[Barty, searching for a father figure he actually wants to accept and he is actually accepting by projects quite a lot onto their Lord, something that Voldemort is without a doubt more aware of than Barty is himself, feeding it by entrusting him with knowledge about his own father that most aren't aware of. To Barty it's a sign of their special connection. Cunning and intelligent as he is, it's almost as if he chooses to be blind to his chosen Lord's manipulation of him. Delusions can be strong enough to make for convictions.]

I had no doubt about your abilities in that area.

[Not quite a smile but a flicker of tongue. He cares little for Rodolphus, looking down at him much as he looks down on most anyone. Another weakness of his, the awareness and exaggeration of his own greatness.]

There's no need to suppose, Bella. I am the stronger wizard. I doubt you mind the truth. Or the boldness.