Narcissa put her arm around Draco and guided him back into the house. Lucius following behind. Dolohov and Fenrir were on duty, disposing of the bodies, while Bellatrix started looting them of their possessions. Hermione had turned to leave, but was stopped by a hand on her shoulder, colder then ice. "not you. I wish to speak with you" came the Dark lord's voice. She nodded and turned, facing him, but her eyes on the ground. "yes my Lord". Her voice was shaken, his very aura was terrifyingly powerful. "walk with me" he said before walking away from the others, into the large gardens. Hermione followed close behind. "I have been observing from a distance Miss Granger. You have made considerable progress since your arrival. Bellatrix was right about you. I would like to give a formal apology." Hermione was walking aside him but didn't dare step ahead a single pace. "my Lord?" She was scared but noticed a genuine care in his tone of voice. "I had originally planned for Bellatrix to lure you here, hold you as a hostage, for want of a better word and wait for Potter and his misfits to come for you, to make an attack. Bellatrix's intentions weren't initially true, and therefore deceived you, and I had assumed you to be nothing more then bait, but you have come a long way in a short space of time and I would like to offer you the opportunity to work as one of my formal board. Attend meetings, give an opinion, offer a plan and contribute actively to our cause". Sencerity in his voice as he spoke.