It was late, and the coffee shop was closing. Rowling hurriedly gathered her manuscript and left.
In the presidential suite of the hotel beside the coffee shop, Pochis, who had been watching through the floor-to-ceiling window, quickly turned to look at Voldemort, who was standing by the desk.
Voldemort was bent over a desk covered with two hefty books, busily working on something.
"Sir, she's come out."
Pochis's words made Voldemort turn toward him. In his eyes, Pochis saw emptiness and thoughtfulness.
"Whoosh."
Abou, who had been sitting silently on the sofa, suddenly stood up. At last, the movement roused Voldemort from his absorption in the books.
"What time is it?"
Voldemort asked as he got up and joined Abou by the window.
"Ten thirty, closing time for the coffee shop," Pochis said.
Voldemort nodded, his eyes already following Rowling as she hurried away.
"Keep an eye on her, Pochis. Give her support and help her focus more of her energy on her books," Voldemort instructed him.
"Yes, sir," Pochis replied.
"Is she really worth this much attention?" Abou asked, looking puzzled. "I mean, does she really need a wizard to protect her around the clock?"
"Of course, Senior Abhu. This is a crucial part of our [Wall-breaking Plan]," Voldemort said, the corners of his mouth lifting.
The [Wall-breaking Plan] was a scheme Voldemort had devised to overturn the [International Statute of Secrecy].
His focus was quietly shifting elsewhere.
Abou glanced at Voldemort and saw him standing there with a proud smile.
It confirmed Abou's suspicion that [Glory of the Pure-blood] was no longer Voldemort's most important plan.
Breaking the [International Statute of Secrecy] was the ultimate goal of this king.
"Forgive my ignorance, Dark Lord, but I really can't see what she can do to help with this."
Abou