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Oh, Gods...(Candira and Razgriz)

"I left a note because I know that the instructor, as the students call him Mr. Otame, is likely looking for any excuse plausible to have me thrown out of his class. At least if it's a note delivered by one of his better students, he can't say I didn't try to give him prior notice." Njord told her, reminding the woman that he was still viewed quite sourly in some people's eyes. Not that it would be hard to guess who it was exactly; many people had reasons aplenty to frown upon him as an individual, after all.

He just chuckled a bit as she denied him the chance to see her as a teacher; he figured as much, but it was so much fun seeing her get uptight. And besides...If Connie joined him, he just imagined the trouble she would have with him. That didn't mean he couldn't use it to his advantage. One poorly kept secret was that Connie, despite his air of feigned indifference, had quite an attraction towards Kumi. Of course, one could argue it was simply due to his quirks...But Njord suspected it was something much deeper.

"As for the barrier, I don't see any reason it should falter." was his last statement, only adding after her bid for safe travel, "Awwww, you're so cute when you worry, Kumi-chan. Don't fret, I'll be back in two shakes." He reached down his bracelet, taking hold of the sword charm and giving a slight tug; its shape shifted into that of a small dagger, opening a howling void that led to who-knows-where. Giving her a mock salute, the Swede stepped through the portal and vanished to meet with his other brother.
 
Kumi wasn't sure how this was going to go if Katsumi just found a note, but Njord had a point about his popularity. He certainly hadn't done much to ingratiate himself with the teacher of their homeroom. It would take a while for him to blend in.

"I guess I'll be setting up another one for good measure," she said, sighing softly as she rolled her shoulders. She'd gone ahead and set one up at the school while she'd enchanted the bow. She watched him step into the void, unable to mask the concern she still felt. The uneasy feeling in her stomach wouldn't go away until the Swede returned. And it likely would be replaced with something else entirely. "See ya," she said softly, watching the portal close.

Finally, she sighed and started on that barrier until the house was doubly enforced. In the morning, Katsumi was out the door again like clockwork, headed for the bus stop, the dogs trailing her from a distance.

Kumi followed Katsumi from a distance and then changed into a more dignified form. She looked to be in her mid twenties, her blue highlights missing now. She wore her long black hair in a pony tail, her make up understated. She wore rectangular glasses and a black suit with electric blue accents and ballet flats.

She entered Otome's classroom and introduced herself as a teacher who would be observing the class for the next few days. She would also be acting as a substitute. She smiled and waved before taking a seat behind the desk while Otome taught and teachers rotated in and out of the room.
 
(Sorry for taking so long. Work's been hectic trying to get used to the new schedule xD)



Njord stepped from the portal's exit onto the outside of a lush estate: A ridiculously large mansion, perhaps ten stories tall, sat behind gold-plated walls of solid iron on an unbelievable plot of land. The entirety of the estate had flora of the rarest varieties, as well as different decorations perfectly assembled that likely would cost exorbitant sums to obtain through legal means. Something that Njord knew quite well Connie did the exact opposite of.

The Swede just snickered and shook his head, "Ah, old Connie. Must be nice to live in such luxury." He then walked over to the main gate, where a pair of identical large humanoid beasts stood as guards, their bodies covered in ancient armor leaving only their horn-templed heads exposed. These were what the Japanese referred to 'Oni', red-skinned monsters of massive size and strength that sometimes served as guardians of places they deemed 'sacred'. And these two Njord knew quite well: Faithful and dedicated, and mean as hell if they engaged in battle.

"So, it seems our Master was right, Bara. The brother comes to seek aid." said the one on the left, to which Bara added, "So it seems, Yaksha. Be gone, Skallagrim. Our Master wishes to be alone." Njord just shrugged, "It's not really about him this time. Now, as I'm sure you both know, I have other priorities and I know you both don't like to mince words. So, forgive if I seem...blunt, but I really don't care if he's depressed. He needs to come out from his hidey-hole and deal with this himself. You know it, I know it. So, how about you let me through, eh?"

The Oni on the left let out an angry snort and started to move, but Bara held him steady. "And why should we? Our master's orders were explicit." Njord just sighed, "Look, you're doing your job. So am I, and I really need to talk to him. Now, I'm getting in there one way or the other...The question is..." He trailed off to bring a hand to the charm bracelet, continuing "Will you make this easy? Or hard?"

Both of the Oni's skin seemed to pale a little, an uneasy smile on Bara's face as he replied "You can't...I know you're forbidden to remove it." Njord just smirked, "In the mortal realm, that's true. But here...Well, let's just say you and everyone else are a little more 'resilient'. So, again I ask: Easy or hard?" The guards just looked at each other, unsure of what to do; Njord just added, "Look, if it helps, you can fake that I knocked you both out. That way Connie will just get mad at me for hurting you, since he doesn't appreciate anyone touching his stuff. Sound fair?" Bara and Yaksha didn't hesitate and just fell down to the ground, leaving Njord to freely enter the complex as he said, "Pleasant days, gentlemen."

Njord traversed the yard, coming to the massive shiny wooden doors that seemed like they would better guard a fortress than a house; at this, he did his brother the courtesy of removing his shoes. Once inside, he made his way through the house to the center of the first floor, its surface fine marble. "Top floor, please" he then said out loud to no one at all; at this, an elderly-looking bald and fair-skinned man in a butler's suit materialized, his left foot tapping on the floor three times. The centerpiece lit up and slowly started to ascend, carrying Njord and the manservant upwards. The ceiling of each floor seemed to part as they rose, only to close down behind them once they passed through.

"So, I hear Connie's a bit grouchy as of late. Hope he's not coming down on you guys too harshly." Njord then said to the man, who gave a kind smile and replied in a weary voice, "No more than usual, in fact quite a bit less for the house-keepers. But his field operatives...Some of them look like they're on their last legs." Figures, thought the Swede; whatever Connie was planning, he was trying to work all the other angles to make sure things stayed on schedule. Eventually, they reached the floor that Connie's main study was on, and Njord stepped off, giving the man his thanks before approaching the entrance.

He raised a hand to knock, only for the doors to swing open of their own volition, showing none other than Connie himself sitting in a plush high-backed chair facing away from the Swede. The only thing that could be seen was a hand holding a glass of clear liquor, its fingers well-adorned with rings possessing jewels that would make most wives blush with envy. For a few seconds, nothing was said. Njord started to open his mouth, but quickly shut it when Connie interjected, "Get out, brother. I don't need any help from you." Njord snickered, "Well, hello to you too...Connie."
 
It didn't take anyone long to notice that Njord was not in class. Several people were disappointed, but Katsumi felt strange about it. It wasn't as though she missed him--they weren't close--but she wasn't relieved like she probably should have been given the amount of grief he'd given her just a short time ago. She did find herself wondering why he was gone, but she'd found a note from him in her locker. It was both thoughtful and cryptic. But it was also a pain in the ass because it meant that she would probably be the one who had to help him catch up on his work.

She sighed and glanced over at Ami who seemed incredibly distracted and very put out. The poor girl was probably heartbroken. It was sweet, but it also made Katsumi wonder about Ami's tastes. Then again, maybe SHE was the odd one out. Lots of girls seemed to be carrying a torch for the Nordic transfer student. And, dear lord, why was she thinking about the giant so much?

She sat up a little straighter and gave her notes her full attention, doing her best to block out the other thoughts. The shrine maiden focused so hard she was sure she could cut through to the void if she changed thoughts too quickly. All of this made an amusing picture for Kumi, who had been a cause for speculation all day.

The look on Katsumi's face caught a little smirk from Kumi. It was interesting to see a girl like Katsumi twisted up like this. She was clearly at odds with herself and conflicted about her feelings for Njord. It was a position she had been in herself, and so it was interesting to see the effects of his existence on another woman--one who was so focused and serious. Off-balance was the right way to explain it.

That said, Katsumi's reaction was nothing compared to the little girl beside her. Ami? Yes, that was the name. She got the feeling that the girl was normally not a sighing, distracted mess because Katsumi had to snap her out of it a few times.

When lunch hit, Kumi played the part of the unknowing substitute and asked to join the girls while they had lunch. Katsumi was kind and warm, happily inviting her to join in. It was nice to know that her charge wasn't a giant cunt. It wasn't always the case.

She, Ami, and Katsumi settled down under a tree and started to open up their lunches when they finally noticed Ami's was the biggest lunch box either of them had seen any one student carrying.

"How many people did you cook for?" Kumi asked, her eyes wide. Secretly, she was very impressed. Though she was a specialist in certain things in the spirit world, she was a terrible cook. Very few dishes were safe in her care--hence the sandwich and various prepared foods she'd brought with her. Katsumi's lunch had been made by her father, which the girl had readily admitted.

Ami, however, belonged on one of those cooking shows. Not only did she have an enormous amount of food, but it all looked amazing. "C-can we have some?" Kumi asked, looking at the girl.

"Well, if we don't eat some of it, it'll get dried out. Eat as much as you want," Ami said, only slightly cheered by the idea that a teacher seemed interested in her food. Katsumi smiled and shook her head. "Let me guess. You made this for a certain exchange student, right?"

Instantly, Ami burned red and Kumi's eyebrows shot up. A little thing like her wanted a piece of Njord? Ambitious little minx, wasn't she? Amused, and keen on teasing the girl just a little, she joined right in. "Ooooh? A boy has caught your eye? Is he the mysterious missing student?"

Katsumi, lowered her thick lashes over her amber eyes and leaned in a little closer. "I believe the evidence speaks for itself," she said. "She's not alone in her admiration, but I think she's got a shot."

Kumi chuckled and shifted her gaze to Katsumi. "Oh? Does she have competition from you?"

Ami's eyes widened and she looked almost ferociously at Katsumi who merely laughed and waved her hand. "Goodness, no. I don't really see the appeal. I mean he's not a bad looking guy, but it's too much for me, ya know? Besides, how could I compete with Ami? She's got me beat, hands down."

She smiled and ate a rice ball while Ami relaxed. "Aw, thanks Katsumi. But there are guys lining up for you, you know. It's not like you have a shortage of admirers."

Katsumi raised her eyebrow and thought about that for a minute. Who exactly were these men? Why couldn't she think of any off the top of her head? Was her head that much in the clouds? Or was it that it was stuck in the books? Really, she hadn't thought about boys very much since she got into high school. Oh, sure, there were cute boys--handsome even--but she wasn't really someone who sought out attention. She was nice enough, and she'd gone on dates before, but she wasn't really attached to anyone. No one had ever really kept her attention. Was she just a cold fish?

Kumi chuckled at this interaction. "Oh, you girls are so lucky. Being young and admired is something I miss. And you just keep on trying to catch his eye, Ami. I'm sure you'll hook him. Especially if you feed him this well. This is amazing," she said, taking some of the food Ami had painstakingly prepared. Oh well, Njord's loss.

Both the girls looked at their "teacher" and raised an eyebrow. Sure, Kumi was a teacher, but she wasn't exactly over-the-hill. She was still a beautiful woman, and there was definitely rumblings among the male population in the classroom about her. She could easily have her own admirers.

"Well, I don't know much about your personal life, but it seems to me like you're selling yourself short, sensei," Ami said. Katsumi nodded in agreement.

Kumi chuckled. If only they knew how old she really was. Besides, the only men she was interested in had no time for her. It was for the best, she thought. It wasn't like the men in her life had no worries. She wasn't a priority, and that was fine. Her own work kept her quite busy. Still, it was nice to talk to other girls about this.

"Oh, yeah? Well, maybe. I haven't had someone interested in me in a long time..." she shrugged and popped a rice ball into her mouth, leaning back on the grass.

Katsumi looked from the teacher back to Ami and thought, 'Good lord. If she doesn't have anyone, what chance do I stand?' Ami thought the exact same thing.

The bell rang before too long and they all gathered up to finish out the day. Before long, school was over and Kumi was left to watch over Katsumi in her spirit form, highlights back in her hair, kimono perfectly in place as before. It was no wonder B had his eye on Katsumi. She was a good person, and just about as straight-laced as they came as far as humans go. And if she had neutralized the hounds, her spirit must have been pure and strong. As the girl practiced her martial arts and archery, her powers grew, and it was only a matter of time before she would have to use them. In the mean time, Kumi would do whatever she could for the girl. Despite her formidable powers, she was no Njord, and every second he spent with Connie was time that Katsumi's defenses would be weakened.
 
Connie's eyes narrowed at the cursed nickname...Connie. What was it that made his brother so damned insufferable? He was an overgrown child in a man's body with some degree of awe-inspiring power. HE was a master saboteur, an emperor of espionage and deceit, a skilled deceiver and ambitious. But no, Njord had all the freedom in the world, and Connie was only allowed by their eldest brother minimal activity.

"Why are you here, brother? What I do is none of your or HIS business." Connie snarled, giving a derisive 'Hmph' afterwards. "Honestly? You're right, but this isn't about me or even D. This is about you and what I'm assuming is your botched operation, Connie."

The man's fists clenched as he retorted through gritted teeth, "Do. Not. Call me that!" Njord just sneered, "Or what? Strong as you are, you couldn't do anything to me on your best day." The Swede then put his hands up, "But listen, I just wanted to come down and say sorry. She was one of your better ones, wasn't she?" Connie sighed and relaxed, looking solemn as he replied, "Her name was Rach. She was one of my best, my elite. A little air-headed at times, but she was clever. Knew how to keep herself under the radar...At least until you got your hands on her. Then gift-wrapped her to him." Connie shuddered, remembering what she looked like when he came to his front door. He knew his brother could have a cruel streak...But that was something different.

"The worst part was, she was doing me a favor. She was investigating something related to your current project, even staged herself getting kidnapped and forced to work for another." Njord's eyes narrowed, "So it wasn't you that was trying to kidnap the girl?" Connie slammed his fist on the arm of his chair, "Our brother made it very clear about that! You think I'm stupid enough to cross him, especially so openly?" Njord just scratched his chin, "Weeeellll, you two don't exactly see eye to eye..."

Connie huffed and turned his chair around, "I might be greedy, but I'm not foolish. We both know what kind of players are in this game. Besides, I already have items far more valuable than a girl who captured the interest of a god." Njord nodded, "True...Still, I know you. You don't like your stuff getting touched. You're telling me you don't want to find this guy and put your foot up his ass? You really want whoever let your agent get herself caught to have a free pass? That's not you, Connie"

Njord's brother pinched the bridge of his nose, "Again, it was made very clear about where I stand in this. If I leave, he will have my head. And I prefer to have it attached as firmly as possible to my body." Njord just laughed, "Actually, D already gave me the go-ahead. And if anything goes wrong, it will all fall on me. So...What do you say?"

Connie turned around, "I'm sorry, brother...But even if you are telling the truth, if I leave, I risk someone trying to take everything I own. And I will not allow that to happen." Njord just sighed and crossed his arms, "Then I have no choice...Guess I'll just have to beat you." At this Connie turned back around, a perplexed look on his face, "You know that I can't defend myself, brother. Surely you wouldn't stoop so low as to attack someone without provocation."

"Not physically beat you, Connie. Just beat you...At chess." replied the Swede; at this, Connie smirked, "You've never beaten me before, brother. What makes you think you can now?" Njord just grinned, giving his self-assured reply, "Simple. I'm just going to. I have to." Connie then just snapped his fingers, two black-robed attendants carrying what appeared to be a very expensive-looking chessboard and box containing the pieces. With great precision and speed, they set the board and table up, placing an immaculate and highly-polished clock next to it to time their turns. The fine crystal figurines glinted with an almost-ethereal beauty; figures, thought the Swede, that only his brother would have something like this.

"Very well then....Let us begin. Though don't expect this to be easy. To give you the advantage, I will let you make the first move."

Njord just nodded and sat down, his eyes focused as he tried to decide where to go. And just as he reached to move one of his pawns, Connie shouted "Gloves! Don't you dare get greasy fingerprints on these!" Njord could only give a puzzled look, to which Connie added "Velvet pouch next to you...Idiot." Njord just looked down and saw that exact pouch, pulling out a pair of fine white gloves and putting them on his meaty mitts.

"Sheesh...You make even a game of chess such a pain in the ass. It's a wonder you can even get a date. Can I start now?" Njord commented snarkily, Connie just nodding his approval wordlessly.

"Looks I'll be here a while..." he just mused, making his first move.
 
Katsumi had no idea she was constantly being watched over by her substitute teacher and the pack of dogs she'd met yesterday. When she arrived at home, it was business as usual--time for a snack, then a quick change into her shrine robes and she was off to work. Her mother was busy keeping watch over the students offering prayers to the God of learning--Tenjin. Of course this meant that her mother didn't see her be practically knocked over by the canines who had greeted her the day before.

"Ah! Careful," she said, giggling as the overgrown pups jumped at her, trying to show their affection. She pet them all and smiled brightly at them as they pulled themselves together and calmed down. "Aww, you're so cute. Such good boys!" She said, crouching so that she was closer to their level. "I wish I could play with you more, but I have chores to do," she said, giving them all another stroke. "You probably shouldn't wander away from your master like this. They must be worried." She certainly would be if her dogs had gone off on their own. They all seemed to look up at her with sad eyes, but they got up when she did. "Don't get into trouble, ok?"

With that she tore herself away from the dogs and went to start her chores. Kumi just watched in awe as this happened. It was one thing to hear it, but quite another to watch a ferocious hound turn into a jubilant puppy. "Well, now I've seen it all." She shrugged and whistled to let the dogs know to keep standing guard. Surprisingly, they obeyed and dispersed to cover the area. It looked like today would be an easy day, but one could never be too careful when gods were involved.

"Hurry up, would you?" Kumi muttered, frowning. The unease she felt wouldn't go away until things were back on track. Besides, this wasn't really her thing. While she was capable of protecting the girl, Kumi knew that it wasn't really demons she needed to worry about at this point. If she understood her master, he suspected the gods.
 
Njord and Connie continued their game, each taking pieces from their little 'armies'. Connie had already both of the Swede's bishops, one of his rooks and half his pawns, and one of his knights was in danger. But Njord had a few pawns as well, and had taken his brother's queen. "Just like you, brother, to go for the strongest first." Connie commented, moving a bishop three spaces left diagonal and touching the clock for his move.

"Cut off the head of the snake, Connie. Cut it off" Njord replied with a grin, staring down at the board as he contemplated his next move. Truly, he was in a bad spot, but far better off than he normally was. "Well, at the very least you've gotten better. But your King is virtually blocked, and you can't move your other knight unless you intend to sacrifice it. Still, you seem to love the Stonewall." Still, even without his Queen, Connie was in the more strategic position. Honestly, though...It was nice to be able to just focus on this.

"I am a stone wall, brother. I wouldn't choose any other form of defense." Njord joked; Connie just let out a derisive snort, "You and your idiotic jokes. Do you never tire of that?" Njord just shook his head, "You know how I used to be, Connie. I need to laugh, and honestly, you do too." His brother could only sigh, "You don't live my life. You know not what I do, and what sort of people I am forced to deal with."

"Could be worse, you might have me living here...Although, you do have that ONE cute housekeeper. She might be just worth it..." Njord just said, moving to take another one of Connie's pawns, his brother responding by having his knight taking it in turn. But the solemn man did chuckle, "You're not her type, and I would not allow it." The Swede just smiled, "Can't blame a guy for trying, right?"

More moves were made, and pieces slowly taken. Njord was gaining back the advantage, but it was to be short-lived. Connie then positioned his rook and the Swede then just said "Checkmate. Well, that figures." Connie seemed much more satisfied, arms crossing in front of his chest, "I told you were not going to beat me, brother." Giving a defeated sigh, Njord replied "I guess not."

The man in fine robes narrowed his eyes a little; now, he knew his brother was very laid back and generally it took a lot to get him angry. But even still, he was being a little *too* non-chalant about this. Especially since he DID say he needed him out in the field. "...You didn't intentionally let me win, did you?" he then asked in a slightly accusing tone, making the Swede try his hardest not to bust out laughing. "Oh, brother, you have been locked away FAR too long if you think I would ever do that." Njord stated, his tone filled with amusement.

Connie still wasn't fully convinced that he had won; although, Njord never showed him any mercy in anything before. In fact, he would often do things just to piss him off for entertainment. "Well, then I suppose victory is mine!" Connie then shouted cheerfully, feeling a little more energetic now. And with that, Njord just stood up and said, "Well, glad to see you're feeling better. Now then...About our current situation."

Connie just waved his hand, "Fine fine, I'll come out. Just give me about a day or so to make preparations. There are some things I would like to make sure of. Also...If you could ask our dearest brother to stay here in my stead, that would be greatly appreciated." At least Connie knew that if 'D' resided here for the time being, he could be - somewhat - peaceful in mind that his things wouldn't get messed with. "Aww, why him and not me?" joked the Swede, smirking ear to ear, to which Connie replied "You know exactly why, brother...I don't need you to try and throw one of your 'parties' again while I'm away."

Njord just shook his head whilst chuckling, "Still won't let me live that down, will you?" He then shrugged and added, "Alright then...I'm out of here. Be seeing you!" Taking the sword charm, he was about to cut the air and port out when Connie shouted, "Outside! None of that, not in my house!" Njord snickered; yep, his brother was back. Loud as ever and demanding as hell.

"Fine, fine...Just don't take too long, alright?" Njord stated, making his way out as his brother watched him leave. And as the doors shut, Connie was left to wonder why his brother challenged him to chess. Maybe he did let himself lose, but not because of strategic know-how...If that were the case, Connie still just smiled, "Well-played, brother."

*Later*

Njord reappeared inside his own 'home', the wind blasting about before the portal behind him closed; it was better that he did this, lest he attract even more attention to himself. "Well then...Back to the same old song and dance." he muttered, allowing himself a little grin as he walked outside and down the short set of stairs to his bike. It was nighttime outside, which meant it was guard duty at the Sango household. "Hey there, boy...Miss me?" the Swede muttered, climbing atop before it backfired loudly enough to set off more than a few car alarms. "Shh, shh, I'm sorry boy....Didn't mean to leave you alone like that for that long. Just had to take care of something."

Once things calmed down, he took right off and within minutes, found himself standing atop Katsumi's house once more. "Well, hello old friend!" he then gleefully exclaimed, hugging the woman who had taken his post up until now from behind, his hands dangerously close to her chest, "I'm willing to bet you turned a few heads at your new 'job', am I right?" Njord figured she might be a little agitated; a few hours where he was translated to days here, but how many had passed, he was not sure of.
 
An entire week had passed since Njord took off. The days had proven to be uneventful, but they were stressful as Hell. Though Kumi had many human admirers, it didn't really help her with her job. She was forced to crack the whip a little harder than she might have liked, and that only seemed to intensify the crush some of them had. Her cleaned up teacher look really seemed to do it for a lot of men. How strange...

Katsumi had grown closer to Kumi, and poor Ami had grown more heartbroken over Njord's absence. Katsumi merely found it strange. The shrine maiden seemed a little worried for the giant who had been in good health before his disappearance. It was strange, especially since he'd chosen to contact her specifically and she hadn't heard anything since. But she was busy with her clubs and friends, and trying to scrape poor little Ami off the floor of her depression.

The fashion club had finished his alterations and were waiting to give the properly fitted uniforms over to their rightful owner. Scads of high school girls were disappointed with Njord's disappearance, and at least as many boys were happy about it. Especially one in particular. Still, he'd kept out of Katsumi's path with Kumi hanging out so much. No one had noticed him watching the unsuspecting girl, but Katsumi had been covered.

When Njord returned, Kumi had never been quite so happy to know that her duties in the overworld were coming to an end. "Thank Gods!" she muttered. His comment earned him a bland stare, but she was both bored and relieved, so she cracked quickly. "I'm glad you're back. If you're a good boy and do your job by calling Katsumi, I'll even show you my look."
 
"Aw, and here I thought you would have such fun." Njord joked as he hugged her a little tighter, unaware of just how much of an impact he'd apparently had. He figured there might be a surprise or two waiting for him when he returned, especially with Mr. Otame who probably relished the opportunity to give the Swede any semblance of a hard time that he could. There was also the new uniform; hopefully it would fit better on him after the alterations.

Bringing his hands a little closer to Kumi's breasts, he then added, "But you want me to call her now? I don't have her number, and I think she'd find it odd if I did without her knowledge. But..." He trailed off into a low whisper, "Maybe you can give me a sneak peek anyway out of the goodness of your heart? I bet you had all the boys crossing their legs. Especially if your outfit accentuated these." He then gave her chest a playful squeeze over her kimono to add to his point.
 
Kumi patted her friend's large arm and let him tease her a little. He was going to have to adjust his hands in a few moments, though. While she was fine with playing around, he could get carried away if she didn't put him in check. Still, it was kind of nice to be hugged once in awhile. At his hands inching closer, her eyebrow twitched a bit. Still, it made sense that he wouldn't call Katsumi since he didn't have her number. How he'd managed to send her a note was fairly mysterious, though.

Kumi shivered at Njord's whisper and blushed bright red as he squeezed her breasts. She immediately slammed her fist backwards into his groin. "Maybe if you learn to keep your hands to yourself I won't tell your brother you were feeling up his assistant." She glared a little and looked up at him, well aware that she was outmatched. "If you do your job, you'll see me tomorrow. I'll explain that my time at the school is up for now, and then I'll be out of your hair. I have to get back to my job, too, you know. Anyway, it seems like you created quite a wave when you left. Lots of girls are heartbroken without you--especially Katsumi's little friend. Katsumi just seems concerned, though," she said with a little frown.

"Her spiritual powers have grown considerably in your absence. No new threats have appeared, but that doesn't mean they won't strike soon." Kumi shrugged and turned around to face him. "So tell me how it went. Did it go well?" she asked.
 
An audible wheeze left the Swede's throat as Kumi's fist connected with his privates; outmatched she may be, but that weakness was something anyone could exploit while he was like this. "Duly noted..." he gasped out, his eyes still screwed up for a moment before he recovered. He honestly didn't care if she told; he had it coming, after all. Call it a moment of weakness, he was a sucker for a pretty face.

But that time was past, and now it was time to get back to work. Something that Kumi did not hesitate to bring up, though he did cock a brow when she told him about his apparent horde of admirers. "Mortals are more impressionable than I thought. Who'd have guessed?" he mused.

"Heh, I wouldn't expect anything less. Don't worry, I'll have her wishing I was gone when I get back." he replied with a playful smirk; if she did grow that much though, he was going to want to test it out. He had hoped to help condition her body some more to better utilize her growth, but with how events transpired a setback was inevitable.

"Better than well, I would say. Played Connie in a game of chess, let him beat me even though I could never win against him in a million years. That's about the jist of it. Oh, and D agreed to watch over his place while he was out here. Connie even went so far as to let the servants tend to him...'Course, I might have had something more to do with that." Before he left the house, he made sure to have each housekeeper understand that if D wanted anything, he was to get it. Not that he would likely ask for much; like Njord, D never really looked for handouts.

"He'll probably be out here in the next week or so. Should give us some opportunity to try and locate whoever or whatever's got Katsumi in their sights." he then finalized, nodding to the blue-haired woman before him.
 
Gods, Kumi loved knowing Njord's weakness in this state. It wasn't something she could always exploit, but it was nice to have the option now and then. The idea of him harassing poor Katsumi filled Kumi with sympathy now that she knew the girl better. "Don't alienate Katsumi again so soon after you return. You're going to have to be careful with her--she nearly broke her ribs last time you 'tested' her, and I know you--you'll want to test her." She gave the giant a pointed look and then frowned at the news he delivered next.

As he told her of Connie's involvement, she got a little bit of a sinking feeling in her stomach. Connie was such a loose cannon. She wasn't sure she'd be able to handle him if she had to keep acting as a messenger between D and Njord. "I don't suppose you've found a way to keep him in check?" One week until he got there meant Kumi would have some time to prepare for his inevitable arrival. Still, if she thought Njord's little stunts were bad...

"Anyway, don't let him catch me as a teacher when he's around, okay?" She shuddered and wondered what was happening next.
 
"But of course, mademoiselle! I promise not to lay 'too much' of a hand on her" he then said; of course, what he meant by that could be anyone's guess. Still, he would have liked to do more 'hands-on' training, in terms of conditioning her body to efficiently utilize her power. Training of the spirit and raising its energy was all well and good, but if the body can't handle the output then it's about as useful as a broken shield.

"As for keeping him in check....Yeah, might have forgotten that little tidbit." the Swede then added, scratching his chin with a sheepish grin on his face. He'd be more than happy to knock Connie around if he decided to try anything funny, but at the same time, he was also trying to help him out so that he could help them identify a potential threat to their charge's safety.

"Depends on how long you plan on drawing out your goodbyes. I don't really know how teaching works in this world, but you should be able to leave relatively easily...Unless there's a boy you perhaps had your eyes on?" he then stated jokingly, giving her a playful wink in the process.
 
Kumi didn't trust Njord's promises for an instant. As noble as he could be, she'd known him for too long to trust that he would take it easy on anyone. Improving should be a gradual process...but gradual was not a great thing Njord did well.

When Njord scratched his beard, revealing that he hadn't been able to figure something out--or rather hadn't thought that far ahead--she felt herself weaken in the knees. Connie wasn't going to be on a leash?! Was he out of his mind? She had only intended to attend school once more tomorrow to make sure Katsumi wouldn't worry and Njord wouldn't be a total ass. "Please. I want nothing to do with children," she said. "If I'm there to keep my eyes on anyone, it's you. And it's strictly business."

She might have to just make it a half day or early morning assignment. The less time she spent on the surface near Connie, the better. "Listen, I'll be limiting my surface time soon. I don't fancy spending more time with Connie than absolutely necessary. If you really need me, send for me," she said, handing him an electric blue lily. It would call her to him immediately if he needed her, but she sincerely doubted that she would ever not know about his need ahead of time.

"Is there anything else I need to know? Anything you want me to pass on for you?"
 
"Relax, would ya?" Njord asked worriedly, seeing as it looked like his friend was about to have a heart attack or something. "I'll keep Connie in line, I promise. I don't exactly know what he's going to do, but I can manage him and Katsumi. Think of it this way: Katsumi was the reason that demon got snatched by us, right? He's going to have every reason to make sure she and him stay on this world long enough to find out who's targeting her." Connie might not seem the vengeful type to most, but Njord and Kumi knew better.

When she offered him the lily, Njord refused it, gently pushing the flower back into her hands. "Thanks, but you have your own business to attend to. You've done more than enough for me, Kumi. With Connie and myself on the ground, no one's getting anywhere near Katsumi. Besides, you have impeccable timing on your visits regardless."

"As for messages...None that I can think of." he started, then added, "Wait, there might be something...Could you kindly ask my brother if there's been any disturbances in Greece? It might be nothing, but I have a feeling an old rival of Connie's might be involved in this somehow." Usually his gut was fairly solid on these types of things, but this was a rare and unusual situation. There could be any number with their hands in the honey pot, after all.
 
Kumi frowned but supposed that she might be overreacting to the news of Connie's visit. Njord would be keeping an eye on him, after all. And as powerful as Connie was, he was no match for his brother when it came to a battle of strength. Still...she really didn't like that guy, and it wasn't like he didn't have enough power of his own to really cause worry. Plus, Njord made some convincing points about the demon they'd captured...and mercilessly tortured. Connie was a vengeful spirit, if not a lecherous one. When her friend pushed the lily back to her, she knew exactly who to give it to.

"Alright then. I'll take care of your request. I think I know who you're thinking about, but I hope it's not the case. You're welcome, by the way," she said with a little smirk. "I'll see you tomorrow for my last day on the surface for awhile. Katsumi deserves a goodbye. In any case, take care of her. She's a good person." The kimono clad woman smiled, glad to have struck up a friendship with the girl. "I'm going to report back to my master now. He'll be wanting an update. Good night."

And with that, Kumi bowed her head and began to disappear.
 
Njord just watched as his partner-in-crime disappeared into the next realm, heading towards whatever task awaited her next. God bless her, she was dedicated to his brother. Oddly enough, she was one of the few people that D showed any real degree of protectiveness to. Usually the guy was anything but attached when it came to interactions with others, though it could have been that she'd worked for him longer than anyone could remember. And it was from this that he knew if Connie try to pull anything on her, D would stop that nonsense in a heartbeat.

Regardless, the Swede knew that it was time for nightwatch. He had to wonder what would happen when he went back to school. No doubt he would have all that stupid...what was it called...'homework' to catch up on. "Bah, useless paper. Give me archery and the dojo any day of the week." he huffed, resolving to his vigilant nightwatch as the evening dragged on.


The next day at school would hold some hope for the exchange student's return from his vaguely-explained and rather abrupt absence. But in the week he'd been gone, one student in particular was quite pleased with himself; he'd managed to 'find some things wrong' with the Swede's records. That oaf Njord would receive quite the surprise when he got in today! And even if he didn't show up, the young man couldn't care less: So long as he wasn't here, he could focus on his own plans. Namely trying to get Katsumi to notice him.

As it was, he sat by himself, fantasizing about how with him gone he could finally get some courage up and get closer to the love of his life: Katsumi Sango. Strong in mind, beautiful in body and a heart of gold. The sad part was, she didn't seem to realize how desirable she was to the others. Especially most of all him. But it was also somewhat infuriating; it was her strength and beauty that overly intimidated him and made him hesitant to approach her. It wasn't that she wasn't warm or thought herself above others or anything, but for whatever reason he just couldn't muster the nerve to go talk to her.

"Come on, Kenji. Grow a spine. Just talk to her! Offer her help in math or something!" he said within his own mind, trying to motivate himself to do anything. Thankfully, she wasn't here quite yet though she'd likely walk in at any moment; being who he was, he liked getting to class super early. And doing this now of all times, he was hoping he could catch the fair maiden before everyone else got in. And with any luck, the Swede would be one of slacker type that strolled at the last possible moment.
 
Katsumi had arrived a little earlier than usual today. The bus had actually been on time. She was walking slowly toward the building, not in a rush, but not really ready for school to begin. As she passed by other students, she waved and said hello, but it was more habit than anything. Something just felt off today. Briefly, she wondered if Njord would show up today. He had been gone for so long. And today was the last day Miss Kumi would be there. She was going to miss the vivacious teacher who had been filling in. She also wondered how Miss Kumi would have handled the Swede.

And with that image in her mind, she reached her cubby locker and began to laugh. Her smile faded a little as she changed her shoes and checked her hair. Normally she wouldn't, but everything was off today anyway. The young priestess reached her classroom early as well, surprised to find it nearly empty. There was one classmate she'd seen before, but never really talked to and gave sort of an awkward smile.

"Good morning."


Kumi arrived shortly after Katsumi. Her hair was in loose curls today, resting around her shoulder. Her suit flattered her figure in a very classy silhouette. The suit was mostly black, but she wore an electric blue blouse beneath the jacket. Her pumps were oddly muted as she walked the halls, skillfully addressing and ignoring her students. She scanned the area for Katsumi and Njord as she took to the stairs.
 
Poor Kenji looked like he nearly jumped out of his skin, hearing the angelic voice of the woman he admired speak up so suddenly. His face flushed a noticeable shade of red as she addressed him, albeit in a nonspecific manner. "G..good morning, Katsumi-san." he replied nervously, feeling his shyness kick back up into full gear. Even if her smile might have seemed awkward to others, to him it just made her very cute. Thankfully, the two of them were alone for the moment, so know he felt would be a great time to see about trying to get to know her better.

"S..so, Katsumi-san, I was wondering if there might be a time you would want to study...Or something. We have that math exam coming up in a few days, and if you feel like you need any help, it is one of my stronger subjects." Kenji blurted out, almost feeling stupid and embarrassed. Why did he have to say that so suddenly? God, now she might think him a weirdo or something! His eyes were wide with both fear and bated anticipation of her response.
 
What was his name? She could have sworn she knew it. Why was she coming up blank? Everything was off today. It was nice of him to offer his help, though she wasn't really sure why he'd be so interested in doing so after all this time. Still, the gesture was sweet...Kenji! Of course! She'd seen his scores before and they were impressive. Hers were barely above average. And that was with Ami's help. Maybe he could join their study group, after all. He was smart, but he had weaknesses of his own.

"Oh, you noticed? I admit, it's not a strength of mine, but I do better where language and literature are concerned. I would appreciate your help, if you'd like to join our study group. I'm sure you'd be welcome, Kenji-kun. That is, if you're not already tied up with your own. I only hope we can be helpful to you, too," she said , her smile a little more at ease now. He was a friendly guy. Maybe a little nervous, but nice. Why hadn't she remembered him? Something just wasn't right...
 
His face turned an excellent shade of crimson as she accepted his offer; finally, he was able to get himself able to talk to someone he liked! Though he supposed in his own way, that brutish Swede had something to do with it. "You might be the king in Sweden, Njord, but I won't let you take Katsumi-san from me" the young man thought to himself devilishly.

And now that he was gone, he would have ample opportunity to try and get closer with her. And as a bonus, he'd have plenty of help in the more 'literary' fields; he was an excellent reader, but the finer aspects were something that eluded him in his studies.

However, he would soon find the peaceful silence broken, as students began to arrive one by one. "Guess class is about to start soon. What time does the study group usually meet, Katsumi-san?" Kenji then asked, seeking to confirm when and where they should meet up.
 
"We usually meet after our clubs on Thursdays. Once in a while we'll get together sooner," she said with a smile. "I'm sure you'll be welcomed into the group." With that, students began pouring into the room, so Katsumi excused herself to get ready for the day and talk to her friends.

Kumi entered the room just after this exchange and smiled in greetings, getting the front of the room ready for the day, chanting protection spells under her breath. She noticed Katsumi was talking g with a group of friends, unaware of Njord's imminent return. And still no sign of the lughead could be found. Where was he, for Pete's sake?
 
Kenji felt himself flush; tomorrow was Thursday, which meant he would be able to meet with their study group! "Alright, Katsumi-san...Thank you so much!" he replied meekly, his cheeks flushing ever so slightly. This would be fantastic!

And as the class readied itself for the day, it seemed that the Swede would once again be a no-show. Fine for Kenji, since it meant another day of peaceful studying, how relaxing it was before the loudmouth decided to graciously annoy them with his presence. Little did they realize just how the Swede would making an entrance.

Today would be somewhat warm, the windows to the classroom opened to allow a slightly cooling breeze to waft through. A good thing too, since some of the students seemed like they were about to fall asleep at their desks. And class hadn't even started yet, though it was about to. Suddenly, a loud voice bellowed "Good morning!" and some students turned to see none other than Njord Skallagrim squatting on the windowsill of an opened frame, his arms braced against the frame. More than a few students had mix expressions of shock and exasperation; did he climb the outside to reach the window? How would that even be possible?!

Kenji of course was positively livid, partly because Njord seemed to be in quite excellent health; and today promised to go so well too! His eyebrows twitched in agitation, angry that this loud brute had to make such a spectularly foolish entrance. Why did he insist on this outrageous behavior? Was there no reason for him to act at least halfway decent?

Regardless, he just jumped in and landed gracefully, brushing his uniform free of wrinkles with the back of his hands. He then turned and gave the teacher a mock bow, "Sorry for cutting it so close. Had a bit of a hang-up this morning!"
 
Kumi smiled and chatted with the teacher for the first class of the day. He had always been friendly, and it was nice to talk to another adult for a change. Still, Kumi was missing her job and her boss. Besides, she wasn't fond of taking care of other people's work for them. Especially when they were capable of doing it for themselves. She sat back in the extra desk chair they'd provided her with and crossed her legs and arms as she looked out over the classroom. Since it was her final day, she wasn't really doing paperwork, so the clipboard she normally carried was absent. Still, it was kind of nice to be in this position. She would be teaching one last class today, and then she'd be gone. The assistant would miss Katsumi and her friends, but all good things must come to an end.

Katsumi hadn't caught the blush from her volunteer tutor. He was nicer than she had imagined, though she wasn't sure why she got that impression. She was just filling in Ami and the others about it when she noticed that the giant was conspicuously missing yet again. She frowned, wondering if there was really something wrong. He hadn't explained anything in that cryptic note he'd left her. And she wasn't really sure why he'd left the note in the first place. Worrying about him would get her nothing but a hole in her stomach, though, so she decided to put him out of her mind. Ami and the others seemed really excited to have Kenji in their group. More assets could only be a good thing, right?

As the time before class ticked away, Katsumi and the others took their seats, enjoying the breeze from the open windows. It was just about time for class to start when Katsumi felt a presence. She frowned and looked around the room, only to gasp and jump as she saw Njord, squatting in the window frame like some kind of primal ape. She stood in shock just as all the others caught his booming voice.

How the hell had he gotten in there? It had to be impossible for a normal person to climb up that high, let alone without being noticed. Katsumi's shock quickly went through several phases: disbelief, relief, and anger. It stayed lodged in the anger position for a moment. What the hell was his problem?! Why was he such a fucking show off? Why couldn't he call or leave another note, or use a door like a normal person?!

Realizing, however, that staying angry was counterproductive and foolish, she took a moment to collect herself and simply shook her head. "Welcome back," she said before taking her seat. And the room suddenly felt a lot chillier. Ami, meanwhile led a rush of girls who gathered around him to fawn. "Yes, welcome back Njord!" she gushed happily. "Where have you been? We've all been worried about you! You've definitely been missed!"

Katsumi realized just how worried she had been and it made her feel a little stupid for being cold. She should just be glad he was alright, but something about that entrance really rubbed her the wrong way.

Kumi sighed, realizing that today was going to be so much longer than she thought. She hadn't figured on playing crowd control for a returning celebrity. And why hadn't he just used the damn door like a normal person? Ugh, because he was Njord, that was why. She uncrossed her legs and slowly stood as the other teacher tried to get others to settle down, but failed.

Kumi laced her voice with a bit of suggestive power and put on her best air of authority. "Enough!" Instant silence and frozen bodies. Even Katsumi sat up a little straighter.

"Mr. Skallagrim, I presume? Take a seat. You have a lot of catching up to do." She shifted her focus to the students who suddenly looked very apologetic. "Don't give me that look. All of you, in your seats! Class is about to begin."

"Yes, Miss Kumi," came the chorus of students. Some voices sounded more cheerful than others. Still, they did as she asked. Sometimes being not quite human was very helpful.

"Now then, Mr. Otome, I believe your students are ready for you," she said, smiling at the teacher, who seemed both stunned and oddly happy. With that, she took up her seat once more and shot Njord a look that said, she was in charge in this environment.

Katsumi merely blinked in amazement and watched the others shuffle back to their seats and get ready, unable to keep her gaze from the Swede despite the fact that she really didn't want to look at him.
 
Mr. Otome sighed as some of the girls of the class immediately huddled around the foreigner; seemed like today was going to be another fun-filled day of potentially ridiculous antics. All Njord had to do was just show up and he would lose control of his classroom, it seemed. "Sometimes I wonder if I made a wrong career choice" the teacher thought defeatedly. "Whoa, whoa, ladies! There's plenty of me for everyone! I'm perfectly fine, just had some family business to attend to is all." he teased, giving them all a sincere smile to show his appreciation at their welcoming.

However, all that stopped as Kumi - playing the lovely part of the hot teacher - showed her 'meaner' side. Some of the students seemed positively petrified, even the homeroom was flabbergasted at her authoritarian outburst. It was impressive to say the least; even Njord was taken aback, returning her look with one that said, "Very nice, my friend". None of the others however, dared say anything else and filtered into their assigned seats, the Swede giving the 'teacher' a small wink of acknowledgement. His own way of saying, "Did you expect anything less?"

"Thank you, Miss Kumi...Now then, let us begin..." stated the professor, launching straight into a lecture on one of the driest subject matters that could possibly be taught: Mathematics. Why these mortals put so much faith in these equations was baffling. "Ugh...Confusing numbers and letters again" muttered the Swede, leaning back in his chair; class just started and he already felt like he was going to lose his mind to boredom. Slowly, the Swede's eyes started to drift to sleep.

Just then, he was jarred awake by a voice playing over the loudspeaker:

"Will Mister Skallagrim please report to the principal's office? Mister Skallagrim, please report to the principal's office."

Well, this took an unexpected turn, thought Njord; his expression was one of puzzlement, and clearly even the professor shared his confusion. "Well, Njord...You better go, I suppose. Can't imagine what you did, considering you weren't here for a while." Njord just shrugged and got up to leave, shooting Kumi a look that said, "Sorry!" before heading out the door. What the hell was going on, he wondered.

Meanwhile, Kenji watched on, his face impassive but his heart jumping with joy. If this worked, Njord would no longer be a student here at this school. No more loud oafishness, no more stealing Katsumi's attention away from him. None of that nonsense.
 
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