An Explanation That Was Absurd Yet Somewhat Reasonable, Editor-in-Chief of The Quibbler

The next day, Aaron woke up in bed.

"System, sign in."

"The host has signed in at Dean Forest and received 1 Magic Point."

"So stingy." Aaron curled his lip in disdain.

"The host's Thoughtform has signed in at Hogwarts and received 5 Magic Points."

"That makes six in total. I'm back to square one overnight!" Aaron rubbed his forehead regretfully. "I was still too impulsive last night. I accidentally spent all my Magic Points."

"Please do not concern yourself with such details," the system consoled him. "Once the host obtains the Rat Talisman, Ox Talisman, Dragon Talisman, Snake Talisman, and Monkey Talisman, you will have collected all twelve talismans."

"That's five thousand Magic Points!" Aaron rolled his eyes irritably. "Even if you're dangling a carrot in front of me, at least make it convincing!"

"After collecting all twelve talismans, the host will additionally receive the demonic energy of the Fire Demon and unlock the corresponding demonic energy shop."

Aaron: ...

Fine! That was a very convincing carrot—just slightly too big.

Leaving his room, Aaron transformed back into the venerable 'Gandalf.'

Harry and his two companions came out one after another. After breakfast, they gathered in the hall.

"Even if that symbol is our only clue so far, do we really have to go see Mr. Lovegood?"

"We're already on our way, Ron," Hermione said impatiently. "Luna will be home for Christmas soon. We can ask her then."

"Harry, has your Golden Snitch changed at all?" 'Gandalf' asked.

Harry froze for a moment. He had nearly forgotten he still had such a thing.

He took out the Golden Snitch and used the Levitation Charm to suspend it in the air, then his eyes widened.

A line of tiny words had appeared on its surface: I open at the close.

"What