampires and other supernatural entities. Such encounters were perilous and difficult to navigate.
"Don't worry, boss! No matter how many invaders come, we'll take them down," one of them assured.
"Are you planning to use the invaders as a training exercise?"
The group nodded earnestly. "That's exactly the idea!"
"Suit yourselves," Zhao Lun replied.
After this summer, he, Penelope, and Maria would be heading off to school, leaving the ladies behind at the estate. The group was formidable, well-equipped, and although they routinely dealt with some shady organizations, the training had become less effective. The presence of extraordinary foes would be perfect for honing their skills.
They requested Zhao Lun's assistance with the editing, and he agreed, "In a few days, I'll have it ready for you. As for you, just prepare yourself."
With his mind interface, he could quickly produce a satisfactory product. However, Zhao Lun didn't want to be too casual about it. After all, making things too easy could lead to a lack of appreciation. Three days, while quick, would be just right for Nicole and the others.
As evening approached, they prepared to leave.
The estate was quiet, filled with the pleasant scent of flowers, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
"Do you know anything about the new maid?"
Zhao Lun inhaled the faint floral aroma, enjoying the rare tranquility, and asked in a gentle, unhurried tone.