CHAPTER TWENTY SIX

BRIEFINGS

Hermione motioned for the new comers and the four men to take a seat, and a few more chairs were transfigured from other furniture. There was unease in the room as the men faced off. Both Crabbe and Goyle senior were very fit men, just as their sons were becoming. Glasses of firewhiskey were placed in front of everyone except the four muggles.

"Dampy got to the cellars and get a bottle of muggle whiskey please." two pops indicated that he was back with the bottle. Four glasses were poured from it. Both bottles were left in the middle of the table.

Severus took his seat and the lead on the meeting. Everyone generally deferred to him when it came to matters of security, being a double agent gave him a unique view of things.

"Bane, Joker, Knight and Aces this is Crabbe, Goyle senior they are Lucius's security and then there is Crabbe and Goyle junior who act as security for Draco. As you are now introduced, I believe that you need to know some things about our lives. You will give yourselves away instantly when you flinch with the use of magic or seeing magical beings such as the elves. You will also need a set of our clothing. Again the muggle suits give you away in an instance." Severus took a mouthful of his drink but before he could continue he was interrupted.

"All due respect what does this have to do with protecting our charge." Bane insisted. "And who are you?"

"I am Severus Snape, I am a potion's master and according to the ministry Lord Prince. Beside me is Lord Lucius Malfoy, you know your charge and beside her is her intended, Lord Black beside him is Lord Potter. You will hear mention of 'the Golden Trio' your charge is one of their members as so is Lord Potter.." he introduced. "We were under the impression you knew this already."

"Bloody hell boss their a bunch of toffs." Aces piped up. And then was quietened when Joker smacked him across the head.

"She's the one paying us git, learn to keep the mouth closed." Joker admonished.

Sniggers came from the wizards while Hermione looked on in amusement.

Clearing his throat Severus kept going a small sneer gracing his lips. "Yes and that being said, she also is still attending boarding school which you will be situated at after new year. The threat is a one Ronald Billus Weasley, the remaining member of the 'Golden Trio' and his sister Ginerva Molly Weasley. They both found out about your mistress' identity and parentage before it was made public. The delay in releasing that information was partly due to security. Both of these people strongly believe that Hermione should be grateful to be marrying a pure blood family such as their own. That being said a bit of background is that the Weasley's live in a shamble of a house on Catchapole Street. And the property is called the Burrow. They are dirt poor and heavily in debt. There is only one income and the matriarch is another problem. Believing that Ron should be the one marrying the mistress. Both younger Weasleys have morals of an alley cat and have no problem in crimes of opportunity, as apposed to passion. Remember this, as Hermione cant be left alone at anytime. Except her own common room with Draco. Both Draco and Hermione are head students so they share an apartment at the school. Up to date so far?"

The group of muggles nodded. After Bane spoke up, "If infiltration is so important why will we be standing around and stalking our 'mistress' as you called her?"

"Here an employer is referred to as a mistress or master." Draco piped up and answered the unasked question.

"Well that's good to know but the question remains." It was Jokers turn to be inquisitive.

"The headmistress has 'mentored' so to say, the golden trio since they started school and being their head of house she has seen that you four have a house in Hogsmead, the village that is connected to the school. It is a fifteen minute walk to the school. Not far. She couldn't allow you to remain on grounds because the protections around the school's castle wont let you see the estate. In summoning you one of us will collect you and return you. Speaking of which you three have you licences don't you?" Severus turned to they younger wizards.

Vin and Greg's hands shot up and Draco nodded. Due to the year on the run Harry and Hermione didn't.