"Master, then I should leave now." Snape took a deep breath, straightened up, and spoke.
Voldemort pulled himself from his imaginings and gave an instinctive hum. "Oh?"
Snape explained, "Even if Dumbledore is willing to trust me, I believe I still need to guard against Barty Crouch Jr.'s testimony."
"If Barty Crouch Jr. reveals enough information, Dumbledore may change his mind and begin to suspect me."
Voldemort's tone carried a trace of mockery, as though he had heard an especially amusing joke. "Ah... that is exactly what Dumbledore would do!"
"He always uses his narrow-minded thoughts and limited vision to deny everything that does not suit his wishes."
"He is also easily swayed by outside influences, becoming inexplicably wary of those with exceptional talent because of rumors spread out of fear."
Snape bowed once more. "Master, your analysis of Dumbledore is extremely thorough!"
"To prevent such a thing from happening, I should return to Hogwarts immediately and do my best to keep Dumbledore from suspecting me."
"A very wise course of action!" Voldemort nodded. "Severus, you truly have never disappointed me. Not in the past... and not now!"
"Since you wish to return as soon as possible, I can offer you some assistance." He raised his Wand toward Snape, flicking his wrist and tapping it lightly.
"You may go now!" He withdrew his Wand. "I have lifted some of your restrictions. What could be faster than Apparating on the spot?"
He rarely granted such privileges to his servants, but at a time like this, Snape deserved it.
"Thank you for your help, Master!" Snape gave a deep bow, then vanished in a whirlpool with a loud Pop!
After Snape left, Carcas truly could not contain himself, and the corners of his mouth curled upward slightly.
He was deeply looking forward