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So sorry about the delay, guys. Long story short, shit happens, but life as we know it must go on. Also this story, along with many others, is currently under revision so any unforeseen plot holes can be sufficiently filled. Please bear with me.

Without further ado, here is the next chapter.

Chapter 6: An Unlikely Truce! The Formation of the Perfect Pair?

Present, Saturday, September 5, 1998

Kagome hummed as she looked over her class rosters, focusing on one listing in particular. She woke up bright and early as she always did. She was thankful that today was Saturday, and there were no classes scheduled on the weekends. She would have joined her two demonic colleagues this morning, but, like all felines, they preferred to sleep in whenever possible. Instead, Kagome chose to be more productive and prepare her weekly lesson plans. Everything was going well until she hit an unexpected snag.

Let's see… she thought, absently tapping her lip with her pencil, I have three students in Hufflepuff, three in Ravenclaw, three Gryffindors, and one Slytherin.

With an even number of students, it should have been easy to separate this section of her history class into pairs, but it wasn't that simple. Kagome already realized that anything involving her 8th year class would be. The only kink in the process was Draco Malfoy. She didn't think it was fair, but, based on what she saw in class, she had to be careful who she chose as his partner. She still didn't know exactly what role he played in the war. She only knew he was a Death Eater according to what Filch said.

No matter how you look at it, it's practically him against the other nine students. Who would be willing to work with him?

After a few more minutes of staring at the list, Kagome sighed and pushed the entire contents of her desk as far away from her as possible. As of now, she didn't have all the information she needed to proceed. More importantly, she needed to get out of this room or she would go completely insane. Kagome stood and stretched her arms high above her head before grabbing a clean T-shirt and a pair of yoga pants from her wardrobe. A good morning run was exactly what she needed to help clear her head.

After she changed, Kagome pulled her hair into a sloppy bun and left her room, carefully closing the portrait behind her and heading for the nearest exit to the castle. By her count, it was 8:30.

Let's see. Should I do a lap around the lake or the Quidditch pitch?

Kagome furrowed her brow when she considered the sheer, intimidating size of Hogwarts Lake. She decided to tackle that feat when she had a running buddy to keep her company. She quickly set her course for the large wooden stadium, passing by Hagrid's humble home on the way. The giant was outside hauling half a dozen dead ferrets over his shoulder. He noticed her when she slowed to an eventual stop in front of his pumpkin patch.

"Higurashi," he greeted her, "Good morning to ya!"

"Hello, Hagrid!" she replied, grinning, "So what are you up to?"

"Just getting some breakfast for the hippogriffs' chicks. They love their ferrets. How about yourself?"

"Just going for a run to clear my head," she answered, shifting her weight on her feet, "Wanna join me?"

Hagrid shook his head. "Naw, but what's on your mind? Nothing too troubling I hope."

Kagome pursed her lips together in thought. Hagrid had been a part of the Hogwarts staff far longer than her, so he likely had the information she needed.

At any rate, there's no harm in asking.

"Not exactly," she said, "but do you know anything about a student named Draco Malfoy?"

Hagrid's demeanor hardened, a sharp change from the gentle person Kagome was accustomed to.

"Why do you want to know about him?" he asked, "Did he do something to you?"

"Absolutely not! Malfoy-kun has not caused me any trouble at all," Kagome insisted, "I just wanted to know if you knew anyone who he is friendly with outside of Slytherin."

Convinced by her sincere words, Hagrid relaxed and shook his shaggy head. "That is a very hard question. You might not know this yet, but Slytherins don't take to most people outside of their own house."

"I see. Maybe friendly wasn't the right word to use. I need someone who would be willing to work with him for a project in my class until the end of the school year."

Hagrid was silent for several long seconds before he finally answered, "A student in one of your classes, yeah? Have you thought about asking Harry?"

"Potter-kun?" Kagome curiously repeated.

Hagrid nodded. "They fought during their younger years, but Harry did speak on behalf of the Malfoy family when they were on trial after the war to testify that they changed sides. Does that help you at all?"

"It does," she answered with a curt nod, "Thanks, Hagrid-senpai. I really appreciate the talk, but I gotta run."

Kagome gave Hagrid a wave over her shoulder as she jogged away deep in thought.

So Malfoy-kun was involved in the war on the opposing side, but it seems like Potter-kun was convinced of his change of heart. He doesn't seem like the type of person who would give someone that kind of support unless he truly meant it, she mused, It might be a long shot, but he's the only option I have now.

She shrugged her shoulders and continued her run. She already promised herself she would think about that much, much later.

-O0o0O-

"Alright, everyone," Harry announced as he called the Quidditch tryouts to order. There was an understandably large turnout to make this year's team. He hoped he would be able to weed out the ones who showed up for a peek at the Chosen One from the serious players before the day was out.

"We will begin by testing your flying skills," he continued, "Everyone divide into groups of five and begin when I give you the signal."

The first group Harry approached was composed of second year students who looked like they were fresh out of Madam Hooch's flying lessons. Harry took a deep breath and counted down for them to hover above the ground. Of the few who actually did leave the ground, one boy launched his broom into the air, landing flat on his bottom as it sailed over the stadium seats.

"Sorry, Harry! I didn't mean to!"

"No problem. I'll take care of it," Harry said and turned to Ginny, "Take over until I get back."

"Roger."

Harry mounted his Firebolt and flew over stands to retrieve the wayward broomstick. Once he was on the other side, he spotted an unfortunate victim of the incident standing with her back to him and a hand rubbing the top of her head. Harry sighed and dismounted with the intent to apologize. He didn't expect to have any casualties outside of the pitch, but it couldn't be helped now.

"Excuse me," he called out, "Are you okay?"

"Oh, I'm fine," she answered as she bent down to pick up the broom, "I just wasn't expecting it." When she finished speaking, she turned to him wearing a pleasant expression.

"Professor, it's you," Harry said once he could see her fully, quietly gulping at what he saw.

Higurashi happened to be wearing a pair of black form fitting pants and matching sports bra, breathing heavily with her skin shiny with sweat. It was more than enough to catch someone's eye. She used a balled up T-shirt in her fist to wipe her brow, awkwardly grinning when she noticed Harry staring.

"I forgot the grab a towel before I left the castle and had to improvise," she explained with a shrug, "I bet I look pretty silly using this."

"Oh! Not at all!" Harry exclaimed. Higurashi didn't seem convinced as she held out the broomstick to Harry.

"I believe this is yours," she said.

Harry nodded as he took it. "Sorry about that. Quidditch tryouts, yeah. I'm the captain of the Gryffindor team."

"Cool! I had no idea," Higurashi cried, "I've always liked watching Quidditch, but I've never been able to fly a broom myself."

"Really? So you don't like flying then?" he asked. For some reason, Harry felt very disappointed.

Higurashi snorted a laugh as she shook her head. "I didn't mean it like that. I absolutely love flying! I just can't do it on my own. At least, I can't without a little help."

"Oh," Harry commented, far too relieved by Higurashi's explanation to question what she meant.

"You should probably get back to practice. I don't want to keep you any longer than I already have, bucho," she said as she prepared to leave.

"Right. I'll see you in class."

As Harry began to mount his Firebolt, Higurashi called out before he could get too far.

"Potter-kun?" she asked.

"Yes, Professor?"

Higurashi opened her mouth to speak but quickly closed it, choosing not to address what was on her mind.

"Never mind. It's not that important. Good luck with your tryouts."

"Are you sure?" Harry asked, confused. The petite professor had no qualms about speaking her mind so far, and he wondered what changed so suddenly.

Higurashi nodded, smiling. "Like I said, I don't wanna keep you. I'll see you later."

With that, Higurashi resumed her jog around the stadium before Harry could say anything else. He lingered for several seconds before he flew back to the field. He noted Higurashi was notably fit, more so than he expected for her small frame. Her form was toned and taut, but, unlike the other athletic girls he knew, she was still very feminine and soft. For some reason, he was glad he caught her off guard like he did when she was normally so composed.

Blushing at his train of thought, Harry rushed back to his team. His musings had the potential to take a very dangerous turn, and it would be wise for him to stop before it got out of hand. When he landed inside the pitch, Harry returned the broom to the second year and continued conducting the tryouts. Another thing he subconsciously noted was the answer to Seamus's question was definitely D.

-O0o0O-

Draco's lips were pressed into a thin, tight line as Blaise followed behind him. He thought he would give up after he left the castle, but he had no such luck.

"Do we really have to go so far from the castle? The weather is absolutely dreadful," Blaise complained. Draco's teeth clenched, but he didn't let it show.

"We don't have to do anything. I only wanted to get some fresh air. There was never an open invitation for anyone to join me, least of all you."

Truthfully, Draco was never one for leaving the castle either, but most of its chambers were riddled with unpleasant memories, ones he wasn't ready to face—alone or otherwise. That more than the stares and whispers from his peers made him feel unwelcome. Before the school year began, his mother suggested he attend Durmstrang instead. The atmosphere there was considerably friendlier toward former Death Eaters and their affiliates. However, Draco still had his Malfoy pride for whatever it was worth. He wouldn't be chased away.

Draco grunted when Blaise abruptly slung an arm over his shoulder looking at him with an insufferable grin. Perhaps it wasn't too late for a transfer to Bulgaria.

"Have you been listening to me?" Blaise questioned.

"Not a word."

Apparently, Blaise was undeterred by his response and ignored it, focusing his attention elsewhere. He followed his gaze to see the object of his inattention, rolling his eyes when he saw what it was. Suddenly, Blaise picked up the pace and pulled Draco behind him with renewed vigor.

"Lovely morning for a walk, don't you think?"

"What happened to the dreadful weather?"

Blaise grinned deviously. "As luck would have it, sudden changes in the scenery have made the ambiance considerably sunnier, yeah?"

"Whatever." Draco decided to resign himself to what Blaise would undoubtedly drag him into. The two stopped just before the trail they were on forked.

"Professor, good morning!" Blaise called out.

Higurashi came to a stop and turned in their direction, smiling brightly as she waved to them.

"Good morning, Zabini-kun and Malfoy-kun!" she greeted them as she approached, "I thought the only ones outside at this hour were the Quidditch team and myself."

"But you have been proven wrong!" Blaise replied, "Surely everyone can enjoy such a lovely day."

Higurashi rolled his eyes and placed her hand on her hip at the same time Draco let out an unconvinced snort.

"Yeah, lovely," she dryly quipped, "I so love this European weather."

"Well, the day has been brightened by your appearance, Professor. Even the sunniest summer day pales in comparison to you," he stated as smooth as ever, but Higurashi wouldn't be taken in.

"Zabini-kun, you should really put more thought into what you say especially those pickup lines of yours. Girls will think you're too forward."

Draco turned his head to side and murmured under his breath, "You should know that will only encourage him." He didn't intend for anyone to hear him, but Higurashi did.

"Thanks for the heads up, Malfoy-kun, but I can handle myself just fine," Higurashi said, her tone light and playful, "Unfortunately, I'm ready to head back in. If you want to join me for my next run, get up a little earlier next time. Until then, I'll see you around."

After giving them a quick wave, Higurashi began the jog back to the castle with Blaise's eyes following her every move.

"I'd call that progress, wouldn't you agree?" he said as he watched her.

"What are you talking about?" Draco asked.

"Weren't you paying attention? She flirted back."

"Really? I'd say she was playing you for her own amusement. Don't let your attraction to her make you thick."

"It's all part of the game. It wouldn't be fun if she didn't play with me."

Draco rolled his eyes. "So now that you've gotten that bit of sunshine, mind if you leave me be? I'd hate for you to lose her so early in the game."

"But, Draco my friend, the day is still young. The sun won't set so soon."

Draco sighed. He just couldn't catch a break.

-O0o0O-

Mimiru quietly grumbled as she and her sister walked down Hogwarts' stone corridors. She usually slept in passed noon on the weekend, but Mayaru's presence roused her much earlier than she was accustomed to. By the time they were both up and about, it was nearly 11 o' clock.

Normally, Mimiru enjoyed Mayaru's company, but this assignment put her out of her element. When she was out of her element, Mimiru was dubbed the very definition of "catty". If anyone called her something more unsavory, she replied with gnashing teeth and hellish, bone searing flames. And, worst of all, when she was out of her element, Mayaru loved nothing more than teasing her. If they weren't walking among mixed company, a brawl would have long since broken out.

"So this is Hogwarts Castle," Mayaru commented, breaking Mimiru from her troubled thoughts, "I have to say my impression of it is rather mixed."

"If you don't like it, go home," Mimiru muttered under her breath. Mayaru could clearly hear her with her demonic senses but chose to ignore her.

"But I suppose it has a certain charm," she continued, "I think the right word is 'rustic'."

"Just go home."

"It's hard to believe a war ended in a place like this just months ago by simply looking around."

"Go home."

"But the layout is very confusing. Shouldn't we have reached the dining hall by now?"

"Go home."

"Or perhaps you're simply not familiar with it yet. I sense Kagome nearby. She should be of more help than you." Mayaru chuckled.

"I smell her as well. It seems that she is still sticking to her usual routine despite the relocation."

With little hesitation, Mayaru dodged Mimiru's fist producing a cloud of dust as it became embedded in the stone wall behind them.

"Go home," Mimiru said, unfazed as she withdrew her uninjured hand from the wall and shook off the rubble. She paid no attention to the passing students who stopped to investigate the sudden commotion.

"You're so scary, but is that really all you have to say to me?" Mayaru asked, smirking. She continued without waiting for an answer. "Picking fights with me like always. It seems you are sticking to your usual routine as well."

Mimiru didn't reply and slipped into a fighting stance with practiced ease. Mayaru's grin widened allowing a brief peak at her elongated incisors as she mimicked her sibling's posture. The surrounding congregation backed away and began to whisper in not so hushed tones.

"Are they really going to fight out here in the open?"

"Looks like it."

"But that's the new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, yeah?"

"Yup. Her name's Aisakawa, the one with the long hair on the right." Mayaru grinned at her younger sister, pleased that her growing reputation preceded her. She was not so amused.

"Are you sure? I was certain she was the other one?"

"Me too. I saw her yesterday after class and thought she cut it all off." Mimiru's eyebrow twitched. She was certain that misunderstanding was cleared up long before now.

"No, that's her twin sister. I hear she works in their government. That's why she came here."

"Really? But they're both so young!"

"But so is Potter! And he's absolutely brilliant!" No conversation about powerful wizards and mages in the last century was not complete without mentioning his name.

"They must be from a family of magical prodigies!"

"Awesome! Completely wicked!"

While the bystanders continued to prattle, Mimiru and Mayaru relaxed. The aggression from before was steadily evaporating.

"It's hard to concentrate with so many spectators," Mayaru quipped.

"Indeed. The atmosphere is completely ruined," Mimiru replied. After a short, thoughtful pause, she said. "Perhaps it would be better if we quiet them."

"That's a rather ruthless sentiment," Mayaru stated though she knew Mimiru was only joking, "You shouldn't speak so freely. I wonder if any of the walls can understand us."

"Hold it!" Kagome shouted as she broke through the crowd and dashed between the two sisters before they could engage.

"Just what do you think you are doing?" she scolded, "Stop this nonsense right now! Your behavior is in no way professional!"

Mimiru and Mayaru lowered their arms and returned to nonthreatening postures. The former chose to turn away and silently fold her arms over her chest while Mayaru wasted no time asking for forgiveness.

"Our apologies," she said, "It was never our intention to lose ourselves so thoroughly."

Kagome sighed and shook her head. "I don't know which one of you makes that apology more unbelievable. The one who said it or the one who didn't say a word."

A slow, catty grin stretched across Mayaru's face. "I suppose you have rightful cause to be so suspicious."

"You should have gone home," Mimiru dryly retorted.

Kagome took a quick survey of their surroundings, looking for any potentially troublesome onlookers. The crowd thinned considerably upon her arrival leaving only a few stranglers still inching away from the scene.

"Let's head to my room," she proposed, "I'll figure out what to do with the two of you once I shower and change."

Mayaru hummed as she latched onto Kagome's arm, and the duo began walking away and left Mimiru behind. She asked, "Would you like a hand with that? The scent of your musk preceded the sight of you."

Kagome halfheartedly glared at her. She couldn't smell that bad when Mayaru was willing to get so close to her even if it was only to rile her younger sibling. Yōkai always had a particular fascination with her scent—whether they liked it or not.

"Coming, Mimi-chan?" Kagome teasingly called out over her shoulder. She might as well get in on the fun too as long as Mayaru was here.

Mimiru rolled her eyes but followed her two colleagues, taking up the spot on Kagome's unoccupied side. Her right eyebrow twitched when she heard the whispers from the students that fled out of sight but not earshot. The things children came up with these days were positively ridiculous. Then again, her and her sister's actions certainly were no help for it. They might need some damage control if it got too out of hand.

Hn. Too much effort, she decided. The hole in the wall would be fixed long before morning, and the rumors would be no more than amplified words.

By the time they arrived in Kagome's room and Kagome was freshly showered and sweet smelling, the trio sat down to a late breakfast promptly delivered by a few house elves. When they were nearly finished, they began to discuss their work.

"So what do you think?" Kagome asked after she explained her pairing dilemma.

"It's hard to say without more details. Have you considered asking another teacher for information?" Mayaru asked.

Kagome shook her head. "It's kind of a touchy subject, and I haven't had much luck asking questions amongst the other teachers. Besides, I only asked Hagrid-senpai about it on a whim. I would have asked Potter-kun too if I didn't lose my nerve."

"That may be, but it's still not a bad route to pursue," Mayaru remarked and turned to Mimiru,

"What do you know about Potter and Malfoy?"

Mimiru paused in thought, her chopsticks still in the midair. After plopping a dollop of rice into her mouth, she replied, "Not much. The first encounter I witnessed between them was not under ideal circumstances. They were particularly combative during the practical exam but no more than I expected given the situation. After that, they avoided each other whenever I saw them."

"That doesn't seem good," Kagome mused, "Not good at all."

"I have only seen them for a few class periods," Mimiru added, "We should ask someone who's known them longer."

"I agree. The Head Professors of their houses should have the most reliable information on each boy," Mayaru deduced.

Kagome nodded. "That would be McGonagall-sama and Slughorn-senpai. According to our records, McGonagall-sama began working at Hogwarts in 1956 first as Head of the Transfiguration Department and later as Head of Gryffindor House under Headmaster Albus Dumbledore. She continued her role as Head Professor after becoming Headmistress. As for Slughorn, he recently reprised his roles as Potions Master and Head of Slytherin House after he left the school in 1891."

"How long as he been back?" Mayaru asked.

"Two years give or take," Mimiru answered.

Kagome pouted. "So, in other words, he hasn't known Draco that long either. What happened to the professor Slughorn succeeded? Only current staff was listed in our initial reports."

"Not that you paid much attention to the anyway," Mayaru interjected.

"I suppose it's safe to say you did, eh?" Mimiru quipped.

"Indeed," she replied, "but I only know him because he died in during the Battle of Hogwarts while serving a brief stint as Hogwarts Headmaster. Based on our intelligence, he was a double agent of sorts, but any available press does not depict him favorably. If you really want to know, Kingsley-san should have a more accurate assessment on his involvement."

"Maybe later. What was his name?" Kagome asked, curious.

"Severus Snape."

"Another unfortunate casualty of the war. Either way, he's not much help to us now."

As she spoke, Kagome made a mental note to obtain more information on these wartime casualties and the like as soon as she could. Going into this assignment, she didn't have any interest in researching it beyond the most basic facts. She wanted to maintain her objectivity and not have her opinion tainted by false or exaggerated publications and claims—subconsciously or otherwise. Now, that decision seems to be backfiring on her.

"Even if he was alive, I do not think he would be either."

"Mimiru!" Kagome cried, "You shouldn't speak ill of the dead. Besides, you never even met the guy."

"I meant nothing against the man. I'm merely saying that going to a teacher especially one who's the Head Professor of any House is not the best option after discussing it. I'm sure they will handle your questions professionally, but any information obtained would likely be biased."

Kagome frowned, disheartened. She didn't want to make such assumptions of her co-workers, but her partner had a valid point. At the very least, Slughorn was guilty of giving students preferential treatment even if he meant no harm. As for McGonagall, Kagome believed the Head Mistress would support putting Harry and Draco in the same group to bolster House unity.

"After all that, I guess that means this should just be between us," Kagome said, "Looks like we're back to square one."

"I'd say we never left start," Mayaru retorted, "Out of all your students, is Potter really your only option, Kagome?"

"Not necessarily. I also considered Granger-chan, Li-chan, and Corner-kun to be Malfoy-kun's partner. They have all been very attentive in my classes so far, but I don't know how well they interact with Malfoy-kun."

"But you do have such knowledge regarding Potter and Malfoy?" Mimiru asked.

"The only thing I know is that Potter-kun spoke on behalf of Malfoy-kun's family during the postwar trials. Considering the role he played, his word has a lot of influence, and I don't believe he would use it unless he was completely sincere."

"Then I say you should put the two of them together. If something goes awry, simply intervene as you see fit," Mayaru decided.

"So you want me to watch over them waiting for them to screw up?" Kagome proposed, "That'll never work. They're young, but they're not children. If I think they can work together in a group, then they should be mature enough to handle themselves without me hovering around."

"You don't have to do all that; just be observant," Mayaru clarified, "If worst comes to worst, insert yourself into their group long enough to solve the problem."

Mimiru agreed. "Seems like the best course of action to me."

"So after talking ourselves in circles, your great sage advice is to do exactly what I planned on doing in the first place."

"Perhaps. But don't you feel more confident knowing your decision has been validated?" Mimiru asked.

"I guess so," Kagome replied as she smiled and downed the rest of her miso soup in one big gulp.

"Now that was a perfect Japanese breakfast! How were the house elves able to make all of this? I'm sure they never cooked Asian cuisine like this before."

"All we had to do was ask for it while you were preoccupied in the bathroom. I imagine they tried as many times as necessary to perfect it all," Mayaru exclaimed as they began to stack their soiled dishes. The house elves appeared soon after and replaced the remains of their breakfast with a silver serving tray carrying a pot and three teacups filled with piping hot chocolate chai surrounded by a wide array of sweeteners.

"Isn't that exploitation?" Kagome remarked.

"Is it? They live to serve. Why go against their very nature?" Mayaru refuted.

Kagome scoffed. "I should have known better than to bring up that topic with a politician."

"Then let's change the subject," she stated, "Any other plans for the day?"

Mimiru added a quick splash of cream to her cup before talking a small sip. "You should go home."

"At least at home, the tea is not so decadent," Mayaru retorted, "Much like English desserts I imagine."

Mimiru's lip curled into a snarl. The subtle jab to her and her recent diet was evidently clear.

Kagome turned away and decided to let the two sisters began to face off in their usual rivalry hoping they would get it out of their systems. They pushed other's buttons, but their relationship wasn't nearly as volatile as the one between Sesshomaru and InuYasha. Now that her partner problem was taken care of, she—and Mimiru if she hasn't already—had to finish writing her reports and lesson plans for the week. Because of the "Sanders Incident", they had to be sent before Monday by owl instead of collected in person. Hopefully, she was the worst of what the Ministry had to offer.

-O0o0O-

Draco loathed Wednesdays. Like any other Wednesday, it began with breakfast which he skipped then continued with Arithmancy where he was avoided and ignored. He didn't particularly care that his peers disregarded his presence, but it made for a painfully dull day. Davis and Greengrass were the only eighth year Slytherins in the class, and they weren't on speaking terms before the war so they didn't interact with him either. He nearly wished Blaise, Pansy, or Theo opted to take this class over Ancient Runes but decided it still would be horrible in an entirely different way. They would meet up soon enough for Defense Against the Dark Arts.

After Arithmancy was dismissed, Draco joined the trio for their next class and sat in their unofficial isolated corner of the room.

"You're looking quite dreadful. How's your day?" Theo asked.

"The same as any other Wednesday," Draco tersely answered.

"Don't worry, my friend," Blaise cheerfully remarked, "We'll be blessed with a vision of loveliness to end your Wednesday melancholy."

"As if you don't see Higurashi everyday," Pansy said with a scoff, "It isn't even entertaining to watch anymore. You're a single step away from being a bloody stalker."

"I would never resort to doing something so vulgar!" he replied, "I can't help it if the two of us happen upon each other from time to time."

Draco reluctantly had to agree. Higurashi was always around in the halls between classes or in the Great Hall during most meal times, never far from any students. She became very popular very quickly, so much sat that she eared a new name, Professor Higurashi-chan, after those prefixes she liked to use so much. It was honestly no surprise that Blaise and everyone else at Hogwarts saw her and her silent sidekick on a daily basis.

Speak of the devil, Draco thought as that sidekick appeared to start class.

"Ohayo," Aisakawa announced as she walked to the head of the class. She was back in the Muggle wear she wore before Friday, khaki slacks with a fitted green sweater. With little delay, she began to teach.

"As you all know, all preliminary assessments have been completed," she reported, "Based on your collective results, I've decided how to proceed with this class. Individual reports on your performance will be made available in my office next week should you wish to see them."

Aisakawa turned around and began to write on the blackboard. She finished quickly because she wrote three simple words that everyone easily copied onto their rolls of parchment.

"Fundamentally, the ability to properly utilize your magic for defense and other aspects is strength in three primary areas: the body, the mind, and the spirit. If this trinity is out of balance, then your energy—magic—" She quickly corrected herself before beginning again.

"Your magic will be unbalanced and unpredictable. Individually, you're bodies are strong, stronger than most, but your minds are weak and your spirits weaker, atrophied from inattention. We will remedy this through the practice of meditation."

She paused for the subsequent giggles and joking imitations of mantras, unfazed. It wasn't the first time those from the western world mocked her eastern ideals. When the class quieted, Aisakawa continued her lecture.

"Through regular meditation, you can identify blocks in the path of your magic and calm the chaotic fluctuations and shifts they cause. Doing so will strengthen your spirit as well as your mind to allow your powers to flow naturally. Observe."

The young professor hopped onto her desk and sat with her legs crossed, closed her eyes, and her hands folded in her lap. She skillfully tuned out her students and focused as she was taught to do long before and seamlessly slipped into a meditative state.

Theo leaned toward Blaise, knowing Draco or Pansy wouldn't answer him, and whispered, "Is something supposed to happen?"

"Dunno."

Then the air began to shift. It became cool and crisp as freshly fallen snow while Aisakawa took in a deep breath. Then she exhaled slow and steady, and the atmosphere became hot and heavy like a smoldering inferno. In seconds, every candle in the classroom was alit with a flicker, their flames burning bright blue. For several seconds, the cycle continued. With every inhale, the fire extinguished and sparked back to life with every exhale until Aisakawa stopped and opened her eyes, uncrossing her legs and letting them dangle over the edge of her desk. When she began to speak again, nearly everyone was ready to write down her every word. Whatever she did certainly was no joke.

"The type of meditation we will practice in this class is called samma sati, a concept derived from Buddhismotherwise known as 'right mindfulness'. There are four foundations of mindfulness found in the Satipatthama Sutta that are related to the three key areas I mentioned before. They are kāyā, body; vedanā, feelings; mind, citta; and mental contents, ahammā. Please note that, although right mindfulness is a religious goal of Buddhism, our practice has been tailored to fit into the school system for less spiritually motivated purposes."

The lecture continued until Aisakawa stopped to initiate a group meditation exercise, making the class became as dull as Draco expected. Some students like Granger were too engrossed in the activity with their brows painfully furrowed in concentration. Others took advantage of the lull and began to sleep, lightly—and not so lightly—snoring. Draco only closed his eyes and focused on nothing at all. This entire class, especially this mediation practice, was idiotic. If he searched for whatever barricades Aisakawa wanted him to identify, he knew what he would find, and it was best left alone. Before he knew it, class was dismissed with an announcement they will meet at the castle entrance for their next class.

"So that kid really does know magic, yeah," Blaise commented.

"It certainly boggles the mind," Draco murmured halfheartedly.

"You have to admit it was pretty impressive or will anything interest you these days?" Pansy remarked.

Theo snorted. "Not likely."

They continued until they reached the Demonic Characteristics and Behavior class only to find the door was closed and Higurashi was nowhere in sight.

"That's odd," Theo said, "Higurashi's been out to greet us every day last week."

Pansy shrugged. "It must have gotten old."

As more of their peers began to arrive, Potter and his fellow lions pushed through and listened at the door. Draco readily stepped aside, rolling his eyes.

"Can you hear anything?"

"I think someone's shouting in there."

Potter reached out to test the knob. "It's locked."

"Do you think we should open it?" Weasley asked.

"I say we wait," Granger answered, "It must be locked for a reason."

Pansy scoffed and walked to the door as she withdrew her wand. "Why don't we see what that reason is? Alohamora!"

The door opened with a click to reveal Higurashi standing by her desk with her arms folded over her chest, glaring at a team of three Aurors. O'Neil was among them.

"Ms. Higurashi, there's no need go raise your voice," he said, attempting to placate the Asian professor.

"Really?" she replied with a scoff, "Well, since the three of you barged into my classroom spouting unfounded accusations as though I've committed some sort of crime, I believe there is a very great need for me to raise my voice."

"No one is accusing you of any crime," O'Neil clarified, "There are merely some concerns we found in the report you submitted."

"Concerns?" she repeated, "Concerns! Concerns so grievous that you couldn't contact my superior about them? Or even contact me directly by owl or fire call?"

"We simply thought it would be better if we spoke to you off the record," the female Auror in the group said, "There are a few items on your lesson plans that we considered to be somewhat inappropriate." Under her breath, she added, "Among other things."

Higurashi clearly heard her.

"Other things such as?" she probed, her blue eyes blazing,

"For one," the Auror began, not at all intimidated, "Wizarding robes are standard attire—"

"But not required," Higurashi interrupted, "My boss certainly finds my attire appropriate for the workplace, so it isn't a concern."

By now, Higurashi had her hands firmly planted on her dark denim clad hips. While her clothing was unconventional, Higurashi's dress was tasteful enough for her position Draco noted. Her denims were paired with a long black, fitted top with a wide collar that hung off of her shoulders to expose two sets of straps, one heather gray and the other bright pink. He could also appreciate how fit that outfit made her look. Higurashi worked for that figure, and it would show even if she wore a burlap sack.

"All of that aside, we do believe you should reconsider your lesson plans. If not, we'll have to report you to a higher authority."

"Go ahead and do it. I don't answer to you, and I am done with this conversation."

From the corner of her eye, Higurashi finally acknowledged her students gathered in the doorway watching the entire confrontation. She smiled, slow and regretful, before she turned to them and bowed low at her waist.

"Gomen nasai, everyone. I didn't mean to show you all such a distasteful scene," she said as she stood to her full height. Once she did, Higurashi angrily cut her eyes toward the Auror team.

"My visitors were just leaving."

The Aurors quietly marched to the exit until one of them stopped and turned back to Higurashi.

"You haven't heard the last of this. We'll have your job and your head before we're finished with you."

"Take both if you think you can. Until then, I'm not going anywhere."

Once the Auror team finally left and the class began to file inside, Higurashi walked to the doorway and approached Draco.

"Malfoy-kun, could you wait for me in the hallway?" she requested, "I'd like a moment to speak to you before class."

Though surprised, Draco nodded and remained in the hall, leaning back against the wall facing the door. It wasn't long before Potter joined him without saying a word.

Draco raised a single thin eyebrow. She wants to see the two of us?

They didn't have to wait long before Higurashi joined them, closing the door behind her.

"I'm sorry for taking you both from of class out of the blue like this, but what happened earlier indirectly pertains to you," she told them.

"How so?" Draco asked, ignoring the repulsed look Potter sent his way. Now was not the time to be blunt.

Higurashi sighed and tiredly ran her hand through her hair before she began to explain.

"I was going to announced this during our next history class, but do you remember that group assignment I mentioned in our first class? I have already divided everyone into groups and decided to put the two of you together. Apparently, the Aurors who reviewed my lesson plans seem to have a problem with that."

"I can see why they would," Potter murmured.

Draco didn't comment, but he definitely agreed. Besides no one wanted their precious savior in the company of a Death Eater.

"If it is a problem, I can place you in different groups," Higurashi suggested, "I haven't officially announced it to the rest of the class, so it's really no trouble.

Draco was fully prepared to take her up on that offer. Seriously, what as she thinking? Him and Potter? Higurashi's ignorance regarding Hogwarts was no excuse. She had to know of their sordid history. Potter was the last person he wanted to work with.

Before he could answer, Draco noticed the crestfallen yet hopeful look on Higurashi's face. She clearly put a lot of work into this despite her obvious blunder.

What a troublesome woman, he thought. He knew as soon as he saw her there would be another event added to his miserable Wednesday.

"I don't mind," he said, startling Potter immediately. He was not expecting that response. One the other hand, Higurashi appeared absolutely ecstatic.

"Are you sure? You'll do it?" she happily exclaimed.

Draco shrugged. "I don't care one way or another. It is only for one class."

"I see. Are you okay with the arrangement as well, Potter-kun?"

"Of course, sensei. If Malfoy can handle it, so can I."

"Perfect!" Higurashi cried, excitedly clapping her hands together, "I'm available at any time if you run into any problems."

Draco received her grateful, heart-stopping grin with a blank look while Potter's face grew bright pink. So he liked her too, eh? That's way he agreed to this arrangement.

Absolutely perfect. I already have to put up with Blaise now him.

Still, as Draco watched her return to the classroom so cheerfully that she was nearly indistinguishable from the woman they saw before, he could understand the attraction. Higurashi was, at the very least, completely genuine.

-O0o0O-

punkish furball – I hope you have enjoyed this latest installment. Until next time, TCB! XD

(edited 01.12.15)