"Minerva..," Severus replied with a nod, acknowledging his fellow HoH. "Headmaster," he said as he took charge of the weary refugees. "We no doubt apologize for the lateness of this meeting, but I sure you understand the necessity of it as I explained in my missive."

"Of course Severus," Dumbledore replied, his usual tone marred by the gravity of the situation. "Please, do sit down," he added, scanning the group as he conjured up a few extra chairs. As he waited for them to sit he went on. "Now we must discuss any future actions that need to be taken."