By the time Voldemort had eaten his fill, it was already light outside.
"Wormtail, next I would like you to accompany me back to the United Kingdom. What are your thoughts?"
Wormtail fell silent for a moment, then said cautiously:
"Master, I'm wanted by the Ministry of Magic. Accompanying you back would bring you trouble."
Voldemort's voice carried a chill:
"So you wish to abandon me, my friend. Are you worried that Voldemort, as he is now, will become a burden to you?"
Watching Voldemort raise his wand slightly, Wormtail suddenly raised his voice, making it somewhat shrill and grating:
"No, Master, no! I'm willing to accompany you back..."
Voldemort slowly lowered his wand:
"There's no need to worry, either. We aren't going straight to the United Kingdom. Along the way, we need to find out what the situation over there is like now.
"And I believe that under your care, I will certainly regain my strength very soon. Nowhere will be safer for you than by my side. Do you understand what I mean, my old friend?"
Wormtail said respectfully:
"I understand, Master."
Voldemort nodded:
"As long as you take good care of me, I will let bygones be bygones. I need a new plan, but I also need some information. You can make good use of those animal friends of yours.
"Now, pack up. We're going out into the world right away. Information won't come knocking if we stay here."
Wormtail was silent for a moment before saying:
"Master, you can wait here while I go out to gather information..."
"No need. Just take me with you. As you know, I need you to feed me every few hours. Besides, you're safer with me around, aren't you?"
In the end, Wormtail walked out of the cave carrying the