Rabastan watched with an unnatural amount of attention as the assorted invitees began to arrive, saying little in the way of greeting to any of them but flashing an ever gushing Slughorn and small smile, which, upon closer inspection, would have been seen to spread no further than his lips. Now was not the time for nostalgic anecdotes or flattery and, as he counted the assembled party, Rabastan could only hope Lucius Malfoy would bring enough people. His task would eliminate him and another Death Eater from the proceedings, and it was slowly beginning to pray on the young mans mind, that there was a chance the Death Eaters could be outnumbered.

"As soon as Minerva arrives, I do believe we will be ready to begin?"

He nodded slightly to his old Headmaster, glad to hear that McGonogall would be the final arrival. Putting thoughts of Malfoy to the back of his mind for the minute, Rabastan eyed his drink before downing half of it, its harsh taste catching in his throat. He hadnt anticipated two Aurors, lest of all those two Aurors, however there was nothing he could do about it now. A final glance around the table and an inquiring look from Dumbledore informed Rabastan that the meeting could now begin.

I believe everyone is here. As you all know the Ministry are concerned about security after recent events and for the past few months Hit Wizards have been stationed at Hogwarts.

This introduction was really for Slughorns benefit. It was clear he knew little about the purpose of the meeting, and had Rabastans mind not had bigger things to worry about then his old Head of Houses comments could have actually offended him. One day Slughorn would realise that Rabastan wasnt the respectable Slug Club member any more. Sadly today wasnt that day, for appearances had to be kept and as far as the assembled party were concerned everyone around the table was on the same side. Still, at least Rabastan could live knowing that his actions that evening were for someone elses benefit entirely.

The idea of tonight is basically to asses this security. I believe, he glanced at the two Aurors, so very different in their attitude, that the Auror office have some questions regarding the level of security, and as we are discussing Hogwarts, this time his gaze moved to the four staff members, his mind mentally assessing their abilities with a wand without even realising it, it was only appropriate for the staff to have their say. They do, after all, know the school better than most.

He shifted slightly, feeling very scrutinised in his current position as the sole Hit Wizard representative.

Our deepst fear is not that we are inadequate
It is that we are powerful beyond measure

As we wind on down the road
Our shadows taller than our soul