Chapter 11 The Gala

When Hermione and Snape arrived at Disney World Headquarters, Buena Vista, Hermione could not help but be impressed. Unlike the typical austere corporate office building of a mega-corporation, Disney gave one the impression of whimsy from the start. It was like walking through Alice’s looking glass, or a Muggle-born witch’s first visit to Diagon Alley.

For this evening’s gala, guests were honoured by the red carpet celebrity treatment as they exited their vehicles. Lights, camera, action – the only thing missing was the paparazzi, which Hermione was grateful for. Numerous Disney characters were on hand performing various tricks and entertaining the guests in general.

After their driver opened the car door, Goofy held out a giant gloved-hand to assist Hermione from the vehicle. Snape, in turn, glared so hard at the character that he stumbled backwards, almost losing his footing. Hermione was forced to turn her head to hide her fit of giggles.

“Minerva will pay for this,” Snape hissed in Hermione’s ear as they enter the front doors.

Once inside, Hermione took a proffered glass of champagne. Snape declined. They were soon approached by a gentleman, whose appearance and demeanour screamed CPA. “Hermione Granger, may I introduce Patrick Weathersby. He heads the Auditing Department and has been my primary point of contact,” Snape offered.

“My pleasure, Ms Granger. Mr Eisner has asked me to make sure you have everything you need this evening. He would like you to join him for dinner after the presentation,” Mr Weathersby announced in a very nasal twang.

“Tell Mr Eisner that it would be our pleasure,” Snape replied.

After Weathersby left, Hermione asked, “Doesn’t it seem odd that at an event of this magnitude, Michael Eisner wants to dine with us?”

“Indeed,” Snape replied.

At that moment, the guests were ushered into a room, which resembled an indoor amphitheatre. After welcomes and addresses from various corporate officers, Michael Eisner took the stage.

“Ladies and gentleman, it is my pleasure to introduce you to the future of Disney’s global corporation – Asia.”

For the next 45 minutes, the audience was wowed by a multimedia production, including live ethnic dancers from throughout Asia. By the end of the show, there was no doubt that the Walt Disney Corporation had a strong vision for their product placement in Asia.

“I’m convinced that this company won’t be happy until every child’s first words are Mickey Mouse,” Severus spoke darkly in a low voice that only Hermione could pick up. “Whether illegal or not, it certainly is criminal.”

“Like it or not, lots of people enjoy the Disney product, Severus,” Hermione replied, earning a dark scowl from Snape.

Exiting the presentation room, Hermione and Snape were met by a waiter who brought them to the Eisner table. Dinner was an elegant affair, and though they were not seated directly next to Mr Eisner, he did manage to pay them some share of his attention.

“Severus, I hope our staff have provided you with everything you need?” Eisner enquired. Before Snape had a chance to answer, Eisner continued. “Who is your lovely guest? I’m certainly glad that Severus convinced you to join us tonight.”

Snape introduced Hermione as a former colleague, and the chitchat continued. Eisner was skilled at making everyone seem important, being very attentive to each person, but at the same time not saying anything of real worth. In other words, he was a consummate politician.

Dessert consisted of a decadent chocolate torte, but Hermione was careful to not over-indulge in anything. She wanted to make sure she kept her wits about her. As the band began to change from dinner to dance music, Snape decided to make his move.

“During my previous visits to this location, I was quite impressed by the art galleries. Would you mind if I took Hermione on a bit of a tour?” he asked Eisner.

“Of course not. Collecting art for the company is one of my true joys. Would you like me to round up Weathersby to give you a guide?” inquired Eisner.

“That won’t be necessary,” Snape replied. “I’ve become rather familiar with this site over the past week.”

Snape rose from the table and held out his hand for Hermione. “This I could get used to,” said that little voice inside his head again.

“What do you have in mind?” asked Hermione as she found herself walking through a cavernous hallway by Snape’s side.

“There are several art galleries located throughout the building. I’m going to find you a secure location where it won’t seem odd if you are found alone. If you need to, you can tell them I had to use the facilities, and if things get really strange just use the Disney Dollar. Try to give me as much time as possible, and I will be gone no longer than necessary.”

As Snape turned to leave, Hermione called “Severus, good luck and please be careful.”

He turned back to face Hermione, taking in the concern on her face, and then he was gone.