First Sage of Buer

by redlox2

In another time Naruto would have happily travelled with Lumine to find her brother but here Naruto found a Goddess trapped by her own people and refused to let it happen. No one would ever get close to hurting her again while he is the First Sage of Buer. tags-Naruto post 4th Ninja war. harem-Nahida(aged up to be a 'mature' full body form, various others including Lumine.

6. 6- Naruto and Nahida

First Sage of Buer

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or Genshin. Naruto is owned by Masashi Kishimoto and Genshin Impact is owned and created by Mihiyo respectively. Certain elements were inspired by various Naruto/Genshin Impact crossover fanfictions.

Posted January 30, 2024(Tuesday)

Word count total- 13029 words!

I had 791 follows, 652 faves and 112 reviews. Now I have 928 follows, 768 faves and 147 reviews! Thanks for 137 follows, 116 faves and 35 reviews!

READING THE FOX SCROLL was taken down on June 24/2021(Thursday). I added a link to its new home on my wattpadd. I used the original docs (hence the Ans) but the format is a bit different due to the different site.

Emails are back again again. Hopefully they stay up but we can never be sure.

I am going to BOLD the 7 elements of Tyvet in this story. I am also boldin Nahida speech as she is talking through the portal which has an affect. Kinda like talking though a cellphone. It will go back to normal when the portal is shut off.

AN1: On suggestion I will ty to put the harem on the top of each Author notes. The List isn't complete as I don't always remember every girl in Genshin.

Also I got quite a few reviews commenting that Naruto was more or less too emotional or out of character when Nahida was mildly insulted. Its still my story but I decided for more or less everyone sake that I would do a toned-down reaction for Naruto in this chapter. (believe me it was going to far more extreme in my original plan). I don't need to justify myself or anything but I will say that Nahida being the first Archon he met and the way he met her (cough sealed away) deeply affected him.

Happy Genshin 4.4 day! Who is pulling for Cloud Retainer and getting Shenhe and Ganyu skins? For me I am getting all three! Since Shenhe is getting a new skin, I decided to add a small cameo of her in the chapter!

If there are girls you guys want you can suggest them after reading my harem list but if I strictly don't want to use them I won't.

Harem:

Lumine

Mondstadt

Jean

Eula

Barbara

Lisa

Amber

Liyue

Yelan

Ningguang

Shenhe

Ganyu

Keqing

Hutao

Yanfei

Yun Jin

Inazuma

Ayaka

Yae Miko

Ei

Kokomi

Kirara

Yoimya

Hiiragi Chisato? (possible as Naruto is pretty influential)

Sumeru

Nahida

Nilou

Candace

Dehya

Layla

Fontaine

Furina

Lynette

Navia

Clorinde

Charlotte

Chapter 6 Naruto and Nahida

Lumine and Paimon looked at each several times and blinked.

"What do you think Lumine? Travelling with Naruto sounds fun but Paimon wanted to ask you first if that is okay?" Paimon chirped as she was grinning ear to ear.

'It will be so fun to tease them both! Lumine is always acting like romance is beneath her since she wants to find her brother but I am going to prove her wrong!' Paimon thought triumphantly in a chibi version of herself. The Chibi clone was smirking evilly and notably had black shading as if it was Paimon's 'dark or true self'.

'Paimon knows that you outright ignore when people you her on dates or when they want to give you special gifts! Ha! Paimon thinks you will singing a different tone if Naruto does that instead! Paimon thinks you will try to leave Paimon at a restaurant but little does Lumine know Paimon will spy on them regardless!' Paimon monologued triumphantly.

Lumine went into a thinking pose trying to resist blushing.

'Travelling together might mean we have to share a tent together… I haven't shared any sort of tent or housing with anyone besides Paimon and Aether and they are basically my family. Sharing housing with Naruto… That would be so embarrassing!' Lumine thought to herself.

Despite her best effort she briefly daydreamed. She imagined waking up to see Naruto asleep with a rather cute expression on his handsome face. His whiskered cheeks were still rather interesting to touch even as he slept and he had a cute drop of drool leaking from his mouth. Lumine silently giggled as Naruto seemed much more normal in his sleep rather than insanely powerful friend when he was awake.

"Lumine…." Naruto moaned while asleep.

Lumine expression turned red as she fanned her head realizing that Naruto was having some sort of dream about her.

"Lumine? Hello! Is anyone in there?" Paimon chanted as she floated up to Lumine ears.

Lumine had spent a few seconds unfocused as she daydreamed a possible scenario if Naruto and her shared a tent.

"Sorry Paimon. I just blanked out for a moment." Lumine claimed as Paimon looked unconvinced.

"Uh huh. Whatever you say. So, what do you think of travelling with Naruto at least for a little while?" Paimon asked with a teasing smile.

It didn't help Paimon looked over in Naruto's direction with her eyebrows wriggling suggestively.

"Should Paimon find something else to do if you and Naruto want to practice kissing or anything?" Paimon suggested as Lumine half heartedly swatted at her with her fist.

Meanwhile Naruto eyes seemed to be blank and his face paled as he looked down with his eyes wide.

"What do you think Lumine and Paimon? I know its pretty sudden but I do believe you travelling together is the best thing for all three of you." Nahida stated with a thoughtful expression as she put a hand on her chin.

Lumine had a slight blush but she nodded with a smile.

"We would be honoured Lady Nahida." Lumine stated simply as she did a slight curtsy towards the God that Naruto worshipped.

"That would awesome! Paimon thinks it would be super fun!" Paimon shouted excitedly.

Paimon did look embarrassed when Lumine smiled softly as she gestured to the crowd and towards the amused looking God of Dendro.

"Oops! I mean we would be honoured to Lady Nahida hehe." Paimon amended as she rubbed her head in embarrassment.

"No need to be so formal. I am glad you are both okay with this arrangement. It would settle my heart to know that Naruto is in good hands." Nahida stated with a sigh of relief.

Nilou smiled but then she looked at Naruto who was bent over and shaking making her frown.

'Lord Naruto? Oh no! I think Lady Nahida forgot what she is suggesting could be taken the wrong way by someone as devoted as Lord Naruto!' Nilou thought in worry.

"Nilou? Is something thematter?' Nahida asked as she noticed her follower and Sumeru city local celebrity looking worried.

The group turned to the beautiful redhead who frowned and bit her lip.

"My Lady. Forgive me but I think you made an error in judgement." Nilou soft musical voice stated with a hesitant tone.

Nahida tilted her head but didn't look angry but more curious.

"How so Nilou? Feel free to speak your mind." Nahida stated with her eyes shining as if she was excited to hear the answer.

Nilou sighed crossing her arms over her chest much to the excitement of the men in the crowd. This had the effect of making her own sizable chest even bigger looking and highlighting her well toned stomach with her dancer outfit didn't cover.

"Please just take a look at Lord Naruto. You should have discussed this with him beforehand." Nilou stated as she kept her arms crossed but gestured towards Naruto with her head.

Nahida and everyone turned to Naruto who had curled into a ball with his head on her knees in a submissive position. The most odd thing however was that somehow without anyone noticing he created a 10 foot hole in the middle of the platform with him just rocking himself back and forth with his head down.

'How did he do that? Can he use Geo on a level that is so subtle that it doesn't need to create to move the earth itself?' Ningguang thought in amazement as despite being distracted by Nahida and Nilou she was sure that she would have noticed the ground being displaced.

"She doesn't need me anymore…. I am useless… Everything I did doesn't mean anything." Naruto whispered as his bangs covered his eyes but his mouth showed pure depression.

"Oh geez. I should have expected this after all. He has always been like this before. Needing someone to need him." Kurama sighed as rested his chin on his palm with only one eye open.

Naruto didn't seem to notice anything as he kept his head down even as crowd appeared around the hole he created.

"Hey Naruto!" Paimon shouted.

"Naruto! Please come up!" Lumine added but Naruto didn't respond.

Nahida sighed but did look rather sad as the viewing bubble she was using adjusted itself to show Naruto from above in his self-imposed hole of depression.

'Is this really the same guy who slayed a God? I mean he acts abit clingy to be honest.' Keqing thought to herself although she did look concerned.

Ningguang and Ganyu exchanged a look before Ningguang nodded to herself. She gathered Geo energy in the palm of her hand nodding when it appeared with a brown glow.

"Pardon me." Ningguang asked kindly as the group parted so Ningguang could approach the hole without any interruptions.

"I am not 100% sure what has bothered noble hero Naruto but as part of the Qixing I cannot in good favour allow him to suffer. I will bring him up and whatever he needs to express I will be the one to offer him a shoulder to lean on." Ningguang declared with a warm smile.

This got the crowd to cheer although a few men did look abit envious the beautiful Geo user was offering personal comfort to the hero of Liyue. Lumine pouted while Paimon just giggled in amusement.

Unseen except to Nahida careful eyes Nilou briefly grit her teeth. An annoyed frown appeared on her beautiful face as she resisted glaring at the mature leader of Liyue.

"Hmph. If anyone should comfort Lord Naruto it should be me. He deserves someone who can truly understand him not someone who just knows of him." Nilou whispered angrily.

Nilou blinked before a calm smile on her kind face like usual. She did see Nahida give her a knowing smile as she both focused on what was happening in Liyue and Nilou at the same time.

'Ah young love. It is such a precious thing. Not that I can judge her after all.' Nahida thought to herself in amusement before smiling more sincerely to herself.

'After all I am trying to be more mature for his sake. I don't mind this me at all and despite what he tells me I truly believe an older me would work better for us.' Nahida mused revealing her attempts to be in a more adult form were for Naruto's sake.

Ningguang leapt forward in a graceful jump with Geo energy gathered in her right hand in the ready. She was about to get into the hole that Naruto created only to be stopped.

"What? How?" Ningguang asked in surprise as the crowd looked wide eyed.

Ningguang was now literally standing on top of the hole as if she was standing on solid ground. This was despite the hole not showing getting filled in or shifted in any way. Ningguang blinked before she tapped her heel several times at the hole only for her foot to remain afloat.

"It is solid. This is surprising. It is almost like I am standing on the air itself." Ningguang stated as she frowned and crossed her arms under her generous bust after dismissing the Geo energy in her palm.

"Is this an application of Anemo or rather… wind chakra I believe he calls it?" Ganyu whispered to Keqing who looked contemplative.

"Hmm. I suppose there is only one way to find out." Keqing announced after a moment much to Ganyu surprise.

"What are you planning Lady Keqing?" Ganyu asked hesitantly as she looked uneasy as the purple haired young woman.

Paimon and Lumine noticed the two women and Paimon yelped when she saw Keqing summon her sword from mid air twirling it with her right hand.

"Keqing?!" Paimon shouted as Lumine stood in front of her protectively.

"Please move out of the way!" Keqing asked firmly but politely as the crowd yelped and cleared the way for the Qixing.

Zhongli frowned at her with a giggling Hutao gently pushing him away.

"Come on Mr. Zhongli! A helpless mortal like yourself should stay out of the way, right?" Hutao teased with a wriggle of her eyebrows when she said 'mortal'.

Zhongli could read the hidden lines in between.

'Except you aren't mortal are you Mr. Zhongli.' Zhongli could almost imagine Hutao mouthing in his head.

"Of course, Director. After you." Zhongli stated easily as he let himself by lead by the energetic and eccentric director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.

Keqing sword sparked with Electro power as the purple electricity flowed and hissed throughout the blade.

"Ningguang! Out of the way!" Keqing shouted as she leapt forward sword in hand.

Ningguang looked up with narrowed eyes before she nodded. She leapt out of the way landing gracefully a few feet away. Keqing yelled as she slammed her Electro infused sword with all her strength at the seemingly solid hole.

Everyone covered their eyes as their appeared to be an explosion and smoke screen from the powerful strike.

"Eep! Paimon didn't know that Keqing was this powerful!" Paimon panted as she hid behind Lumine who had put her sword out as protection with one hand and the other used to cover her face.

"Thank the Lord of Geo for Lady Keqing! Beautiful and powerful!" A man stated with eyes in heart shaped showing his admiration and crush on the purple haired woman.

"Yeah, there is no way that hole is still intact! Okay that sounded weird but you get what I mean!" A woman stated as several adults around her laughed.

Ningguang frowned when she heard cursing from inside the dust cloud.

"Dammit! How can this be?" Keqing angry tone shone through even as electricity slowly surged in the smoke cloud.

Suddenly the electricity surged enough to blow away the dust cloud revealing Keqing Electro infused sword hitting the hole but getting stopped as if the seemingly empty space was impenetrable.

"How can this be? Lady Keqing is one of the most powerful Vison users in Liyue and she cannot penetrate that space?" Ganyu asked in surprise as her mouth was open in shock. AN2:

'Perhaps that space is being held up by some sort of Anemo power? Still, I never heard of Anemo being used in such a method. Its almost like a barrier of some sort.' Yelan silently thought as she had jumped onto some rooftops to get a better view but she was still hidden in the shadows.

"Perhaps that hole is not an empty as we believed? Perhaps there is a barrier or seal of some sort protecting Naruto or at least keeping everyone else out?" Ningguang suggested after a moment of analyzing.

Keqing sword was still infused with Electro but it seemed to hit the hole to no avail even as some of the Electro recoiled behind her and sparked around her.

"Why can't I get through?!" Keqing screamed in frustration as each word she swung her sword at the invisible barrier.

If Naruto heard the frustrated woman he didn't seem to notice as he appeared to be having a mini break down keeping his head down on his knees.

"She doesn't need me… She is pushing me away…" Naruto mumbled in what seemed to be a fixed and continuous state.

"Help me out Lady Ganyu! You cannot possibly think leaving our hero down there by himself is a good thing?" Keqing shouted as she looked up at the frowning Ganyu.

Ganyu crossed her arms but looked down at the hole with concern.

'He looks like he is suffering or perhaps he is simply lonely?' Ganyu thought to herself worried.

'Perhaps he needs a hug? I have heard mortal men like getting hugs from attractive women even if the woman has no interest in the courting them.' Ganyu thought to herself before shaking her head.

'Ah right. Its now considered 'dating' and it appears to be much less formal than proposals of old Liyue.' Ganyu corrected herself with a cute Chibi face rubbing her head in her mind.

"Very well. Lady Ningguang. Please assist us as well. We shall hit the barrier from 3 sides with continuous force." Ganyu suggested as she summoned her bow and the arrow tip started to gather Cyro energy.

Lumine and Paimon turned to Ningguang who was standing a few feet back from the barrier looking at the beautiful Geo user with worry.

"Won't that be dangerous?" Paimon asked hesitatingly as she hovered just above Lumine's head.

Lumine looked even more concerned although Ningguang noted the younger looking blonde was looking squarely at Naruto for a moment.

"Sigh. As much as I would love to just talk to our saviour, he appears to have isolated himself. I cannot allow myself to let him grieve on his own. Paimon, I understand your concerns but I swear on the Qixing name we will only shatter the barrier so I can take him out. No harm shall come to him. You have my word." Ningguang promised as she put a hand over her large chest.

Paimon looked at Lumine who frowned after seeing Ningguang chest bounce slightly from her actions but nodded.

"Thank you. We shall have Naruto with us in just a few minutes." Ningguang stated with a warm smile.

'Lumine is so easy to read. Her attraction to our local hero and her jealously of me is shining in her actions and her eyes.' Ningguang mused with a mental smirk.

Ningguang walked across from Keqing as Ganyu walked to the other side as they formed a triangle over the barrier.

"Now we shall attack on my mark but before we start, I need to know we are just going after the barrier, correct? Naruto will not be hurt from any attacks or shockwaves?" Ningguang asked with her eyes closed but her smile seemed to be eerily calm and frightening.

'Okay I can see how she could be the 'true' leader of Liyue. She actually pretty scary behind that beautiful face.' Lumine thought nervously while the crowd was cheering on their beloved Qixing.

'Ah little Ningguang showing her leadership. A true gem in the rough.' Zhongli thought with a hidden small smile of pride.

However, his ever so inquisitive Director caught the smile as her eyes shone with amusement and curiosity.

'That look is not one of lust or desire like so many men in Liyue give to our lovely Qixing Ningguang.' Hutao thought with a hint of jealousy of Ningguang natural mature beauty specifically her chest and long legs.

'Not that I am jealous or anything as that would be unbecoming of the Director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. I am just stating what people are thinking anyways.' Hutao added as if she was convincing herself.

Hutao looked carefully out of the corner of her eyes to stare at Zhongli who appeared too distracted to steel his face to the normal careful polite expression he always had.

'The look in his eyes is a father who is proud of his daughter or rather a look of pure fatherly pride.' Hutao mused as she added this to another 'hint' on her theory that Zhongli was not a normal human but rather an Adepti in hiding.

"Yes Lady Ningguang. I would never think of hurting the hero Naruto Uzumaki with my attacks stray or otherwise." Lady Ganyu bowed with her eyes closed showing her respect for the younger but outwardly more confident woman.

"Thank you, Lady Ganyu." Ningguang stated with a bow as well before she got up to look at the unimpressed Keqing.

"And you Lady Keqing?" Ningguang asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Sigh… Do you have to ask?" Keqing retorted with a mild frown.

"Keqing…" Ningguang asked this time abit more forcibly with her arms crossed now.

Keqing bit her lip before sighing.

"Fine! If you need me to say it out loud. I swear on Liyue name and future that the attacks will at the barrier itself and not at Naruto!" Keqing promised with a slight sass in her tone showing her annoyance.

Ningguang nodded as the three women gathered elemental energy with their visions glowing.

"Then let us begin." Ningguang stated.

Ningguang opened her arms out as Geo energy formed in between them in a series of large rocks that glowed the same brown colour as her Vision. Keqing summoned her sword as once again purple Electro energy glowed through her sword but this time seemed to expand beyond the length of the sword almost manifesting as an angry cat. AN3:

Hidden in the shadows Yelan was tempted to help her dear friend Ningguang as she had summoned her bow but sighed shaking her head.

'That is not how I do things plus I feel Ningguang herself would be pleased if I stepped in.' Yelan thought to herself as she dismissed her personal bow and simple decided to watch.

Ningguang launched several massive Geo rocks with the wave of her arm, Ganyu sent out a massive Cryo arrow which exploded into a small barrage of smaller but multiple Cryo arrows and Keqing sent a beam of Electro from her sword which she swung with a double handed swipe of her sword. Unseen to all their various Geo, Cyro and Electro Visions seemed to glow with power more then usual as if they were happy or at least pleased to be used.

Lumine held her sword in front of her with one hand as she used the other to cover her eyes as Paimon held onto Lumine's arm as she floated behind Lumine. The crowd run away a few more feet as massive explosion of Geo, Cryo and Electro hit the barrier of wind from their combined barrage of attacks. Even the three ladies who used the attacks were forced to cover their eyes and brace themselves from recoil from their attacks.

"Did we do it?" Ningguang asked as she blinked as the entire square was covered in smoke from their explosions.

"We must have! We hit that thing with everything we had!" Keqing stated confidently as she swung her sword in triumph.

"I hope Lord Naruto is okay." Ganyu whispered before blushing when she realized she added 'Lord' to Naruto's name.

Zhongli had taken cover with Hutao who mischievously seemed to cause a panic.

"Eep! That is a massive explosion! Protect us from above Lord of Geo! Please save us Rex Lapis!" Hutao screamed even as Zhongli could briefly see the mischievous smirk and glint in the younger woman's eyes.

'There is a certain irony in asking for the Lord of Geo protection in front of the Lord of Geo.' Zhongli thought drily.

'Not that this little one was in real danger.' Zhongli mused as his eyes briefly seemed to glow Amber as he analyzed the situation through the smoke.

'The power of the Vision regardless of type is dependent on the user's ambitions and will power. The more you use to use the Vision for your goals the more it will grant you power. The more you bond and dream the stronger you will become over time.'Zhongli mused to himself as he commented on the link between Vision and Vision holder. AN4:

'I could sense their resolve. They were sincerely trying their best and were focused on 'freeing' Naruto from his self-imposed prison.' Zhongli mused with a slight fatherly expression of pride before he sighed softly.

'However, in my opinion it is not enough. One cannot make that man do something if he does not wish to do so. Hence, he will not leave that hole unless he is ready to leave.' Zhongli noted as he schooled his expression.

"Please try to not cause a panic director. It seems that we are all fine." Zhongli stated in his normal polite and calm expression as the role assigned to the 'Consultant to the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor'.

Hutao pouted cutely before she turned to the smoke which was slowly clearing.

"Hmm Mr. Zhongli?" Hutao asked as her smile turned warmer even as the crowd gasped.

Zhongli looked at the smoke with a solemn expression but did give the shorter Director a glance out the corner of his eye.

"What is it Director?" Zhongli replied back.

Hutao gave an impressed whistle as the smoke cleared.

"Naruto just gets more and more interesting. To be honest I could see myself giving him my heart." Hutao remarked cheerfully with a wink and head tilt.

Zhongli raised an eyebrow as he crossed his arms.

"I see Director. I shall keep that in mind." Zhongli stated.

Much to Ningguang, Ganyu and Keqing shock the barrier had remained intact and now even appeared to give off 'angry' blue electricity surrounding it.

"Impossible. That was our best and we couldn't even scratch it?" Ganyu asked with wide eyes.

Paimon saw the electricity and gasped making sure Lumine was still in between her and any effects.

"Eep! That electricity looks scary!" Paimon screamed while Lumine was on guard.

Lumine took a moment to study the electricity before shaking her head.

"That power…. It seems only interested in protecting Naruto. Not attacking us." Lumine pointed out as she pointed at the electricity was zapped but only stayed within a foot of the barrier.

Ningguang and Ganyu had started to shoot Geo constructs and Cyro arrows at the barrier from afar but now the electricity had bent around to stop even those attacks from even approaching the barrier now.

Keqing frowned as she crossed her arms in annoyance.

"So how do we get him out if we can't even approach him now?" Keqing asked with a frown.

The three-woman looked at each other with uncertain and frustrated looks. Even Lumine showed slight concern at the seemingly impenetrable barrier.

"You don't. Or rather you can't." Nilou sweet voice answered from the portal.

Everyone turned back to the portal where the beautiful red-haired dancer stood there with a concerned but also resigned look on her pretty face. Her arms were crossed under her chest much to the joy of most of the men in the crowd as she gently swayed on the balls of her heels absentmindedly.

"Lord Naruto's barrier even the ones he is not aware he is making are super strong. They cannot seem to be breached no matter how powerful you are." Nilou stated sombrely before a small smile appeared.

"Cyno has tried many times before at Lord Naruto and Lady Nahida's request and he has yet to breach the barrier even once." Nilou commented with a giggle as he remembered how grumpy Cyno was despite Naruto attempts to make him feel better. She also remembered Cyno flatly telling her to 'stop enabling her boyfriend' when she had giggled at his attempts.

'I am glad I shut him up afterwards.' Nilou thought happily as she had chased Cyno throughout Zubayr Theater with her sword that had kept hidden somehow much to the amusement of Naruto and even Nahida. AN5:

When asked where she carried a sword especially with how much skin was exposed on her outfit Nilou would just wink and playfully say 'secret' making Naruto laugh.

"Matter of fact I still remember hearing about the barrier Lord Naruto created when he first went to Lady Nahida and…." Nilou started before Nahida coughed loudly.

"That is enough Nilou. No need to speak about that my dear." Nahida chided politely but with a notable stern tone making Nilou wince as she bowed her head.

"Of course, my lady. Forgive me for speaking out of term." Nilou stated with a polite curtsey as well showing her respect for her Archon.

Nobody besides Nilou out the corner Nahida eyes narrowing and her small hands clenching in anger. Just a moment Nahida showed true anger as her eyes glowed a dark green. Nahida blinked before a smile appeared as she waved Nilou off with a gentle wave of her hand.

"Oh Nilou. I didn't mean to chide you. It's alright. Please stand up. I consider you important to me after all." Nahida stated warmly as she closed her eyes and Nilou bowed before standing behind her like before.

While most of the crowd found the scene adorable especially with Nahida softer voice and child like appearance, Lumine eyes were narrowed as she bit her lip. Paimon was oblivious to her travelling partner and best friend analyzing the situation.

'The way Nilou was talking implied that Naruto used some sort of barrier in the past that was rather strong. At least as strong as the barrier that is surrounding him now if she declared them both to not be breach able.' Lumine noticed before a small frown appeared on her face.

Lumine shifted her attention to Nahida who appeared to be cheerful and kind but she couldn't get the imagine of Nahida angered face that lasted a few seconds as she chided Nilou for speaking out of line.

'However, Nahida stopped her before she could finish the story. Nahida actually looked mad for that brief moment as if Nilou story was something she didn't want to get out. Perhaps its part of the shameful past that Naruto alluded to about Sumeru?' Lumine thought to herself before she mentally tilted her head.

'But why would a story involving Naruto be something Nahida is ashamed of? Didn't Naruto help Nahida in the past a lot? So many questions and so few answers. Just what happened with Naruto and Nahida in the past?' Lumine thought to herself in curiosity.

Paimon thoughts however were much simpler and more honest.

'Wow Nahida seems to be really nice! I wonder if she is as responsible and kind as Nilou is implying? I guess anything is better then Venti being a drunken Bard half the time or Zhongli choosing to pretending to be dead now.' Paimon thought to herself drily when she thought of Venti and Zhongli.

Keqing was looking at Nahida with interest as she put a hand underneath her chin.

'The God of Sumeru is this little child? I know Rex Lapis has had many forms in the past but I always assumed that like Zhongli they all had a certain maturity to them. However, this God appears rather innocent and kind. I almost envy Sumeru for having a God like her in their midst.' Keqing thought with a tiny smile.

Ganyu resisted blushing when she aw how cute the God of Sumeru was as she had to constantly suppress the urge to pat her cheeks in embarrassment.

'How cute! Eep! If Cloud Retainer saw me like this, she would scold me for not acting like a dignified Adepti… Although I do think she sometimes forgets I am half mortal as well and thus I do have their greater range of emotions as well.' Ganyu thought to herself as an imagine of Cloud Retainer appeared in her mind.

'Young one. This behaviour is not befitting of one such as yourself. One does remember when you were a child and much chubbier than you are currently.' Cloud Retainer would begin a rant about Ganyu childhood much to her own chagrin.

'That woman….' Ganyu thought sourly as she knew no matter how many times she asked Cloud Retainer she would be more then happy to give embarrassing stories about her to people like Lumine and Paimon.

Ningguang however kept her own feelings about Nahida appearance in the back of her mind and coughed getting Nilou and Nahida attention.

"Miss Nahida." Ningguang started only to pause when she saw Nilou beautiful face turned into a frown as she put her hands on her hips.

"Excuse me… Um…." Nilou started fumbling when she realized she didn't actually know Ninggaung name as Ningguang smiled waving her off.

"Ningguang. Nice to meet you Nilou." Ningguang greeted putting her arm over her chest in greeting.

Nilou was tempted to correct Ningguang rather informal title for Nahida calling her 'miss' not 'Lady' but she saw Nahida look at her expectantly out the corner of her eyes making her relent.

"Uh… I just wanted to introduce myself properly hehe…" Nilou stated awkwardly rubbing the back of her head and swaying on her feet in nervousness.

Ningguang could tell Nilou was probably lying but decided to let it slide to let Nilou retain face in front of her God.

"Yes Ningguang? Is there something wrong?" Nahida chirped with her eyes glittering with curiosity.

Ningguang bit her lip as she looked over at the hole where Naruto was still mumbling to himself incoherently.

"If we cannot breach the barrier Naruto has surrounded himself with, how do we get Naruto out? I do not think it would be healthy to leave him in such a state." Ningguang asked hesitantly crossing her arms over her large chest.

Everyone looked over at Nahida and Nilou with interest. Nilou actually looked abit sad as she exchanged a look with Nahida who looked deep in concentration.

'That is how I am wondering too. I have never seen anyone actually breach the barrier from the outside and it usually takes Lord Naruto himself to deactivate it himself from either inside or outside the barrier.' Nilou thought in worry.

"Hmm… That is a good question. To be honest that barrier itself was made by Naruto unconsciously when he fell into a depression from misunderstanding my words. I do not believe he knew he created it but as long as he has the mindset, he is in right now he will stay in there."Nahida admitted with a sigh.

'I should not have put the news on his shoulders like that in public. I should have told him face to face like a good friend would. I will have to explain carefully when he wakes up.' Nahida silently admitted.

Lumine and Paimon exchanged worried looks as Lumine bit her lip.

"Eep! If someone as smart of the God of Wisdom cannot figure him to get Naruto out then what chance do we have?" Paimon whined as Lumine tried to put on a brave face but her worry was visible in her eyes.

"Don't worry Paimon. We haven't known Naruto for long but we are not going to leave him in that hole. I can promise you that." Lumine assured her as Paimon slowly nodded.

"My Lady? Is there anything we can do?" Nilou whispered to the young-looking God who closed her eyes.

'Despite Naruto's sheer strength and abilities making him far beyond what people can consider 'strong' he really is a gentle soul like me. He is far more sensitive than people outside of Sumeru know. That is one of the many reasons I love him after all.' Nahida thought to herself happily. AN6:

"If we thinking this rationally, we cannot force Naruto to leave. He is so focused right now even my voice cannot reach him."Nahida noted with finality tone as she opened her eyes.

"However, there might be a way for us to get Naruto to focus back on reality and leave the barrier of his own free will." Nahida announced much to the shock of everyone including.

'What way is my Lady talking about? I have never heard of such a method.' Nilou thought with wide eyes.

"There is? That's great! The God of Wisdom is super smart after all!" Paimon cheered as Lumine let out a sigh of relief.

Nilou eyes followed Nahida expression which appeared to be cheerful but Nahida's eyes appeared to be far away in contemplation.

"My Lady? What are you….?" Nilou asked as Nahida gave her a small smile.

"This is the only way." Nahida told her gently as she started to walk towards the ripple in air and towards Liyue through it.

This made Nilou jump to her feet as she started to run after the little God.

"Wait my Lady! You mustn't! Stop!" Nilou shouted in fear and distress as she tried to grab Nahida's arm.

Nahida merely raised a hand towards Nilou and her hand glowed with Dendro energy. Nilou gasped as she stopped instantly and struggled to move.

"I appreciate the concern Nilou. I really do but I have to do this for Naruto. Thank you for trying to stop me." Nahida stated sadly as she gave a small smile to the bound Nilou who was struggling to move.

"My Lady please! There has to be another way!" Nilou begged but Nahida just shook her head.

"I have thought it through and if this brings Naruto back then I will gladly pay the price." Nahida assured her as she continued to walk towards the ripple.

While this was going on Ningguang, Ganyu and Keqing were looking surprised at the seemingly falling out between Nahida and Nilou.

"What's happening? Isn't Nahida her God so why was Nilou trying to stop her?" Keqing wondered out loud with a hand to her chin.

"Hey Nilou! Please explain to us what is happening right now!" Keqing shouted bluntly making Ganyu sigh.

Nilou continued to struggle but finally looked directly at the people from Liyue with a distressed look.

"Lady Nahida is going to try to go through the portal and enter Liyue from this side!" Nilou informed them making everyone surprised.

"You can enter from one side of this ripple and end up on the other side like teleportation? That is something incredibly advanced and would have so many different applications." Lumine noted with notable impressed look on her face.

"Wow Lady Nahida is so cool! Paimon thinks you could eat cooking from Liyue one minute and then walk through that portal and eat cooking from Mondstadt the next!" Paimon cheered looking like she was drooling at just the idea.

Lumine gave a small smile and had to resist sweat dropping at Paimon simply mind.

'I guess its comforting that even in this situation Paimon is Paimon and Paimon thinks with her stomach.' Lumine thought to herself.

"Incredible. The distance between Liyue and Sumeru is rather great and the idea you can connect the two places and walk instantly from place to place is something astounding." Ganyu noted before she briefly looked far into the distance.

'To be honest I don't think even the other Adepti like Cloud Retainer would have thought of or let alone implemented this sort of innovation.' Ganyu remarked to herself.

Much to everyone surprise the pretty and kind red headed dancer suddenly got angry as she tried to rush towards Nahida. Much to Nilou annoyance without even looking Nahida put one hand towards her. This caused roots formed from Dendro energy bound Nilou to the ground.

"Stop my Lady! You can't! Please we can find another way!" Nilou begged even as she forced onto her knees with her arms bound behind her back.

"Forgive me. My sweet Nilou but for Naruto I have to do this." Nahida stated sadly as she kept her head forward looking at the portal but Nilou could feel Nahida sympathy and regret flowing out of the young looking Archon.

"Waah! What is happening? Why is Lady Nahida binding Nilou to the ground and why is Nilou acting so scared?" Paimon yelled out hiding behind Lumine who summoned back her sword by instinct and put in front of her.

"What is going here?" Keqing asked as she and Ganyu summoned their weapons as well.

Zhongli unseen to everyone studied the reaction of his 'old friend Buer' with narrowed eyes.

'Her reaction…. The reaction of her subordinate Miss Nilou… That portal itself…. Is it possible that?' Zhongli thought as he felt the urge to stop Nahida enter him.

"The portal isn't stable! Its only meant to show a person from one side to another and their voice! Its not meant for people to enter from one side to another!" Nilou revealed as she continued to struggle against the roots to no avail.

This shocked everyone as Nahida closed her eyes and sighed.

"It's not impossible for this sort of portal to be made into a stable connection. It's just at this point all we have been able to be do is a sort of video from both sides." Nahida tried to explain but Nilou shook her head.

"It doesn't matter if it could be stable! The thing that matters now is that you and Lord Naruto told me that its highly dangerous for anyone to try to enter the portal as it is now!" Nilou insisted as she looked close to tears.

Nahida stayed quiet and continued to walk towards the portal with a look of determination.

Lumine felt helpless as much as she wanted to protest due to how kind Nahida seemed and how much Naruto seemed to respect her, Lumine knew she could not physically stop Nahida while in Liyue.

'Dammit. Buer! This kind of recklessness is not like you! Is this boy that important to you that you would willingly put yourself in harm's way to help him from his slumber? You were always the most gentle of the 7 of us but you were also the most wise!' Zhongli or rather Morax himself thought in despair. He wanted to scream to the heavens themselves to convince his friend to reconsider but he still had to keep his cover that Morax had died and was not walking among Liyue still. AN7:

Nahida put her hand outwards and into the portal only to wince when there was ugly blue electricity sparking out and hitting her right hand. She pulled her hand revealing it was now burnt and sizzling and there was smoke coming from the wound. The wound covered about half of her small arm as a small trail of blood leaked down it despite the burn covering the majority of her arm.

"Ow. So, the portal itself is rejecting my attempt to go through. It really isn't meant for travel yet. I suppose it was only to be expected." Nahida noted with a wince as she had a look of grimace on her young-looking face.

"My lady! Are you alright?" Nilou asked looking up as the roots seemed to recede allowing Nilou to stand up.

Nahida smiled weakly as she quickly looked past Nilou and past the range shown by the portal. She quickly nodded to Cyno who had been watching and waiting the entire time.

'Don't interfere please. We need Naruto to sense my injuries.' Nahida mouthed sending a mental command to the General Mahamatra who frowned but nodded and bowed to his Goddess.

"Lady Buer! Are you alright?" Ganyu shouted in worry seeing the Archon with a burn on her hand.

Unseen by the others Naruto head perked up as he opened his eyes in confusion. Naruto seemed to ignore or not notice anything else but his eyes were wide.

'This feeling…. Nahida? I can feel her distress and pain!' Naruto grabbed his chest over his heart.

"Nahida is hurt?! No more! Not again!" Naruto shouted as his eyes got a slit similar to Kurama's eyes. Naruto also got a golden yellow aura and cloak.

"Everyone! Something is going on with Naruto!" Ningguang yelled as everyone turned to the hole where Naruto was.

Everyone had to cover their eyes and take a few steps back as a bright yellow light emanated from hole where Naruto had buried himself.

"What is this presence? Its so heavy and strong! Like a God?" Keqing wondered out loud as she felt something somewhat similar when in the presence of Osial the former Water God.

Zhongli eyes widened before a small smile appeared on his face.

'Ah young Naruto hidden powers. Now I can see at least why young Naruto is considered the Knight of Buer and Sumeru. With this power he can keep the entire nation safe.' Zhongli silently decided with a hint of pride.

Naruto's powerful light seemed to stream past the barrier of wind he had surrounded himself with. Without moments the light intensified as the light shattered the barrier. Naruto started to float up bathed in that same light as everyone was thrown back a few feet from the wind his light infused form was releasing.

"Nahida…. I will protect you… No matter what or who hurts you." Naruto stated deeply as his eyes were closed.

Naruto turned his head towards Sumeru before he zipped through the air at speed so fast everyone could only at best describe as a 'yellow blur'. There appeared to be a sonic boom as everyone covered their eyes and had to kneel to the ground to avoid being topped over from the burst of speed.

'Is this really Naruto? He feels completely different then before. Like a powerful but calm aura is pushing down me right now. He also shattered the barrier three vision users couldn't even scratch just from releasing this power.' Lumine thought as she squinted behind her fingers.

After a few moments the light had dimmed enough for people to slowly begin blinking and opening their eyes.

"Is everyone alright? Is anyone hurt?" Ningguang quick to recover and show her concern for her citizens and guests.

The people of Liyue were abit shaken up but quickly assured the mature woman there was no injuries making her sigh in relief.

"What power… To think a mortal could have this sort of strength and speed." Ganyu mumbled with a notable look of discomfort and awe on her face as she crossed her arms over her chest.

Hutao was blinking as she gazed briefly at Zhongli who look of pride had quickly turned back to polite disinterest when he saw her looking.

'Mr. Zhongli has a great poker face but I can tell he was definitely interested in Naruto's power. Not that I can blame him. I can definitely see how he could take down an ancient God like Osial.' Hutao mused with a knowing smile making Zhongli very briefly scowl making her smile turn wider.

Hutao then looked at the portal before she jumped up and down in surprise getting everyone attention.

"What is it Hutao? Is there something you need to share with us?" Keqing asked with a hint of exasperation at the eccentric and quirky Director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.

Ganyu and Ningguang had the curtesy of at least waving to the younger woman with a friendly smile.

"Lady Keqing. You might want to watch the portal. It seems that something is happening with Miss Nahida." Hutao chirped seemingly unaware or unaffected at Keqing exasperated tone.

Everyone quickly turned to Nahida who was still nursing her burnt hand while Nilou was fussing over it much to everyone amusement at the young woman fussing over the younger looking Archon. Nahida looked up with a look of satisfaction and smugness.

"Here he comes." Nahida commented as Nilou blinked before she gasped.

"Lord-" Nilou started before there was sudden burst of wind making her close her eyes on reflex.

Everyone could see the effects of the wind mostly as Nilou and Nahida both had to use a hand to keep their skirts from blowing and possibly unintentionally flashing especially towards the people on the other side of the portal. The men could not hide their disappointment of not getting a panty show from the beautiful red headed dancer to the disgust of the women around them. Lumine herself was almost tempted to hold her own skirt down by reflex. Despite her thigh high boots there was a gap in her white dress that did only reach her upper thighs that could in theory blow upwards and flash the people around her.

Naruto had lost his golden yellow aura but it was clear that the wind was from him from his speed as he picked up Nahida in a princess/bride embrace. He held her small body against his chest while he put one arm beneath her knees and the other gently held her injured arm with his hand.

"Lady Nahida…. I have returned." Naruto stated calmly with a look of deep respect and admiration in his blue eyes.

"Naruto…" Nahida gasped as a tiny blush appeared on her face from the position and how much she enjoyed being in his arms.

Nilou just smiled not wanting to ruin the reunion between lady Nahida and her first Sage/Knight Naruto. Despite her genuine happiness she could not help but briefly look away in sadness at the affectionate scene.

'Is this what it feels like to be jealous? I know I should be happy that Lord Naruto is back and that Lady Nahida has her knight back…. But as selfish as it is I wish it was me in his arms and that he would come back to Sumeru just for me.' Nilou thought sadly before she blinked and a warm smile appeared on her beautiful face.

'Hmm I guess its okay if I feel these feelings of jealousy. It just means that I truly love Lord…. No just Naruto. The man who stole my heart and makes me feel every dance I make is for him.' Nilou decided as she just continued to smile at the sweet scene.

Ningguang sent a death glare at the residents of Liyue as if to dare someone to ruin this tender moment between the Knight and his Archon. AN8:

Everyone could almost hear her saying 'Ruin this moment for our saviour and I will ruin you finically. You know I can and will.' This of course made everyone silent as a mouse as they desperately tried to avoid the beautiful white haired woman glare.

'Paimon wants to say something but Paimon is afraid of Ningguang! What if Ningguang bans Paimon from eating at Liyue! Paimon won't be able to enjoy all that yummy food!' Paimon thought in worry in a rather simple thought bubble.

Lumine however felt an ugly and uncomfortable feeling reaching and bubbling in her chest.

'What is this feeling? It feels so weird. It's almost like I don't want Naruto to carry Lady Nahida like that but why would I care about something like that?' Lumine thought in frustration as she had never experienced this sort of feeling despite her incredible long-life span and countless adventures.

Seeing how Nahida looked incredibly content and happy in Naruto's arms, Lumine could not help but have a tiny blush as she imagined herself in Nahida's position. Being treated as a Princess and having all of Naruto's attention even if it was only for a short while.

'Bad Lumine! Naruto isn't your boyfriend! It's not like you are dating and you can ask him to do that sort of thing with you! Plus, even if we were dating it's not like I would want to be held in such a tender way!' Lumine thought in denial not used to and not accepting the idea of jealousy being the reason she felt abit annoyed at Nahida.

Naruto seemed to only focus on Nahida before his gaze turned to her burnt arm which Nahida tried unsuccessful to shift away from his gaze. Naruto shifted her enough so her right arm was now resting against him and his right hand could linger above it.

"Your arm…. It was burnt from trying to cross the unstable portal huh?" Naruto asked gently but from his tone Nahida could tell he already knew.

"It must hurt huh? Sorry about that." Naruto apologized before his hand grew blue and he pressed it against her injured arm.

Less then a minute later Nahida's arm seemed to be fixed as the blood vanished, the burnt mark sizzled and disappeared and the slight cuts were sealed up. Naruto hand glowed for a few more seconds before the glow vanished as Nahida let a sigh of relief as her entire arm had been healed back to full capacity and the pain had vanished.

'This is just like before when he healed my back. However, my wound had already somewhat healed while Nahida's was still fresh but in both cases our injuries were completely sealed without any lasting effects.' Lumine thought to herself as she briefly touched her shoulder with her right hand.

"I knew you would come as soon as I was in pain so had to cause myself abit of pain to get you out of your groove Naruto."Nahida admitted sheepishly as she rubbed the back of her head and gave our a cute tongue pout.

Majority of the citizens of Liyue gave an 'awe' at the young looking Archon with even Ganyu giving a slight giggle at the display.

Naruto however looked down with clear signs of guilt as he bit his lip and dropped down to a knee while still carrying Nahida.

"I am sorry…. You are in pain because of me…. If I was here next to you like I was suppose to be you wouldn't be in pain… Please forgive me my Lady." Naruto begged in a soft tone as he bowed his head in shame.

'Naruto…. This level of devotion is far greater than anyone I have seen towards an Archon so far. Although I guess nobody knows Venti is an Archon and most people think Morax is dead.' Lumine thought to herself as she imagined a crowd of people giving her an odd look if she ever revealed the Gods true identities.

Nilou gave a slight sigh as she released an exasperated sound but Naruto didn't seem to notice. Nahida frowned as she wriggled free and managed to land on her own two feet. Nahida gently placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder as he looked up with guilt ridden eyes while she held a look of compassion in hers.

"You don't need to be on your knees Naruto. There is nothing to apologize for. I chose to take the risk because I knew you would come back home the instant I did. I know you would never allow me to be in any real harms way. But if you need me to say I will." Nahida stated before her eyes glowed and she coughed before making a serious expression.

"Naruto Uzumaki. My Knight and Sage. I Buer God of Dendro and Wisdom and the leader of Sumeru forgive you and ask you raise to you feet by my side once again." Nahida commanded as Naruto got off his knees and bowed to his Archon with a determined look.

"Thank you, my Lady. It is my honour to serve and protect you and Sumeru like always." Naruto stated in a serious tone as he briefly bowed his head once.

Nilou rolled her eyes playfully and crossed her arms.

'He always gets like this when he thinks he disappointed Lady Nahida. He still doesn't understand how valuable and important he is to our God and the entire nation.' Nilou mused showing this was a somewhat common occurrence.

Paimon flew to Lumine's ears with an unimpressed look.

"Is it Paimon or does Naruto get really old fashioned when he is around Nahida? I mean he acting like an actual ancient Knight from medieval ages." Paimon whispered as Lumine.

"It might seem that way Paimon but if that is how Naruto acts around his God we should keep these thoughts to ourselves. It's none of our business." Lumine whispered back gently as Paimon pouted but nodded slowly.

Keqing was partly impressed but also partly annoyed with her arms crossed.

'Its kinda sweet how devoted he is to her but its also weird. Maybe its because Morax rarely makes an appearance in Liyue and none is on the record 'dead' but to see an Archon actively be one of the people in a nation is just odd to me.' Keqing thought with a raised eyebrow.

"Naruto… You won't ever disappoint me. Sure you can be abit…. Well dense and you do have trouble listening what I am actually saying instead of the first part of sentence." Nahida stated sweetly but then stated rather matter of factly.

Naruto head dropped when Nahida gave her blunt assessment of Naruto minor flaws. Nilou smiled sympathetically as she patted Naruto on the shoulder.

"Don't feel too bad Lord Naruto. She told me I should be less nervous when she is around." Nilou whispered into Naruto's ear as Naruto briefly sent her a grin making her beam in response.

"However your loyalty and love your friends and comrades is mountains more then any flaws or shortcomings you could have. You might think you are lucky I am your God but its really the other way around." Nahida admitted proudly as she briefly flickered to her older form to give him a warm and beautiful smile before returning to her youthful form.

"That's right! People in all of Sumeru love and respect you Lord Naruto! You are so important to all of us we couldn't imagine life where you were unhappy! I….. We will do everything in our power to make you happy as well!" Nilou announced fiercely as she thumbed for just a moment allowing the most brief blush to appear on her fair cheeks.

"Nahida… Nilou… Everyone…" Naruto mumbled as he blinked several times before a grin appeared on his face.

"Thank you… for everything." Naruto added warmly.

Naruto eyes seemed to gleam with excitement and mischief as he dashed forward. Before Nilou could react he grabbed her by her wrist and pulled her towards him. Nilou eeped as he placed his hand on her thin waist and the other and the back of her long red hair.

"Lord Naruto!" Nilou shouted in shock and embarrassment as Naruto left a brief but warm kiss on her cheek before he used the hand that was on her hair to gently and sensually stroke her beautiful lips. Nilou face turned redder than her hair as she steam appeared to venting from her cheeks and hair.

"Just a thank you Nilou. We will always be together after all and you are my Sumeru dancer. Don't ever forget that." Naruto stated lustfully smirking at how pretty Nilou was when she was embarrassed.

Everyone in Liyue dropped their jaws at how forward Naruto was acting and the males were insanely jealous when they saw just how affected the beautiful Nilou was enjoying and being affected by it.

However, Nilou, Ningguang, Keqing and even Ganyu all had various looks of jealously and annoyance on their faces. Paimon was smirking secretly filing Lumine jealously in her mind for later teasing.

"Master… Why do I feel the need to discipline the saviour of Liyue despite understanding he should be praised for his aid in Liyue time of need?" Shenhe asked her master/mother figure Cloud Retainer.

Shenhe beautiful face was as emotionless as ever but she was clenching her fist and gritting her teeth but didn't understand why.

All Cloud Retainer could do was sigh as her 'little Shenhe' was acting like a jealous human but couldn't understand or comprehend it due to her red ribbons suppressing her true emotions from appearing.

"Child… One day you will find a reason or person who you will want to protect. One hopes when that day comes you will have access to the emotions regular mortals have. That should allow One to understand the situation so place it in your mind but worry not for now." Cloud Retainer told her ward after a moment.

'Mortals and their need to be 'monogamous'. One does not understand why love should not be expressed freely especially in beings whose lives are full of suffering and loss. Shenhe will have to decide what she feels for the one called Naruto Uzumaki on her own. One cannot tell another how to feel or what love is supposed to be.' Cloud Retainer mused as Shenhe nodded stiffly at Cloud Retainer's words.

Nilou stepped away and eeped when she felt Dendro power leaking from Nahida. Even the hidden Cyno could not help but sweat when the leader of Sumeru was smiling but showing her annoyance.

"Oh Naruto. You should not give people of Liyue the wrong idea. Last time I checked you and little Nilou were not a couple so to speak. Unless you are admitting you are not telling my important information like your current 'relationship' status." Nahida stated politely with a forced smile but her aura of annoyance started to make her Dendro powers hum.

Even the people in Liyue started to inch away from the portals with the men in particular feeling the need to inch away from the irate woman.

'Ah my dear friend Buer is rather upset. I suppose this is a rather human case of jealously. She does not wish for my dear Naruto to show affection to other women especially in her presence. Even the kindest of the Seven has bursts of human anger.' Zhongli noted with a small smile as Hutao smirked in amusement. The Director even had the gall to wave as if it was a live action show happening in front of her.

Naruto however was smiling and grinning like usual although his eyes did soften abit when Nahida looked rather cross with him.

"I haven't hidden anything from you, my Lady. Nilou and I are not a couple but all I did was give Nilou a sign of appreciation for the joy she gives to me and thousands of people throughout Sumeru. I am sure most of her fans would love to give the same if not more affection to her." Naruto stated smoothly winking at Nilou who put her hands behind her back and swayed.

This gave the side effect of making the beautiful red headed dancer seem more innocent and purer especially when she blushed and looked away from Naruto.

'Hmmph! They might wish to kiss or do more sensual things with me but I wouldn't let them get close to me if they had all the Mora in the world!' Nilou silently declared fiercely.

'Also I think Lord Naruto wouldn't let them either… He is the only one who I would…' Nilou thought shyly as she silently liked having Lord Naruto possessive and protective over her.

Nahida continued to give Naruto an unimpressed look as she tapped her foot and crossed her arms.

"Your actions do not seem to indicate that you and Nilou are just friends. I…. rather Sumeru deserves to know if you have breached into a level of intimacy with Nilou!" Nahida snapped with a scowl on her face showing hints of her jealousy in her tone.

Nilou blush vanished as she looked down feeling guilty. She felt conflicted as she had always respected Lady Nahida even in the days where the Akademiya had labelled her as 'Lesser Lord Kusanali' as a sign of mockery for the God's presumed weakened state. AN9: However, she could not deny having feelings of love for Naruto who appeared to have captured Her Goddess heart as well.

Naruto sighed softly at Nahida's jealously realizing he had caused it from his display but then he smirked. Naruto dashed forward in little more a blur in the eyes of the people of Sumeru and Liyue as he knelt down and quickly placed a hand Nahida's little back. Unseen to other's views Naruto's right hand was covered in yellow chakra.

Nahida gasped as she felt a burst of power flow into her as she stood up in her mature form as Naruto stood up so they stood side by side but this time with Nahida mature form being much closer in height to him.

"Forgive me my Lady. I did not mean to upset you." Naruto apologized to his God before he then took her in his arms bringing in close to place a warm kiss on her cheek and a kiss on her hand affectionately.

Nahida stuttered and blushed as she covered her cheeks with her hands once Naruto released his grip on the Goddess as he gave her a warm smile and bow.

"No matter how it seems my Goddess you are incredibly important to me. Please don't forget that ever." Naruto told her with a warm smile and a playful twinkle in his eyes at her flustered look.

Nahida managed to calm herself as she briefly look over at Nilou who had blushed but did not look particularly upset.

"Naruto…. If you must act this way you should act while there isn't a crowd from another nation watching us." Nahida coughed unable to find another reply to give.

Naruto smirked as he waved to the gobstopped people from Liyue.

"I don't mind if they know how important you and Nilou are to me. Its not really a secret in my mind. I think we will be allies and friends with Liyue at some point so little things like this are not worth hiding." Naruto stated cheerfully.

Ningguang was the first to regain her composure as she coughed into her hand.

"Yes… I did not expect this to happen but I suppose Naruto is right. Who Naruto gives affection to is his business and we should respect that." Ningguang suggested as she managed to hide her own jealously incredibly well behind a polite mask that used in politics.

Paimon looked over to Lumine who had managed to steel her face into a polite smile despite her gritting her teeth a minute ago.

"Excellent! Now Lady Nahida… I know I was rather rash and mistook your intentions when you suggested I travelled with Lumine and Paimon before." Naruto admitted with a look of shame before shaking his head.

"Naruto…. I did not mean to indicate you are not welcome here or that you were banished from Sumeru. I meant to say as your Goddess I gave you permission to travel to other lands with travellers like Paimon and Lumine who are already acquainted with." Nahida explained looking at him with sadness at how her words had been misinterpreted.

Naruto blinked before nodding as his face grew serious.

"Can I come back?" Naruto asked quietly as Nahida looked wide eyed before nodding furiously.

"Of course, my Naruto. No matter which lands you travel to or what adventures you have Sumeru will always be your home. You can come back anytime and all of Sumeru will welcome you with open arms. Rain or shine this nation is still your home." Nahida promised him with her arms open to show her sincerity.

Nilou also got her normal confident and sweet smile as she bounced slightly on her face and looked Naruto directly in the eyes.

"Don't forget me too! Without you Lord Naruto Sumeru doesn't feel the same! If you left us forever then… It would be like the Sun only shining half as bright during the day!" Nilou declared before Nahida cough got her to blush.

"Of course, I am not saying you shouldn't travel if you want or anything! I am just saying Sumeru is your home no matter how far you travel so its silly to think you could not return here!" Nilou added sheepishly as she stroked her cheek in embarrassment.

Naruto laughed at Nilou expression finding it rather sweet before he glanced in the shadows where Cyno waited dutifully. Due the angle of the incomplete portal Naruto could see him but the people from Liyue could not see Cyno.

Cyno blinked before looking expectantly at Naruto gave him a meaningful look. Cyno nodded knowing what Naruto wanted from him.

'Keep on protecting them while I am gone in my place. If you need anything just 'summon' me and I will be there.' Was the hidden message between the First Sage of Buer and the Guardian of Sumeru.

Naruto then looked around for a moment before a frown appeared on his face.

"Where is Collei? I don't see her around here." Naruto asked bluntly with a frown as Nilou gulped while Nahida just raised an eyebrow.

"Collei? Is that a girl?" Keqing asked bluntly making Ganyu and Ningguang sigh at her rashness.

Naruto turned around as an easy grin appeared on his face.

"My little sister. She isn't connected by blood but she is as important to me as if she was my blood sister. Collei is sweet and kind but also abit clumsy so I can't help but worry about her whenever I am not around." Naruto admitted freely as he let a sigh of exasperation but had a fond smile showing his affection.

Lumine and Paimon smiled to each other having heard about Collei before from Naruto while the women in Liyue cooed at Naruto sweet older brother side. Zhongli gave a dry chuckle as Hutao just clasped her hands in excitement with a mischievous wink.

'I wonder if Naruto's sister will enjoy pranks? Nothing major of course as Naruto as a guest of Liyue but harmless and fun ones. I have to see next time she happens to come to Liyue!' Hutao vowed playfully.

From the shadows Yelan raised an eyebrow as she had to resist the urge to investigate this new information.

'A sister. Interesting. Normally this is kind of information useful for Ningguang negotiations but I will hold off this time. Naruto Uzumaki seems like the type of man who would not appreciate people snooping around those he cares about and he is definitely not someone Liyue wants to make an enemy of.' Yelan noted as she knew Ningguang herself would not this sort of information for a possible ally like Naruto Uzumaki.

"Collei is right now at Aaru Village Naruto. I did not expect you to come back in person so I did not summon Collei back her for this meeting." Nahida stated calmly as she sat down on a throne that appeared to have summoned from the ground itself.

Nilou watched Naruto's reaction carefully as if she was worried Naruto was about to do something rash. Naruto hummed closing his eyes for a minute.

"Summon her. I would like to speak with her before I leave." Naruto stated in a commanding tone as Cyno and Nilou resisted the urge to salute to the more or less unofficial second in command of Sumeru city.

Nahida raised her hand up stopping Nilou from running off.

"Is what I want to say but if Collei is in Aaru Village that means she is safe and happy right now. My own selfish desire to see her off should not be placed higher than her attempt to make new friends." Naruto continued making Nahida nod in approval.

Both Cyno and Nilou gave sighs of relief especially Nilou was about to run off to grab Collei herself despite how long it would take her run there and back.

"Just tell Collei…" Naruto stated seriously before his expression turned into a rather cartoony friendly expression with a wide grin.

"If she needs anything at all just send any sort of message and I will bring it back personally. It could rain or shine and I will find a way to bring it to her. Celestia herself could be sending a storm my way and I would still break through it to be back here pronto!" Naruto promised with a fist bump.

Nilou, Cyno and Nahida all shared the same flat expression while the people of Liyue were shell shocked at how silly the mighty protector was acting in regards to his sister.

"Glad to know you are still Collei knight in shining armour. I will make sure to pass your message onto her next time I see her." Nahida promised with a notably dry look.

Naruto smiled and shook his head.

"Nah. I am your knight and Collei older brother. That is how I keep it simple in my head." Naruto corrected as Nahida looked away with a pleased expression while Nilou pouted cutely.

Naruto laughed before he grew serious as he looked at Nahida and then incomplete portal.

"Lumine! Paimon! Can you hear me?" Naruto shouted as Lumine and Paimon blinked.

Ningguang raised a hand as the crowd dispersed around the travellers who walked close to the portal.

"Yes, we can hear you loud and clear Naruto!" Paimon stated with Lumine nodding.

"I thought it over. Now that I know Sumeru is stable and good hands, I would like to explore other lands." Naruto admitted after a moment of silence.

"So, you will travel with them then?" Nahida asked with a hand pointed at Lumine and Paimon. Her smile showed she was happy with the response.

Naruto smiled and nodded.

"With your permission and theirs I would like to formally like to join Lumine and Paimon on their adventures. At least for a little while." Naruto asked formally with a bow of his head.

"Permission granted my dear Naruto. Sumeru will still be here whenever you need to come home or want to return for a break." Nahida stated proudly.

Naruto turned to Lumine and Paimon who smiled at him.

"We already discussed this and we would love for you to join our little party!" Lumine stated while Paimon nodded her head quickly.

Naruto nodded and was about to head back to Liyue before he stopped when he felt a soft hand grab his own.

"Nilou? What's wrong? I won't be gone forever you know. You know I will miss and everything right?" Naruto asked softly as he smiled at the pretty dancer who looked rather shy and nervous.

"I know Lord Naruto… It's just that…" Nilou started before she started to blush furiously.

"?" Naruto gave her a questioning look as he squeezed her hand in reassurance.

Nilou gained a burst of courage as she pulled on his wrist allowing her to pull his face down to her level. Before Naruto or anyone could react Nilou planted a sweet and warm kiss on Naruto's whiskered cheek. The kiss on the cheek lasted a few seconds before Nilpu pulled away with flaming red cheeks but a happy smile on her face.

"Consider that an incentive to come back regularly Lord Naruto! Also a thank you for everything you have done for Sumeru and me!" Nilou declared as she ran off with a content smile on her face.

Naruto eyes widened before a soft smile appeared on his face as he gently touched the spot where ilp soft lips were.

"Huh. I never thought Nilou would actually kiss me even on the cheek especially in public. She really is pure and sweet with her emotions. She is quite the young woman and anyone would be blessed to be her boyfriend." Naruto mused but his sparkling eyes showed how pleased he was.

Cyno had a smirk as he expected this to happen while Nahida sighed and crossed her arms.

'Sheesh Nilou got one up on me huh. I guess there is always next time. It would be petty to kiss him now after Nilou just gave him a kiss on the cheek.' Nahida mused with a pout.

Lumine and Paimon jaws dropped as they pointed towards where Nilou left. Keqing rolled her eyes while Ganyu looked at the ground nervously. Ningguang just raised an eyebrow at the display. Hutao and Zhongli shared a grin and small smile respectively. Yanfei tilted her head while Yun Jin just smiled pleasantly. Shenhe eyes narrowed as she clenched her hands unknowingly while Cloud Retainer just smiled at the display from her disciple.

AN2: Might be a bit of an exaggeration but this is just Ganyu opinion in my story. Who keep in mind has been around the block quite awhile so she isn't exactly new to Visions.

AN3: Taking abit of liberties on Keqing powers but imagine her sending out her Electro power in the form of a range attack.

AN4: Non-canon (canon in this story context) but this is just my head canon mostly as Inazuma Archon Quest spent a lot of time mentioning how much Visions were linked to Ambitions of mortals.

AN5: Before people come claiming that Nilou doesn't really have a sword and its just a gameplay mechanic (so she can be a playable character and not an NPC) in this story despite being mostly just being a dancer she off screen learned how to use a sword 'just in case' (highly implied to impress Naruto who she loves dearly and crushed on him for awhile).

AN6: So yes at least privately Nahida has admitted she is in love with Naruto. He is what she has been looking for and keep in mind he rescued several years before Lumine/Aether did in canon. She has been free for sometime now.

AN7: Also if you have played through the Sumeru Archon quest you will understand that the timeline shift means that the friendship Morax had with Buer has transferred over to Nahida (her successor) or rather in their altered memories they were always dear friends albeit split between regions.

AN8: Before people ask. Yes Naruto does 'receive' the message/portal on his side but it stays open and viewable unless him or Nahida close it. Just because Naruto dashed to Sumeru and left the portal doesn't mean it closed on its own. Think the portals from Doctor Strange 1. To Steven's annoyance unless he manually closes the portal they stay open and could be exploited after being opened.

AN9: I know in canon that title is used by both people who mostly ignore Nahida and her minority followers like Nilou but here that title was used to mock Nahida constantly by Akademiya as she was no longer 'complete' in their eyes. Nahida didn't come out and tell her name till she got released by Naruto so even people who liked the idea of the Sumeru God used the title of 'Lesser Lord Kusanali' as they didn't know anything better. However as shown in previous chapters after Naruto released Nahida he gets rather offended at people calling her by that title.