The Potion Mistress & the Half-Blood Prince

Chapter 45: The Forest Holds The Secret

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the people or places that belong to the wonderful world of Harry Potter, as they belong to J.K. Rowling. The OC (Katherine) is entirely my own.

Severus landed in a cloud of black smoke within a small clearing of the Forbidden Forest. He knew exactly where he was. To his left was a ridge; a high ridge that was void of trees and overlooked Hogsmeade and the Shrieking Shack. To his right, a trail that led back into the old Acromantula nest.

He had already lowered the wards around the school, for he knew that they would be impatient to get in. They as in the Death Eaters; and the Dark Lord.

"Snape," a voice hissed behind him. Severus turned around with wand raised, and watched a slender figure emerge from the darkness of the trees. It would have been hard to see the woman, if it weren't for her pale skin; as her black hair and clothes blended into the night.

"Bellatrix," Severus replied lowering his wand slightly. "Where is everyone?"

"Next clearing over," Bellatrix said, walking towards he and playing with her wand. "The Dark Lord has not arrived yet, but he wants us to scan the perimeter of the forest and secure the area."

"Very well," Severus said, as Bella turned and disappeared into the trees again. He followed her through the darkness, until they came to a much larger opening. It looked as through most of the Death Eaters had already arrived, but a Severus scanned the area, he noticed one was missing.

Katherine.

"Listen up," Bellatrix hissed. "The Dark Lord wants us to check the area. We'll go in groups of two in order not to be ambushed." Severus was only half listening to the dark witch ramble on her orders. He had caught Narcissa out of the corner of his eye and slowly made his way over to her.

"Narcissa," Severus greeted the elder witch, as Bellatrix started rambling off groups and where they were suppose to head. "I need a favor."

"What can I do for you Severus," Narcissa whispered, glancing up at the dark haired wizard.

"I need you to..."

"Snape," Bellatrix said, interrupting his conversation with Narcissa. "Where's Dumbledore?"

"I'm not sure," Severus snarled at her. "Last I saw her was in the castle. She might have followed me, but ended up in a different section of the forest."

"Fine," Bellatrix spat. "Since she has yet to arrive, Lucius will go with you to patrol the area around Hogwarts' main gates."

"What!" Lucius sneered from behind his sister-in-law. "Why must I follow Severus. Why not you go with him."

"I am to secure the Shrieking Shack," Bellatrix hissed. "The Dark Lord plans to set up Headquarters there during the takeover. You will go with him. NOW!" Lucius said nothing, as he threw her a nasty look before stalking off in the direction of the gates. Bellatrix glared at the blonde wizard before turning and announcing another group.

"Narcissa," Severus said is hushed tones. "Find Katherine for me. She became ill this morning after an allergic reaction to a bottle of nettle that exploded in her classroom. Once you find her, bring and keep her here."

"Of course," Narcissa said, but before Severus could turn away, she grabbed a hold of his sleve. "Severus, where is Draco?"

"In the castle," Severus said. "He's with Horace. He'll be fine."

"Thank you Severus," Cissy said quietly, as she let go of his robes and watched him disappear into the trees.

Severus stalked off after Lucius, and found him in the same small clearing that he had flown into from the castle.