God of Shinobi

by Arashi no Yami

The Goddess of Salt Havria was betrayed by her own people, fleeing deeper into her domain, she was backed into a corner; broken-hearted she could only watch in despair. But when all hopes were lost, he appeared and saved her life. Indebted to him, she returns his kindness by helping him to know more about the world. A journey that led to an ending of one's forgotten hometown.

9. To you - Fifty million years from now on

God of Shinobi

---

The ocean was vast; it hid many things, from the forgotten eras to the present time. No one knew anything about the past except for him. When time was restored and the world restarted, he had long existed in this barren world, unbound by time and death.

Teyvat was once nothing but a wasteland.

The planet life was slowly revitalized, but once again, it became a tundra with death scattered everywhere.

The Sovereign existed during the age of dawn, far longer than the age of Gods. They worshiped no one but him; he is the exalted, the one unbound by time and space, the creator of life and death, the timekeeper, and the One True God.

When Phanes descended, the first Descender waged war upon the Seven Sovereigns, and she then challenged the Progenitor of Teyvat. However, he never accepted that challenge. He was an observer, one who refused to partake in the war. The Sovereigns begged for salvation, and yet, he never became their savior.

When the war occurred, most of the Sovereigns perished; some went into hiding, while the Dragon King sought vengeance within the depths of the Abyss. Phanes then brought law and order. She used her power to revitalize the planet, terraforming the land to her desire. Her power was endless, like a river stream, unyielding and unshackled by time.

When she created the four shades and built the Celestia, that was the first time he made his appearance known to the Heavens. For the first time in her life, Phanes felt fear.

"You who have brought chaos upon this world, dare to shackle the Heavens and Earth under your name!?"

She, the creator of light, the God who gave birth to life, and the victor of the Old War, found herself lost for words. Her eyes gazed down upon him with fury, and she engaged him in battle. She who had bested the Seven Sovereigns found herself being trampled by him without dignity. He was cold and merciless.

The battle lasted for six days, and on the seventh, she was defeated. He emerged unscathed, while she lay on her deathbed. The Four Shades witnessed Phanes's first defeat.

Ever since then, Phanes altered her mindset.

This time, she tried to gain his trust. She created life to impress him, starting with the creation of flora and fauna. Then, with the help of one of her Shades, they created man, offering each of her creations to him as a gift, trying to satisfy and impress him. However, he responded by creating the three Moons that illuminated the dark sky of Teyvat: Aria, Sonnet, and Canon, eventually known as the three sisters.

He created the Seelie, beings that transcended even mortal life, with beauty second to none. Thus, he wasn't impressed by their attempts; in fact, he mocked them for their creations by creating the perfect race.

From that day on, the Primordial One gave up her pursuit of impressing him.

Her fear of him made the first descender weary and cautious, taking each step carefully. However, her actions weren't mirrored by the Four Shades.

They, in fact, were the opposite of her.

Istaroth tried to get to know him, and under his gaze, she received the authority of 'time.' Asmoday dared to challenge him to a battle and lost, but her power made him acknowledge her, and she was given the authority of 'Order.' Nyssa, the Shade of Life, was curious about his power of creation and was taught by him the yin and yang technique, earning herself authority over life. Mira, the weaver of destiny, was given the authority to guide souls to the afterlife and oversee the fate of all creatures.

He helped Phanes establish the Heavens, and Phanes became merely one who sat on the throne; the King of Kings… although such a title didn't exactly suit her.

She did offer him the seat of heavens, but he declined the offer.

For one who has the power to terraform the Universe, he seemed rather… lost.

But she didn't complain.

With her power, she created the angels, bestowing upon them the basic tasks of overseeing Celestia and watching over humanity from above.

Ever since then, Celestia became a paradise for the Gods, where all races on the planet coexisted, worshiping the Gods by offering prayers.

The sun and moons moved according to her order, giving the world the cycle of day and night.

As time went by, so did the lives of Teyvat.

The planet, once ravaged by war, destruction, and death, had been completely terraformed.

The Primordial One slumped on her throne, her eyes fixed on the image of him, and a frown appeared on her beautiful face.

How could someone this powerful exist?

The Primordial One tried to unravel his past, only to be led to a dead end.

He was cold to many of them…

Only opened his heart to specific of Gods, and the Moon Sisters.

However, it seems he was the closest with Istaroth.

The Goddess of Time was the only one who managed to penetrate that barrier he put around himself.

Phanes sighed and closed her eyes, letting her thoughts drift off to the distant past.

He was an enigma to them all; no one knew anything about his origin, and it seemed he refused to divulge his past to others.

He hid many things, including the origin of what existed before Teyvat.

The being that existed beyond his time merely ignored the questions about his forgotten era. He was an anomaly. His origin sparked curiosity among everyone in the Heavens, and yet no one dared to venture deeper into his past, nor did they try to get closer to him.

Only she did.

"A food for your thoughts?" Istaroth approached him and sat beside him.

They sat at the edge of the Heavens, where the boundary between the divine and the mortal blurred into an endless horizon. The vast sky above was mirrored perfectly by the sea below, its surface shimmering like polished glass. The vibrant blue of the sky was alive with warmth and light, a living canvas that seemed to pulse with every breath of the universe. It was a sight that inspired awe, a beauty so profound that it felt as if the very heavens were singing in quiet harmony.

But beneath the sea's tranquil surface, a different world lurked.

The darkness in the depths was impenetrable, a void that swallowed light and hope alike. It was a stark contrast to the radiant sky above—a reminder that beauty often concealed the most terrifying secrets. The abyss, with its silent, insidious presence, seemed to reach upwards, as if yearning to break free from its prison beneath the waves.

Istaroth's heart ached at the sight, torn between the breathtaking beauty of the heavens and the ominous darkness below. The sea's calm surface was a lie, masking the turmoil beneath, just as his placid demeanor masked the storms that surely raged within him. She could feel the tension in the air, the unspoken truths that hung between them like a fragile thread.

The contrast was not lost on her.

The abyss was always there, lurking, waiting—just as the unresolved questions between them waited for the right moment to surface.

However, the Gods' presence kept them at bay.

Istaroth knew that time could never keep it away.

She knew that he knew—the abyss was slowly rising from the depths of hell.

So why… did he remain silent?

Why did he refuse to take action?

She, of course, refused to persuade him or force him to take over such matters.

Instead, she would constantly stand by his side, wishing to explore his past.

He was the strongest among them; no one in Celestia dared to challenge him.

Asmoday was the second to learn that the hard way. If she thought about it, the Heavenly Principle sure was a moron. Istaroth couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle at the fact that she had just mocked one of her sisters.

The man-God beside her heard her laughter, and a sigh escaped his lips as he answered the question she had asked. "Just reminiscing about the past."

His messy blonde hair waved gently in the air. His face was calm and cold, void of emotion.

Even when life was bestowed upon Teyvat, he never found it necessary for him to take action. Until he felt the surge of change, as if something tried to altered his existence; that's why he appeared before them.

"Did the scenery below remind you of your past?"

Istaroth wasn't quite certain about the direction of the topic, but she wouldn't shy away from such a challenge. Back then, he told her Celestia was boring, cold, and devoid of life, and entertainment.

And yet…now, he always found himself back here, overseeing the world below from above, teaching the Gods on the Palace about knowledge beyond their time.

He was also the one who bestowed upon them their authorities.

Was… he perhaps the God of this once-dying planet…?

Istaroth had pondered about it, and she had discussed this with her sisters — the origin of his existence.

However, their theories in the end led to nothing but speculations.

Their authorities were his; he could take them whenever he wanted.

But with the heavens succumbing to his will, he had no reason to do that. He had entrusted them, just as he had entrusted the Seven Sovereigns to rule over the world.

Now, he would sit here, seemingly watching something… or perhaps waiting for someone? But who could that be exactly?

Her question was ignored as he shot back a question that bewildered her.

"Tell me, Istaroth,

would you dare challenge a being that is far stronger than I?"

The question he asked came out the most unexpected.

What should she say in this situation?

She wasn't as powerful as her sisters… The Heavenly Principle would accept that challenge without a second thought… And the Primordial One, Phane herself, would probably retort that there is no one more powerful than him… not even within the next fifty million years.

"I… I don't know."

His flat expression turned into one of amusement, and a chuckle echoed throughout all of Celestia. It confused her, but she was surprised to see that such an emotion did exist within him, somewhere.

"If that day ever happens, I want you to flee. Leave Teyvat, and never return."

Was that a warning?

Did he fear something they had no knowledge of?

The only being that could pose such a danger would be from the depths of the Abyss… but they lacked the intelligence to overthrow the laws of the Heavens. Even the remaining Sovereigns dared not challenge them a second time.

"And leave humanity to fend for themselves?" The Goddess shot back, her face turning to rage. Her love for humanity knew no bounds, and he knew that. Yet to him, the expression on her face reminded him of a child trying to challenge someone far beyond her own height.

Istaroth calmed down as she pondered over it for a moment. Lifting her hand, she opened her palm, and light shone radiantly under their gaze. An ethereal hourglass materialized, the grains of sand hanging in between as a small stream slowly poured down to the opposite end.

"If that day ever comes, then… I will use time to keep that danger at bay. I promise you, time will always be on your side, and I will protect everyone."

The God closed his eyes, satisfied with her answer.

He had his reasons for not helping the Seven Sovereigns.

He had his reasons for not participating in the Old War.

He had his reasons for coming here, once the war had ended.

He had his reasons for bestowing such authority upon Phanes and the four shades.

"For someone more sensible than your sister, you can be such an idiot sometimes. Phane was right about you."

Istaroth looked at him with curiosity.

"What did Phane say?"

"That you were an idiot."

Istaroth's eyes widened as the hourglass in her hand exploded in a brilliant gold light.

"You know I'm telling the truth!"

He chuckled for the second time that day. "Is that so? I was the one who bestowed such authority upon you… so, don't overdo it."

Istaroth smiled, reaching out to take his hand, gently pulling him to her side. His head rested on her shoulder as they sat beside each other, their eyes gazing at the distant sky. In that moment, their world seemed to stop, and she spoke softly.

"Then, let's make a promise to each other," she suggested. Her long silver hair waved gently in the wind, her gaze unblemished, and with that pristine smile on her face, she spoke softly.

He saw her lips move, each word spoken gently, filled with love and adoration, hoping for a future that would never come, a darkness she was willing to keep at bay for his sake. Her words rang in his head like a symphony that would continue for eternity.

However, he heard nothing but silence as her smile adorned her beautiful face.

---

Chapter 9:

To you - Fifty million years from now on

---

The civil war had ended, and the wounds had healed. Yet, despite the efforts to rally together and recover from the war, discord still simmered among the people. The three clan heads were acutely aware that, to move forward as a united nation, they needed to unify the people once again.

As the sun slowly rose, casting crimson streaks across the vast sky, the head of the Gunnhildr clan stood alone in the early morning light. Clad in the training garments of a seasoned knight, her form was both powerful and graceful. Her tunic, made of sturdy fabric, clung to her frame, darkened with patches of sweat from her rigorous exercise. Beneath it, the faint glint of chainmail could be seen, a reminder of her readiness for battle. Her leather gauntlets, worn and scarred from countless sparring sessions, rested heavily on her hips as she paused to catch her breath.

Taking a moment to recuperate, she tilted her head back, her blonde hair damp and clinging to her brow, as she gazed up at the heavens above.

The sky was a canvas of vibrant colors—crimson streaks intertwined with the soft glow of dawn, creating a breathtaking sight that never failed to stir something deep within her.

The cool morning breeze brushed against her skin, a welcome relief from the heat of her exertion. Her training attire, though practical and well-suited for combat, still allowed her to feel the elements, grounding her in the present moment. She could feel the weight of her sword strapped to her side, its hilt worn smooth by her grip, a familiar companion that had seen her through countless battles.

As she ventured deeper into the forest, she felt the lingering presence of elemental energy in the air. Her curiosity piqued; she followed the trail of energy until she stumbled upon a scene that once again captivated her.

Havria stood by a tree trunk, her breathing ragged as she rested her palms on her knees. Her body was covered in bruises and burn marks. Despite her exhaustion, she wore her training attire and took her fighting stance once more.

"O-one more time…!" the Goddess of Salt rasped, glancing at the shinobi who stood on a tree branch. His eyes briefly met hers before shifting to Lady Gunnhildr, a smirk playing on his lips.

Perhaps this could be the key to settling the discord and unifying the people of Mondstadt.

The shinobi jumped down, landing softly across from Havria.

The latter grinned and returned to her fighting stance, her hair gently waving in the air, with strands of silver illuminating in the light. She took a deep breath as elemental energy gathered around her feet, then she rushed towards him, her fist sailing towards Naruto's face. He blocked it with ease, creating a shockwave that caused the surrounding trees to bristle harshly.

'Such strength,' he thought, noting how much she had grown in just a few days since their encounter with Lupus Boreas.

But Havria didn't stop there. She unleashed a barrage of ice spears, their sharp tips flying toward Naruto, only to be blocked by the barrier that shrouded him. She clenched her lips, took a deep breath, and exhaled a stream of flame particles. As the flames met her ice element, the entire area was enveloped in a thick fog.

The shinobi whistled, impressed, but before he could jump away, his feet were snared by ice as the ground beneath them turned into a field of white. Naruto narrowed his gaze as silence permeated the area. Without warning, an arrow made of ice shot toward his head, but he dodged it with ease. Havria then emerged from the fog, swinging an ice blade toward him. Pouring chakra into his feet, Naruto melted the ice and parried her blade.

"Cold," he thought as he felt the blade emit a freezing energy before it solidified into needles that attempted to penetrate his barrier.

"This won't do," he commented, looking at her with a hint of amusement.

"I know!" she smirked in response.

Before he could comment further, a streak of red flew from the corner of his eye, hitting his barrier from behind. As it made contact, a ripple spread across the barrier, holding it off with ease—until the attack exploded. A mushroom cloud engulfed the area, toppling trees and obliterating everything in its path as the ground beneath him buckled under the force. The explosion sent a shockwave rippling across the landscape.

Lady Gunnhildr was caught off guard by the explosion, feeling the wind and shockwave rushing towards her and the shelters.

"Oh no...!" she thought, torn between her options. Without a second thought, Lady Gunnhildr gathered her elemental power, commanding the wind to move according to her will. Just as she was about to create a barrier, the shockwave struck an invisible outer layer barrier, causing the flames to dissipate within seconds.

The Gunnhildr clan head sighed in relief. Had that barrier not been in place, she knew she wouldn't have had enough power to contain such a massive attack.

Back to the two gods, the area was now covered in dirt and debris, with the once-solid ground reduced to a deep crater. Standing within it, he stared at Havria, who was perched on higher ground.

"A clone!" he muttered, impressed by how far she had progressed.

His gaze hardened as he noticed the entire area was covered in salt.

The salt had hardened into spikes, striking him at point-blank range.

Though his barrier held, it was struggling against the onslaught. Realizing the true nature of the attack, he smirked and cleared the area with his chakra.

"Each particle was turned into a weapon... To think you could shrink it beyond mortal sight." He chuckled, pointing at his eyes. "Unfortunately for you, I can see everything."

Havria gritted her teeth, drenched in sweat as she looked across the field. Her clone nodded before leaping down to engage him in close combat.

The shinobi dodged each attack with ease. Her fists, encased in elemental energy, were not enough to land a hit, let alone shattered his barrier.

"Eyes on me!" she shouted; her entire body now fused with elemental energy. Her hair shimmered with power as she summoned her strength, bringing down a mountain of hardened salt towards him.

The clone kept him occupied as he stood watching the attack descend. When it struck the ground, an earthquake could be felt for miles. The earth beneath their feet fractured, and the sound of birds fleeing filled the distance.

"This... this is insane," Lady Gunnhildr muttered to herself.

"Meh, you'd see worse if you were their enemy," Andrius suddenly appeared, startling Lady Gunnhildr. "Ah, don't worry about everyone in the shelter—no one will hear the aftermath of their training. I've commanded the wind to silence it."

"Not the earthquake though. They must have felt that," Decarabian pointed out, glancing at the shelter behind him. "But since there's no commotion, Barbatos must be doing a great job keeping his people occupied."

Decarabian sighed, having been watching the training for some time. Initially, he hadn't been impressed with Havria's power. Andrius had said she was powerful, and he could feel that, but her elemental energy seemed weak compared to his. Now, after witnessing her in action, he was left speechless.

Despite her low elemental energy reserves, she seemed to have perfect control over it.

The God of Storm should really stop underestimating others—for his own good.

Besides, she was also his master… What kind of servant disrespects his master?

That idiot must be him!

What an idiot...

Back to the fight, the entire area was covered in salt, with her elemental energy dancing around them. The shinobi stood on the ground, smirking; none of her attacks had fazed him.

"Is that all?" The Shinobi taunted, cleaning the dust on his robe.

She was drained—he could see and sense that.

Thus, Naruto hovered in the air, meeting her gaze. "That was a great training. We should stop now."

"I-I'm not done yet!" Havria rasped, her power waning as she stood across from him, panting. Her legs gave out, and she fell to the ground.

Naruto sighed and offered his hand to help her up.

The Goddess of Salt, however, smirked as she firmly grasped his hand.

"Caught you," she exclaimed. To get past his barrier, she needed to catch him off guard. As much as she hated it, the only way to do that was by exploiting his kindness.

The shinobi was taken aback as her entire body suddenly exploded into tendrils of hardened salt, blood spilling onto the ground as the attack struck all his fatal organs. Havria, ready for her next attack, was startled by what she saw unfold before her eyes.

"Eh?" Her eyes widened in worry, and her next attack halted midair.

"No, I caught you." Naruto thrust his feet and roundhouse kicked her hard enough to send her sailing across the area. The trees toppled upon her impact, causing a small earthquake, and the entire area was obscured by dust and dirt.

"Just because I spilled blood doesn't mean it would kill me," The Shinobi reprimanded her with a smirk, staring at the plume of dust.

When it finally dispersed, there she stood, frowning.

"So, you did that to catch me off guard..." Havria muttered to herself. Fighting had always been her second choice—if certain problems could be solved with words, she preferred the peaceful approach. But throughout this entire training, he had taught her another lesson: never drop your guard, especially against your opponent.

'I did that when we fought Andrius...' the Goddess of Salt thought, suddenly realizing her mistake. She took her fighting stance again but noticed the presence of the head of the Gunnhildr clan, with both Andrius and Decarabian standing beside her.

"Welp, time to go," Andrius chimed in with a smirk, enjoying the display of power between his Masters before darting back to the shelter alongside the grumbling Lord of Storms.

Lady Gunnhildr sweat-dropped at their antics, though she sighed before walking toward Naruto and Havria.

"Forgive me... Lord Naruto and Lady Havria..."

"No need," the shinobi snorted.

How many times did he need to repeat himself?

He was no god.

But this time, he decided to let it go since, apparently, the Gunnhildr clan head was stubborn—much more stubborn than the Lawrence clan head.

What was his name again?

Gepard...?

No... Was it Gerhard?

The shinobi frowned, trying to recall the name of the leader of the Lawrence clan but eventually gave up and decided to call him that.

'Ah, why would I waste my time thinking of that freak?' The shinobi thought, feeling a chill run down his spine. As much as he acknowledged the strength and leadership of Gerhard Lawrence, the latter seemed to see him in a different light—perhaps even worship him.

"Ahem, what are you doing here, Lady Charlotte?" Havria asked with a smile, approaching the Gunnhildr clan head with the shinobi standing behind her.

Charlotte Gunnhildr could still feel the heat of embarrassment on her cheeks as she cast her gaze away.

"N-no... just call me Charlotte, please, Your Majesty."

"...?"

Havria sweat-dropped, but she nodded in understanding.

Charlotte Gunnhildr continued, "I was just doing a light exercise and noticed traces of elemental energy… so I decided to see what was going on."

"About that…" Havria smiled apologetically. "We were just training… since I'm still lacking in many aspects."

Charlotte nodded, though she was surprised to hear such a statement from Lady Havria. For a god to feel like they lack something… it made Charlotte wonder how mortals could dare feel so perfect in each other's presence.

"You seem troubled by something," Naruto interjected, sensing Charlotte's inner turmoil. He knew exactly why she felt lost—her concerns were tied to their plans for creating a new Mondstadt.

Charlotte nodded, realizing there was no point in hiding her concerns any longer. She had planned to consult Lord Barbatos, but with him being so celebrated among the people of Mondstadt, she didn't dare disturb him. However, meeting Naruto and Havria here seemed fated, as if she was meant to seek their guidance instead.

"Three days have passed since we held that meeting, but despite the agreement, some people are still refusing to unite… They still wish to reignite the flames of war… If this continues, the chance of uniting Mondstadt as a whole might be impossible."

"Ah, those people…" Naruto sweat-dropped, having sensed their lingering hatred as he roamed the shelter. He hadn't commented on it, preferring to observe how the three clan heads would handle the situation. It seemed Charlotte was the first to take action, while the Lawrence and Ragnvindr clans remained passive—or perhaps they were acting behind the scenes, even under Barbatos' watchful eye.

After all, eradicating those who sow discord might seem like the simplest and fastest solution. However, doing so would only create more problems in the future, potentially sparking another civil war.

Havria glanced at Naruto, who nodded in understanding. "Shall we venture deeper into the forest?"

"Okay," she agreed.

As they walked, Naruto offered some suggestions to Charlotte.

The head of the Gunnhildr clan was deep in thought, absorbing every word.

The simplest and fastest solution, as Naruto pointed out, was to prove the three clan heads could lead Mondstadt anew.

Since these dissenters wanted war, she should give it to them.

Charlotte nodded, bowing her head to show respect and gratitude. "Before I leave, Lord Naruto."

"Hmm?"

"I heard from Lord Decarabian that you have been searching for Lady Istaroth."

"That we have," Naruto confirmed.

"Do you have any leads, Charlotte?" Havria asked, equally curious. They had been advised by Andrius to give up on meeting Istaroth, while Decarabian admitted he had no clue about her whereabouts. Barbatos had seemed strangely evasive, as if he knew something but couldn't quite recall it.

'Was someone tampering with their memories…?' Havria wondered, glancing at Celestia above the heavens.

"I believe Lady Istaroth will grace you both with a meeting soon," Charlotte replied with a confident smile.

Naruto tilted his head, confused by her response, while Havria sweat-dropped. "Is that so?"

"Trust me," Charlotte nodded. "Once again, thank you for the guidance, Lord Naruto."

The two watched as she rushed back to the shelters, leaving Naruto and Havria alone.

"The sun is still rising; do you want to continue sparring?" Naruto asked.

Havria nodded with determination.

"Let's go!"

---

A few hours later, both Naruto and Havria returned to the shelters.

They were, however, surprised by the change of scenery. Surrounding the camps were banners of the three clan heads, and in the middle—where the medical wards once stood—was now a sparring circle.

At the far end were thrones for the Gods to oversee – in this case, it was wooden chairs prepared by the people of Mondstadt. Barbatos was hovering on his seat, the expression of excitement was etched on his little face and beside him was none other than Decarabian himself.

he God of Storm watched the sparring with curiosity.

This event was proposed by Charlotte Gunnhildr today, and without a moment to spare, they began arranging this sparring ground for the people of Mondstadt, hoping it would unify the country once and for all.

Alongside this sparring event was the resume of the Windblume Festival.

Whilst the sparring goes on, Decarabian would often steal glances by averted his gaze to look at Amos, who was sharpening the weapons displayed on the tables. Her most prized weapon was also offered as a gift to the victor.

Anyone who wished to spar the clan heads could fight in the ring.

It's a matter of life and death; those who has the courage and win over them can demand anything from the Gods.

As a result, they drew a crowd—one that had been expected, given that many of the Mondstadtian harbored malice toward each other. The city was still divided into two factions: one that worshipped the Lord of the Storm, and the other that worshipped the Lord of the Wind.

A minority worshipped both Naruto and Havria.

A country filled with many beliefs... It was honestly something he never thought would happen.

Decarabian then noticed Naruto standing among the crowd, watching attentively as the sparring took place with Havria beside him; the latter wasn't looking good, she looks like she could collapse any time soon.

Decarabian however wasn't concern, since Havria has him by her side.

Charlotte Gunnhildr stood proudly after her victory, raising her blade to the sky. "Come, people of Mondstadt! Unleash your rage in this ring! Show us your capabilities in this battle! Let us feast upon the Ode of the Windblume Festival! For the future of Mondstadt!"

Her declaration brought cheers and applause from everyone.

The crowd buzzed with excitement, and the children imitated the adults as they had their own share of fun with wooden swords.

Unbeknownst to Charlotte, the foe she had defeated fair and square was enraged. His fury was evident as he charged at her, his spear aimed at the Gunnhildr clan head's chest, screaming loudly as he rushed forward in frustration and anger.

Charlotte sighed and performed a low kick to the ground, causing the man to fall while his spear sailed through the air.

"Oh no…!" Charlotte realized too late as she watched the spear flying toward Amos. The latter couldn't hear due to the commotion, as she was busy sharpening weapons, and the crowd's buzz drowned out any other sounds.

"Watch out." Decarabian appeared in a breeze of wind, effortlessly grabbing the spear and protecting Amos from danger.

Amos, caught off guard, saw that the danger had been averted, but the sight of his burly hands over hers made her heart race.

"P-please let go of me." She was angry, but it came out pathetic.

She understood that it was a war, but her fear of him still persisted. She couldn't let go of her trauma, nor was she willing to forgive him.

Decarabian quickly let go and returned the spear to her.

"Sorry…"

His voice was shallow; for a God who was once arrogant and narcissistic, he sounded so pathetic.

Amos didn't spare him a glance nor offer another response. She simply grabbed the weapon, put it away, and walked off.

"W-wait!" Decarabian called out, chasing after her.

Andrius, watching the drama unfold, snorted and went back to sleep, ignoring Barbatos' cheers and laughter of excitement as the latter attempted to start another conversation with him, but was ignored for the second time today.

Barbatos pouted at that.

Though the festival was just the beginning, as everyone found themselves immersed in it, enjoying the day as if it were their last, the discord among them was slowly being mended, and the plan initiated by the three clan heads could finally start its phase.

The wheel of fate turned in a different direction. There was only one who could fix the fate of Teyvat once and for all. And she could sense that.

In the distance, her ethereal golden form watched everything unfold, sensing the wind shift in a different direction. A leaf was carried into the air, moving alongside the breeze, drifting to a distant place before gently hovering in front of her. It floated down to the ground, but she caught it in her hand, noticing a hole in it. She gazed through the hole, her eyes focusing on the current Mondstadt—so different from the Mondstadt she once knew. Her gaze narrowed at his light; even among the people, he shone the brightest, untouched by time and unbound by space.

A beautiful smile appeared on her face.

"It's time."

Her melodic voice was carried by the wind. Observing the festival from afar, she had a beautiful smile on her face. Her gaze lingered a bit longer on him as she closed her eyes and let fate unfold itself.

This time... we can win.

---

Decarabian chased after her as Amos found herself halted by his pursuit.

"Wait…" The God of Storm spoke, conflicted within himself and distressed by the fact that she was trying to avoid him. His hand reached out, holding her palm tightly, refusing to let her go. "I know what I've done…I know that you hate me…but, just this one time…please hear me out."

Her silver hair swayed gently in the breeze as her eyes wandered over the surroundings.

The festival continued in full swing, with long tables laden with a vibrant array of food and drinks. Grilled meats sizzled over open flames, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas, while fresh bread, fruits, and pastries were passed around on platters. Large barrels of ale and wine were tapped, the golden and ruby liquids flowing freely into the mugs of revelers. The sound of wooden mug mingled with hearty laughter, creating a lively symphony that echoed throughout the streets. Bards played upbeat tunes on their lyres, their melodies encouraging spontaneous dances among the crowd. The joyous cheers and rhythmic clapping of the people accompanied the music, as children darted between the adults, playing games and chasing each other with carefree abandon. Lanterns adorned with flowers and ribbons swayed gently in the breeze, casting a warm, flickering glow over the celebration, as the festival carried on well into the night.

It was a loving sight, one she wished she could enjoy to her heart content.

But instead… she felt only fear.

"Please let me go," The blacksmith woman begged.

Her voice was dimmed by the noise around them, but she knew he could hear her—he was a god, after all.

Yet, he still refused to release her arm.

"Amos! Please! Just this once!"

"No! You know that I despise you! Let me GO!" Her calm tone erupted into anger as she shouted in rage, her eyes blazing with fury as she glared at him.

The God of Storm was forced to let her go.

He feared she would run away, but if she did… what was he supposed to do? He couldn't change the past; he had hurt her…perhaps even killed a part of her. He knew that what he did could never be forgiven.

But a part of him, deep inside, wished… wished she would listen to him just one last time.

"Just this once…" His voice cracked, filled with sadness and regret as he looked into her eyes. "Please…listen to my request."

Amos was kind.

She was the most beautiful woman in Mondstadt.

He loved her…even now, he still did.

"Please, Amos."

Silence stretched between them as she refused to answer him. His request hung in the air as she appeared conflicted. Her face was full of rage, but he could see it was also mixed with confusion, sadness, fear…and hope.

She was confused by the change in his heart, saddened that she couldn't face him as she once did, fearful that he would kill her as he nearly did before during the civil war…and hopeful that their relationship could still be salvaged.

It was because of these feelings that she was torn, uncertain of what answer to give him.

"There's nothing left…for us," The silverette spoke in a dead tone, her eyes averting as she turned her back on him. "But…just this one time…I'm willing to listen to your request."

Decarabian was relieved and nodded.

"Thank you…."

"So, make it worth it, God of Storm," Amos reprimanded him.

"Walk with me…then after that, I promise I won't bother you ever again."

Amos closed her eyes, and when she reopened them, she followed in his footsteps, listening to his voice as they walked through the streets within the shelters. The people smiled at them, offering food and alcohol, though she could see the happiness in their eyes was mixed with resentment once they saw the tyrant God walking beside her.

A child accidentally stumbled into them, crashing into Decarabian.

In the past, he would have pushed the child away with a torrent of wind, hurting them in the process, but this time…he helped the child back to their feet, gently lecturing them to be more careful and to take better care of themselves.

He had changed.

She knew that.

He had changed ever since he met the Goddess Havria.

Decarabian was once so full of himself, but now…he was learning to become a better version of himself. He had become exactly the type of being she once wished him to be.

But now, it was too late.

Her heart…had been hurt by him.

By the end of their 'date,' they stopped at a secluded spot where few people could be seen passing by. His gaze was fixed on her, and she could see the regret in his eyes, the pain and sorrow... mixed with the desperate hope that she might forgive him.

"Did you know, Amos?" The God of Storm began, his voice wavering as he pointed at the sky above them. "Back then, I was naïve and foolish… I told myself it was my duty to protect the mortals from the Heavens. The war that's raging now—I didn't want anyone from my nation to be a part of it. I wanted to protect everyone because I loved Mondstadt. The mortal life had grown on me… but that also corrupted my way of thinking."

She listened intently, understanding the weight of his words, whether they spoke of the past or the present.

"I became a tyrant without even realizing it," he continued, his voice heavy with guilt . "I let my judgment cloud everything, and I grew arrogant. I thought I could have everything I wanted. All my plans were moving in the direction I desired, and because of that, I restricted everything in hope the nation can survive the Archon War. All I wanted was for the people to follow me… but by concealing the truth, it all came back to haunt me. I now lost my place; the throne was overtaken… and my love for you turned into anguish and anger."

Amos narrowed her gaze, and he smiled sadly, a bittersweet expression that only deepened the sorrow in his eyes.

"I discarded you like you were nothing, like a mere toy," he admitted, his voice breaking. "Back then, I thought you were beautiful— such thought still exists even now. But that admiration turned into obsession. I restricted you, ordered you around, not realizing I was hurting you. And then I blamed you for betraying me… I was going to kill you, to ease the pain of that betrayal, without realizing I was the one who drove you to it."

Decarabian looked up at the vast blue sky, his expression distant, yet filled with longing.

"You're free now, Amos," he said softly. "Soar to the heavens, live your life the way you intended from the very beginning… after all, I am the source of your pain. I want to ask for your forgiveness, but I know I don't deserve it. I'm an evil god, a tyrant—I have no place in that kind heart of yours."

He gave her one last glance, his eyes filled with love, adoration, and profound regret.

I'm sorry… for everything I've done to you.

I was blind, cruel, and selfish. But please… know this—

I will always love you.

If I could revert time, if I could undo all the pain I caused,

I would cherish you with every breath I take, until the end of my days.

I would hold you close, treasure you as you deserved to be treasured.

I would love you with a devotion that would transcend eternity.

Even now, even after everything,

I love you beyond the confines of time and space, beyond reason, beyond redemption.

I will always love you, Amos, with a heart that will forever ache for what we lost.

Till the end of my time… and beyond.

Amos' lips trembled, her tears threatening to spill.

But she found herself frozen, unable to speak as her mind raced to process everything he had just said. His confession, his true feelings… everything was real, she knew that.

But…

It was too late.

"It's too late… Decarabian," Amos whispered, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"If fate were to give us another chance…

I would still not forgive you.

I refuse to ever forgive you.

I hate you with every fiber of my being, from the very depths of my soul!

Even if I were to be reincarnated for the next fifty million years,

my heart would never change.

I would still feel the same

I don't love you anymore…

I refuse to love you ever again

I hate you more than words can ever express.

Farewell, Decarabian."

And with that, she turned and fled from his side, her tears flowing freely, refusing to look back, continue to run as far as her feet could take.

For the first time in his life, the God once known as the Tyrant wept. He could feel the hot tears streamed down his face as he watched her leave, his heart shattered, knowing that he had lost her forever.

This is her curse.

And he gladly accepted them.

After all, he is nothing but a sinner.

---

" Wood Release: Nativity of a Sea of Trees."

The earth trembled under the impact of his palm, causing the ground to crack and split open. From the fissures, roots began to sprout with an almost sentient determination. Trees erupted from the soil, their branches stretching skyward as if reaching for the heavens. Verdant foliage unfurled, spreading across the ravaged terrain that Havria had earlier laid waste. The landscape transformed into a lush, vibrant forest, a stark contrast to the barren wasteland it had been moments before.

The shinobi walked with purpose to the edge of the cliff, his gaze fixed on the enormous crater left by their fierce training. The sun was beginning its descent, casting long shadows over the scarred landscape. His warm blue chakra surged forth, a shimmering aura that seemed to ripple through the air. As the energy spread, droplets of water began to coalesce, forming a gathering pool at the cliff's edge.

"Water Release: Great Waterfall Technique!"

In an instant, a stunning cascade materialized out of thin air, defying the natural order. The water plunged from the cliff's edge in a breathtaking drop, cascading down with an almost magical grace. The sheer force of the fall carved a deep, roaring torrent that tumbled over jagged rocks, sending up a curtain of mist that sparkled like diamonds in the sunlight. The mist formed ethereal rainbows, arching gracefully across the scene, each color shifting and shimmering as if alive.

The roar of the waterfall echoed through the valley, a powerful, continuous sound that harmonized with the newly revived nature around it. The air was filled with a fresh, invigorating scent of pine and earth, mingling with the cool, damp mist that clung to the skin. The surrounding trees swayed gently in the breeze, their leaves rustling softly, as if whispering their approval of the miraculous transformation.

Above, the sky was painted with hues of orange and pink as the sun dipped lower, casting a golden glow over the rejuvenated landscape. The light danced upon the waterfall, illuminating the cascading water with an almost celestial brilliance. The once desolate terrain was now a vibrant tapestry of life and color, a testament to the shinobi's extraordinary abilities and the power of nature's renewal.

"Woahh," Barbatos exclaimed in amazement, mesmerized by the feat his fellow god had performed. He realized that the blonde-haired god didn't even seem exhausted, and he was impressed by the ability to wield multiple elements at once. "That was amazing, Naruto!" the God of Wind cheered, flying towards the shinobi and showering him with praise, which made Havria sweat drop.

"It's nothing really, just fixing someone's mistake like I always do," Naruto chuckled, glancing at Havria, who smiled back.

"Well, thank you for that, Naruto!" The Goddess of Salt said with a smile, walking closer to him. He frowned, thinking a smile wasn't quite enough.

"I don't think a smile is enough," the blonde retorted, disappointing at the way she treated him; chakra isn't cheap you know!

"Maybe you could treat me to some food—"

Without warning, she tiptoed and planted a kiss on his cheek. Her action startled him and even Barbatos, who found himself blushing at the bold move.

Havria retreated, her hands behind her back.

"Thank you, Naruto!" she repeated her words of gratitude, her cheeks reddening with embarrassment but feeling glad that she had dared to do it.

"That… is fine too," the shinobi muttered, still dumbfounded by what had just happened. Meanwhile, Barbatos was giggling mischievously above them.

"Naruto! Naruto! Listen to a poem I just made!"

"Stop! Don't say anything funny!"

"Ehe!"

The shinobi sighed while Havria giggled.

The three of them glanced at one another before looking up at the sky. The sun was setting, and night was slowly enveloping the world of Teyvat. The sounds of the ongoing festival still echoed from the shelters, though the sparring event had ended, and a feast was being prepared.

"This sure is nice…" Barbatos remarked, his voice filled with happiness and joy as he glanced at the blonde-haired god before resting his gaze on Havria . "Whoever becomes the Archon… we should hold gatherings like this once in a while, enjoying feasts with the people. What do you guys think?"

"Hmm, that doesn't sound like a bad idea," Naruto agreed.

"I love it! We can gather every few hundred years and catch up, reminiscing about the past!" Havria added enthusiastically, looking forward to the idea, as it reminded her of her time in Guili Assembly when Morax would invite other adepti and gods for feasts, discussing plans for the ongoing Archon War before forming the now known nation as Liyue Harbor.

Havria then realized she actually missed Guizhong and the other adepti from Liyue.

She glanced at Naruto, and he looked back at her.

"What's wrong?"

Had she not met him back then, her demise would have been certain. However, it seemed fate had another plan for her. For someone who had escaped death, she wouldn't mind spending the rest of her life alongside him.

Wherever he went, she would be right by his side… since he would do the same for her.

"Shall we head back?" Havria suggested with a smile, feeling the cold breeze embrace her skin.

The shinobi nodded as Barbatos rested on his shoulder. The three of them then made their way back to the shelter.

One step, two steps… three steps.

All of a sudden, both Havria and Barbatos vanished.

"!"

The shinobi was alarmed, before he looked down on his feet, this time he saw a light circling around him, before engulfing his entire form and he too disappeared from Mondstadt.

It was sudden and surprising.

The idea that someone could teleport him away without warning meant either there was someone more powerful than him, or he had been under the radar of the Celestia from the very beginning and now they finally made their move.

"What's going on…?" Barbatos quirked his head in confusion, looking around to see he wasn't alone. Next to him were both Naruto and Havria, their faces etched with surprise.

Barbatos glanced around and noticed that they were surrounded by prison cells, each one empty.

"Where are we?" Havria frowned, feeling a gaze boring into her as she looked around in confusion. The 'prison' was vast, built in a medieval style with towering pillars that reached high into the heavens. In the center of the area was a long table with seven chairs.

"I was certain I did not summon you," a thundering voice boomed from a distance. They were greeted by a female figure whose presence was unlike anything they had ever witnessed, instilling a paralyzing fear in both Barbatos and Havria. Her appearance waws that of a young woman with a tall, slender body. She had long, free-flowing cloud-white hair that floated unnaturally on her back. Her golden-amber eyes had starlike pupil as she gazes at the three of them.

"Who are you?" Naruto asked, unaffected by her killing intent, the being narrowed her gaze at him.

"I am the Sustainer of Heavenly Principles."

Havria took a deep breath, calming herself as she went on guard, the killing intent filling the room was now more directed at Naruto.

"Though I must admit, your battle against the King of Wolves was impressive," the figure said with a heavy sigh.

She took a step forward and then moved her hand, a black cube appearing on the palm of her hand, before she sends it flying toward the shinobi.

Naruto was alarmed by the speed of the attack, but the barrier he had enacted around himself bent under her power. The cubes then multiplied, moving like a contamination that covered his entire body, trapping him inside. She then motioned her hand, and the space around them was sliced as she slaughtered the shinobi with ease.

It was so fast that both Havria and Barbatos were unable to react.

"But I despise anomaly like you." She grunted in relief.

"N… Naruto?" Havria's voice cracked, her emotions spiraling from surprise to confusion, and then to anger. Her elemental energy encased the entire room, dropping the temperature rapidly. Without hesitation, she lunged at the unknown goddess.

"Hmph." The Heavenly Principle huffed, dodging each of Havria's attacks with ease. She raised her hand and grabbed the Goddess of Salt. "How pathetic," she said, gripping Havria's hand tightly before bringing her down to the ground creating a small crater.

Then, Havria's body exploded, sending shards of ice flying towards the goddess. The unknown figure was caught off guard, as each of the shards penetrated her porcelain skin, drawing out blood as she hissed in anger. Her vision however was obscured by the flying debris forcing her to thump a cube around her, clearing the debris from obscuring her sight.

Ice then formed around her, encasing her feet and trapping her in place.

"Is that all?" The Heavenly Principles muttered, unimpressed, shattering the ice around her with ease.

Her eyes widened as she dodged an incoming arrow just in time. The arrow struck the ground behind her, exploding on contact and filling the room with steam. "Stop this nonsense!" The Goddess growled, clearing the fog with her power once more.

Her eyes narrowed when she felt a sharp pain on her neck, her jugular vein was cut and behind her stood Havria, holding a blade materialized from her power, with blood trickling down from the blade, and tainting the Heavenly Principle robe. However, the cut wasn't deep enough and at that moment, the Heavenly Principle exploded in rage.

Barbatos was still caught by the Heavenly Principle killing intent, unable to regain his bearings as he could only watch.

How could this be!?

He had fought Decarabian without fear, but now…

Now he could do nothing but merely watch!?

'M-move!' The God of Wind shouted in his head, furious at his own helplessness.

Havria and the Heavenly Principle clashed with the force of titans, their every movement a blur of deadly grace. The chamber itself seemed to tremble beneath the intensity of their battle. Havria, the Goddess of Salt, wielded her power with raw fury, conjuring jagged spears of crystalline salt that shot through the air like a tempest. Flames roared to life around her, twisting and spiraling as they sought to consume the Heavenly Principle.

But the Heavenly Principle was unyielding, her calm demeanor contrasting the chaos she unleashed. With a mere flick of her wrist, the very fabric of space distorted around Havria. The flames bent and twisted away from their target, swallowed by a void of nothingness. Ice shattered as it collided with an invisible barrier, the shards falling harmlessly to the ground.

Havria's eyes widened in shock as she found herself unable to close the distance.

Before she could react, the Heavenly Principle's hand thrust forward, and the space around Havria compressed with an unnatural force. The air itself seemed to crush down on her, pinning her in place as she gasped for breath.

With a flicker of her gaze, the Heavenly Principle sent Havria hurtling across the room. The Goddess of Salt crashed through a towering pillar, the stone crumbling like sand beneath the impact. She slammed into the wall with a resounding crack, the force of the blow leaving a massive dent in the thick stone, dust and debris raining down around her.

Despite the pain coursing through her body, Havria gritted her teeth, her eyes blazing with defiance. She pushed herself to her feet, but her moment of resolve was violently interrupted. A crimson cube, pulsating with a dark energy, rushed toward her, slamming into her stomach with bone-crushing force. The impact sent her hurtling back into the wall behind her. The sheer strength of the cube caused the wall to buckle, then shatter, as Havria was sent soaring into the open sky, the heavens now bearing witness to their epic clash.

As the Goddess of Salt began to fall, the wind howling around her, she cast her gaze toward the heavens. "HOW LONG ARE YOU GOING TO STAY IN FEAR, BARBATOS?" Havria roared, her voice defiant even as gravity pulled her down.

High above, the wind spirit, Barbatos, was still in paralyzed, fear rooting him to the spot. But at her call, he mustered his courage. Though his hand trembled in fright, the wind obeyed his command. It gathered around him, swirling into a powerful gale before he directed it toward Havria.

The Goddess of Salt was plummeting toward Teyvat when the wind caught her, enfolding her like a protective cocoon. With a surge of power, she ascended once more, rising above the clouds. Hovering there, her gaze locked onto the Sustainer of Heavenly Principles. The latter remained unfazed, her cold eyes narrowing as she motioned with her hand.

The crimson cubes responded to her will, hurtling toward Havria at the speed of light.

Havria braced herself, her body still aching from the previous blows, but her spirit unyielding.

The Goddess of Salt raised her hand, and her elemental energy erupted into a brilliant mix of silver and crimson. The air around her vibrated with power as her attack flared to life. A massive arrow of searing crimson flame materialized before her, its size dwarfing even Celestia. Within the flames, her crystallized salt sharpened into deadly points, harder and more lethal than any godly weapon.

The wind, still under Barbatos's command, fueled the flames, causing them to grow even more intense. The heat became unbearable, even for the Sustainer, who narrowed her gaze as the flames neared. The two forces collided in a blinding flash of light, their power consuming each other in a cataclysmic explosion. The shockwave was so immense that it split the clouds apart, the force of the blast shaking the very heavens.

Barbatos, still reeling from the impact, felt the shockwave as the explosion engulfed the Chamber of Celestia, swallowing the three Gods. As the dust and debris began to settle, Havria was sent crashing back into the Celestial Chamber, her body battered and broken. The Sustainer hovered above her, her once-pristine form now marred by bruises, burn marks, and torn fabric.

Havria lay motionless on the shattered floor, her vision blurring as she could feel her blood trickled down from her head. Her attire was a mess, filled with holes and burn marks, some of the fabrics were even soaked by her dried blood.

"Hmph, this should calm you down," the Goddess said with a satisfied smirk. It was a battle she hadn't expected to enjoy, but the exhilaration was undeniable. Her decision was clear to both of them. She then raised her hand, and a queen piece materialized above her palm.

The two could feel the extraordinary power radiated from it.

"This is the Gnosis; I shall bestow it upon the victor of the Archon War on Mondstadt."

Havria heard the voice but paid it no mind.

The Goddess closed her eyes.

"I refuse…"

"?"

The Unknown Goddess frowned.

"You dare ignore my decree?" The Heavenly Principles growled in rage, even after her defeat the Goddess of Salt still refused to listen to her. Havria could feel the Heavenly Principles elemental energy bursting to life, yet she didn't feel fear…instead, she feels…happy?

She was happy she could share most of her moments with Naruto…he was her savior and she failed to avenge him.

In the end, she was still a failure.

Havria chuckled, a sad smile on her lips.

"What's the point?" she muttered, her voice shaking with rage and sadness. "I made it this far because of him… I don't deserve the title of an Archon... even if I do, I refuse to bow down to the likes of you!"

Barbatos's eyes widened in shame and realization.

The wind spirit motioned his little hand, and the wind surged into a gale, creating a protective wall around Havria and separating her from the Sustainer.

The Heavenly Principle glared at Barbatos, acknowledging his courage as she calmed down. Her gaze settled on the God of Wind, who tensed as she moved toward him. She offered the Gnosis to him, but Barbatos narrowed his gaze.

"Congratulations on winning the Archon War, Barbatos. I shall now bestow you the title of the Anemo Archon."

Barbatos hovered still, refusing to answer her and the Sustainer frowned.

"Accept it."

"…"

The Heavenly Principle growled in rage at his refusal.

"What is it with these Gods of Mondstadt? One dares to raise her power against me while the other refuses to accept the Gnosis!"

Her rage turned to bewilderment when a hand took the Gnosis from her.

"So, this is the Gnosis," he said, narrowing his gaze at it. "Hmm? What's this? I feel something familiar within it."

The Heavenly Principles eyes widened in surprise, while Havria laid on the ground in shock, then that feeling turned into relief as she let her tears freely fall down her eyes.

"You! How are you still alive!?"

The shinobi hummed in thought before smirking.

"Unlike you, I am strong!"

The Sustainer growled as her power began to materialize.

In a flash, Naruto leaped toward her, grabbing her neck and slamming her down to the ground.

The cobblestones shattered upon impact.

The Heavenly Sustainer was in disbelief.

Such power!

She couldn't even break free.

"Now then, tell me what's going on, Istaroth."

"?"

Istaroth made her presence known as her body materialized.

The Goddess of time is a tall woman with silver hair, she stood with an ethereal presence, draped in a flowing white robe that seemed to shimmer with a soft, otherworldly light. The fabric was as delicate as spun silk, cascading gracefully down her form, catching the faintest glimmers of light. She wears a long white veil with thorns and flowers accenting the sides.

The Goddess of Time approached the shinobi with each step filled with grace and elegance.

"It's been a while, Naruto Uzumaki!"

Huh?

Naruto was perplexed by the fact that she knew his true identity.

He was but a man who existed beyond his time, sealed within that cave with certain memories lost and forgotten. And yet, here stood the one being who might help him unravel those missing pieces.

Istaroth noticed the confusion in his eyes.

A laugh of amusement escaped her lips as she took hold of his hand, bringing it closer to her face. She then rested her cheek on his hand, feeling the warmth radiating from him. Her heart quickened, a beautiful smile continuing to be etched on her face.

"This is the second time I've seen you with that expression on your face," Istaroth remarked with a giggle, pulling him to her side while the Heavenly Principle regained her composure and stood back on her feet, her eyes shifting between Istaroth and Naruto.

"What's the meaning of this, Istaroth?"

Istaroth glanced at her sister, who was conflicted by the fact that Istaroth dared to go against her judgment after refusing so many of her calls.

"Phanes has given each of us freedom. This is the path I'm willing to take, Asmoday. Be a good sister and don't intervene."

"Are you…really Istaroth?"

Barbatos narrowed his gaze at the interaction between the two Celestial Goddesses, realizing there seemed to be a conflict brewing between them.

Istaroth had always been known as a kind Goddess—merciful, soft, and generous. Her kindness knew no bounds.

But here she was, the opposite of the sister she once knew.

Asmoday was startled, left speechless, unable to respond or react to the sudden declaration. Istaroth feels different, she feels rather out of place, and Asmoday noticed that her sister elemental power is diminishing with each seconds passed.

Istaroth's gaze hardened at Asmoday, waiting for her answer as the latter clenched her lips and submitted to her sister's wills.

"Fine… do as you please."

Istaroth smiled, grateful for her sister's understanding.

The Goddess of Time then glanced at Barbatos.

"It has been a while, hasn't it, Venti?"

"?"

Barbatos was at a loss for words.

Venti?

That's the name of his friend; the bard.

Not his.

"Though it seems in this timeline, his life was saved, and Mondstadt didn't suffer a huge loss," Istaroth chirped cheerfully, glad the thread of fate was turning in a different direction. For once, she was willing to gamble everything for this timeline.

"This timeline…?" Havria noted, struggling to get back on her feet. "What do you mean by that?"

Her question was soon answered as she found Istaroth standing right in front of her. Using her power, time reversed, restoring Havria to the state before she battled the Heavenly Principle. "Forgive my sister, Havria. It seems saving you was the missing piece for us to achieve our goal," Istaroth pointed out, extending her hand and helping the Goddess of Salt to stand. "You heard it right… In this timeline, you lived, and that changes a lot of things. So come with me, Havria. There's a lot I want to tell you, though…I do realize I'm running out of time…so, let's keep this meeting short."

Questions filled their minds, so much knowledge beyond their time being revealed. Even Asmoday was lost for words.

"Istaroth…what's going on? Is there something you're hiding from me?"

Istaroth glanced at her sister, a sad smile on her face as she apologized.

"Sorry, Asmoday. This will be the last time you see me."

Before Asmoday could ask the meaning behind that statement, the three of them disappeared, leaving both Barbatos and Asmoday alone.

"C-can I go now…?" Barbatos stuttered nervously, glancing at the Heavenly Principle. The latter stared at him before looking down at her hand. Asmoday frowned; the Gnosis was still with that blonde-haired God.

But her decree remained.

"You can go as long as you accept the position."

Barbatos frowned, but when he saw her glare, he quickly nodded.

"Fine, I accept."

What choice does he have?

As if on cue to his answer, a surge of power gathered around him. Then Asmoday kicked him out of Celestia, sending him flying back to Mondstadt.

---

Istaroth led them to a place beyond the Celestial boundaries, to the very edge of the Heavens. The path they walked was paved with glistening stones, each one shimmering faintly with an inner light as if they held the essence of the stars themselves. Towering pillars lined the path, their surfaces engraved with intricate celestial patterns that seemed to pulse with ancient power. The pillars reached impossibly high, vanishing into the ethereal mist above, extending beyond the reach of even Havria's divine gaze.

The air was cool and serene, carrying with it a gentle, soothing breeze that caused their hair to sway softly in the air. The wind was not of the mortal world; it carried the scent of unknown flowers, of distant stars, and of the lingering presence of gods long forgotten. It whispered secrets as it passed, brushing against her skin like a tender caress.

Beside her, Naruto walked in silence, his expression contemplative as he absorbed the majestic of their surroundings. His usual exuberance was subdued in this sacred place, replaced by a deep, thoughtful stillness. Every step they took seemed to echo in the vastness around them, the sound lost almost immediately to the infinite expanse.

As they neared the end of the path, the scenery opened up to a breathtaking view.

The horizon was a blend of colors that defied description, where the sky met the heavens in a seamless dance of light and shadow. The stars above were bright and numerous, glittering like diamonds scattered across a velvet canvas. Below, the land stretched out in an endless panorama, each region distinct and vivid, from lush forests to towering mountains, from serene lakes to golden deserts. The landscape seemed to shift subtly, as if time flowed differently here, and Havria could see the sun and moon chasing each other in an eternal dance across the sky.

The feeling of being on the edge of the world, at the very border of existence, was palpable.

It was a place where the divine and the mortal realms brushed against one another, a threshold between what was known and what lay beyond. And here, at this mystical boundary, the air seemed to hum with the potential for something momentous, something that would change the course of fate itself.

"This is the border of the Heavens. What do you remember from this place?" the Goddess asked, glancing at the shinobi.

Naruto was visibly dumbfounded, unable to answer her question immediately.

"I'm sorry…but I don't remember anything."

Havria tensed when she saw the frown on Istaroth's face.

The latter hummed a gentle tune, filling the air with its beauty. She then put her hands behind her back and began to walk around them, circling the two before stopping in front of Havria.

Havria could feel sweat trickling down her cheek as she met Istaroth's breathtaking gaze. The Goddess of Time seemed to stare into the depths of her soul, her lips spreading into a smile that was both beautiful and enigmatic.

"Havria—Aria [the noble – Lioness of God] …" Istaroth trailed off.

"…?"

"I've decided—I will call you that from now on."

"That's fine with me…"

Havria sweat dropped, finding Istaroth's antics unexpectedly endearing.

For some reason, Istaroth reminded her of Naruto. It was unexpected but, at the same time, she found it cute.

"Shall we sit down?"

Naruto nodded, while Havria was gently led by Istaroth. The two then sat at the edge of the Heavens, with Naruto following suit.

Havria gazed upon the breathtaking scenery of the land below, her divine eyes taking in the vast expanse of Teyvat. The sky above her seemed infinite, a boundless canvas of deep blues and soft purples, where the distant stars twinkled like scattered diamonds. The land below was alive, each region presenting a unique and vibrant landscape that spoke of the world's diversity and beauty.

To the northeast, the rolling hills and dense forests of Mondstadt stretched out before her, a verdant paradise where the wind danced freely through the trees. The region was dotted with towering mountains, their peaks shrouded in mist, and rivers that meandered through the valleys like silver threads. On the Farther south, she could see the jagged, snow-capped peak of Vindagnyr loomed on the horizon, standing as a silent guardian over the land, its icy slopes glistening under the sun's gentle rays.

Turning her gaze to the southeast, Havria saw the majestic mountains of Liyue rising from the earth like ancient giants. The region was a tapestry of towering peaks and deep, winding gorges, where rivers cascaded down in shimmering waterfalls, carving their paths through the stone. The landscape was a blend of rugged terrain and serene beauty, where the high cliffs were home to bustling ports and the sacred plains were dotted with the remnants of forgotten civilizations.

Farther east, across the sea, lay the archipelago of Inazuma, a nation of many islands, each one unique in its character and charm. The islands were scattered like emeralds across the ocean, connected by harbors and surrounded by stormy seas. Thunderstorms brewed perpetually above the land; their dark clouds illuminated by the flickering light of distant lightning. The towering peaks of Narukami Island were crowned with ancient shrines, while the coastal plains were dotted with picturesque villages and fields of vibrant Sakura trees in full bloom.

In the southwest, Sumeru unfolded before her in a striking contrast of environments. The eastern part of the region was dominated by dense, lush rainforests, where towering trees formed a verdant canopy that shielded the ground below from the sun. Vines and vibrant flora intertwined with ancient ruins, their presence a reminder of the region's deep connection to nature and knowledge. On the western side of Sumeru, the landscape shifted dramatically into the arid, golden sands of the desert. The desert was vast and unforgiving, its dunes stretching out endlessly, with ancient temples and civilization thriving; she presumed that was the location where Rukkhadevata nation thriving.

In the northwest, she could see Fontaine presented a unique vision of beauty, its landscape dominated by a series of islands scattered across the azure waters. The main island was interconnected by grand bridges and aqueducts, their architecture reflecting the elegance and refinement of Egeria's domain. The cities were built with a blend of classical and avant-garde designs, where rivers and waterfalls ran through the heart of urban centers, filling the air with the soothing sound of flowing water.

To the south, Natlan's fiery landscape was a testament to the raw, untamed spirit of its people. The land was a rugged expanse of volcanic plains and jagged peaks, where the earth itself seemed to pulse with the heat of molten lava just beneath the surface. This was a land of warriors and indigenous tribes, where the inhabitants lived in harmony with the land, drawing strength from the very fire that shaped their world. The skies above Natlan were often filled with the glow of volcanic eruptions, casting an otherworldly light over the wild terrain.

Finally, to the far north, Havria's gaze settled on Snezhnaya, a land locked in the grip of a never-ending winter. The region was a frozen wilderness, where snow blanketed the ground in a thick, unyielding layer and icy winds howled through the desolate plains. Towering glaciers and icebergs floated in the frigid waters, while ancient fortresses stood tall, their stone walls encrusted with frost. The sky above Snezhnaya was a somber gray, with the sun a distant, pale disk that offered little warmth to the frozen landscape. Despite the harshness of the climate, there was a stark beauty to the land, a reminder of the resilience and strength of its people who thrived in this icy realm.

As Havria took in the full panorama of Teyvat, she marveled at the diversity and majesty of the world before her. Each region was a masterpiece of creation, a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, and together they formed the intricate tapestry of the world of Teyvat.

Then, she heard Istaroth speak. Her voice was sweet and caring, filled with love and admiration. Havria realized these sentiments were directed toward Naruto Uzumaki—a name that had been buried by time, the name of a hero from a forgotten era, a living god who continued to exist beyond his time.

He was a god, yet one who refused to be acknowledged as such.

"What do you think of Teyvat, Naruto?" Istaroth asked.

The shinobi hummed in thought, glancing at Istaroth before setting his gaze across the sky.

His eyes then settled on Havria.

Throughout their journey, though it hadn't been that long, he realized that Havria's presence had made the trip even better. Unfolding his past, uncovering the truth of his origin… He had helped the god who had once been so helpless to stand on her own feet, growing stronger with each passing day.

She was kind—her kindness knew no bounds.

Even though she had been betrayed by her own people, Havria still forgave them. Naruto knew it would have been different had he not saved her. But her plea to live, her desperate cry to the world to save her from her demise, had awakened him.

Then, he ventured alongside her, unraveling his past, moving toward an unknown destination to find his answers. Teyvat might be a cruel place for a god as kind and merciful as Havria. However, beauty still existed in this accursed world of Teyvat.

"There's still a lot of room for improvement, but I believe…Teyvat is a beautiful place."

His words resonated in Istaroth's heart, her eyes glistening with sadness as she gave him a bittersweet smile.

He had changed.

He wasn't the cold God she used to know.

His heart now yearned for love, and all those feelings were directed toward Havria.

Whether he realized it or now.

She still remembered the line he once said to her.

"I don't find Teyvat worth the time. It's boring, it's pathetic. There's nothing worthy of this forsaken home of you - Gods."

"I'm jealous, you know!" The Goddess of time suddenly declared, her gaze fixed on Havria, who tilted her head in confusion.

"But!"

The Goddess of Time stood back on her feet, her eyes gazing into the distance as she gave the two a bright smile.

"I'm glad you finally treasure your life, Naruto!"

Naruto looked at her, bewildered, and found himself slowly rising from his sitting position. His hand extended towards Istaroth as his feet carried himself closer to her.

Istaroth's body began to distort, and his hand passed through her ethereal form.

She gave him a sad smile.

"For a Goddess of Time… I'm actually running out of time."

"Huh?" Havria murmured, her brow furrowing as she hurried after Naruto, who had stopped in his tracks. He, too, was bewildered as Istaroth began to step back, her ethereal form shimmering, gradually fading from view.

Istaroth then glanced at Havria. "Take care of him, Aria… Will you promise me this? Don't ever give in to despair. From this moment onwards you shape your own fate. Don't hesitate to save anyone. Use your power for the greater good and you two…never trust the Sovereigns; at least not within this timeline"

Havria lowered her gaze, her heart heavy, and nodded slowly.

"I… promise."

Would that day ever come?

The thought seemed distant, almost unimaginable.

She couldn't conceive of a future where she would surrender to despair.

But…

Deep down, she knew that nothing was impossible.

Istaroth smiled softly, her eyes filled with a mixture of sorrow and hope. She knew the fate that awaited them in this timeline; she had seen the paths they might take.

Yet, despite the darkness that loomed ahead, she believed in them—believed that, in the end, they would remain true to themselves, even if the darkness consumed them, even if they were lost beyond salvation.

"Did you know?" Istaroth's voice trembled, her once calm and timeless demeanor cracking under the weight of her emotions. "They say time waits for no one," she continued, her voice breaking as tears, shimmering like liquid stardust, cascaded down her face. "But that's not true…you know? I've waited. I've waited for you, Naruto… for countless millennia, I've endured the endless flow of time, waiting for this one moment… the moment I could finally reach out to you."

Each word pierced Naruto's heart like a blade.

Desperation clawed at him as he tried to hold onto her vanishing figure, his chakra flaring in a desperate attempt to keep her close. Blue flames turned to gold, illuminating the air with a warmth that seemed to reach out for her.

Istaroth realized what it was.

It was his attempts of saving her life.

"Even a small fraction of you still has this much power." Istaroth feels relief and happy, her effort this time won't come to a waste; that's why she's willing to gamble everything with this meeting for the sake of winning the long gruesome battle with the One Hails as the Forgotten Deity. "I love you, Naruto," she whispered, her voice now a fragile, fading echo. "I've loved you for eons, across the infinite march of time… and I will continue to love you, even if it takes fifty million more years. I love you so much that it hurts, so much that it breaks me… but that's why… you must wake up. Teyvat needs you. The world is crying out for you, begging for your strength, your guidance. Don't let her defeat you, Naruto. Reclaim your power. Save them, save as many as you can. And when you're ready… when you've regained what's rightfully yours, come find me. Come to the edge of Teyvat, where the eternal flower blooms, where time stands still… and I'll be waiting for you, my beloved."

Her final words hung in the air, a haunting melody of love and sorrow, as her form dissolved into the ether, leaving Naruto standing in the dimming light, his heart aching with a pain that transcended time.

Naruto stood there, speechless, unaware of the tears streaming down his face.

What's going on…?

A fraction of him?

What exactly does that mean?

To reclaim his power…but it feels like he never lost anything…nor was he ever in a deep slumber.

His thoughts were a mess, millions of questions running through his head, as he remained unaware of Havria walking towards him. She took his hand firmly before pulling him into an embrace.

The two stayed like that for a while, oblivious to Asmoday's presence.

In the distance, the Heavenly Principles watched the scene unfold. Her eyes closed before she turned away. She had made her promise; she would respect Istaroth's wish not to intervene. But the least she could do was inform her of what was happening.

This isn't like Istaroth.

She isn't one to keep others in the dark.

The edge of Teyvat…

She knows where that is.

The place where time stands still, where the Primordial One – Phanes – slaughtered the Second Who Came.

"This is frustrating," she thought in annoyance.

Then, with a wave of her hand, the space beneath Naruto's and Havria's feet bent, as a spatial rift engulfed their bodies.

The portal sent both Naruto and Havria back to Teyvat.

---

Elsewhere, at the Southern East of Teyvat, a storm raged above Inazuma, the sky a swirling vortex of malevolent energy as the Goddess of Inazuma struggled to contain it. The heavens themselves had darkened into a black, yawning abyss, with heavy clouds roiling like the ocean in a tempest. Sheets of rain lashed down in torrents, their icy touch hammering the earth below. The wind howled like a banshee, tearing through the city of Inazuma with the force of a thousand blades, while the gale spiraled into colossal typhoons that churned the sea into a frothy, violent rage.

Golden lightning crackled and seared across the sky, jagged bolts splitting the darkness with their blinding brilliance. Each flash illuminated the chaos below, casting eerie, flickering shadows across the city. The thunder that followed was deafening, a relentless barrage of sound that rolled over the land like the roar of a vengeful god. The people of Inazuma cowered in fear, their hearts gripped by terror as the very air seemed to thrum with impending doom.

As the overseer of Inazuma, Raiden Makoto had taken swift action to protect her people from the storm's wrath. Yet, as she stood within the Tenshukaku, her mind was not at ease. Her gaze was heavy with the weight of responsibility as the shoji doors slid open, Saiguu and Ei entering, with a shoulder-length pink hair young Kitsune trailing closely behind them.

Her twin sister – Raiden Ei was a tall woman, with pale skin, and long- dark violet hair, her purple eyes gazing at Makoto. She was wearing a lilac kimono with long, draping sleeves that are adorned with the Mitsudomoe emblem of Inazuma, a red and gold ribbon tied at her back, and a singular pauldron on her left shoulder.

The silver-haired Kitsune bowed deeply to her Goddess, acknowledging her with the reverence due to a deity.

Ei mirrored the gesture, and the young Kitsune, though trembling, followed suit.

Saiguu stepped forward to deliver her report.

"We have evacuated the people, Your Excellency," Saiguu informed her.

Despite the relief that should have come with the news, a frown marred the Kitsune's face.

Makoto could sense it too—the malevolent presence that loomed above, growing ever closer, threatening to unleash even greater destruction.

"Saiguu, I'm afraid," whimpered the young Kitsune, her wide, violet eyes brimming with fear. She clung tightly to Saigu's priestess skirt, her small frame trembling with every thunderclap that shook the air.

"Come here, Miko," Makoto beckoned gently.

Miko hesitated only for a moment before rushing into Makoto's arms.

The Goddess of Inazuma offered the young Kitsune a comforting smile, her hand gently patting the girl's head. But even as she comforted Miko, Makoto's thoughts were consumed by the storm outside—a storm not just of nature, but of something far more sinister.

Saiguu sighed, knowing the difficulty of the situation.

She had tried to prevent Miko from accompanying them, understanding the gravity of what lay ahead. Yet the young Kitsune, in her ignorance and brashness, had insisted, throwing a tantrum that had forced Raiden Ei to intervene.

Now, here they were within the Tenshukaku, facing a crisis of unprecedented scale.

"What of Chiyo?" Makoto inquired, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her heart.

"She's currently at the Shelter, guarding the place as we speak of, and our Tengu general – Sasayuri is preparing our troops to fight alongside, your Excellency" Saiguu replied.

The Tengu General was crucial to Inazuma's defense, yet Makoto knew this battle would not be won by sheer force alone.

Her brow furrowed as she considered the implications.

"Tell him to stop. This is not a matter the mortals can handle," Makoto commanded, her voice tinged with the weight of inevitability.

Ei closed her eyes briefly, then spoke with calm resolve.

"Let me handle it, sister."

Purple lightning flickered and danced in the room as Ei's polearm materialized in her hand, the energy crackling ominously in the air.

"Is there truly no other way?" Makoto mused aloud; her frustration palpable as she wrestled with the thought of the impending battle.

Saigu understood the Goddess's reluctance.

Makoto had always been benevolent and kind, but now was not the time for hesitation.

The storm outside was a testament to the power they were up against. Makoto felt a gentle tug on her lilac robe, drawing her gaze down to Miko's anxious face.

"Don't worry, Miko. Ei will take care of this," she reassured the young Kitsune.

Ei smiled softly at Miko before stepping out of the Tenshukaku, her form soon swallowed by the storm's fury. Raiden Ei moved with purpose through the streets of Inazuma, her presence seemingly untouched by the torrential rain. Each step she took was deliberate, her movements so swift that the raindrops appeared to slow in her wake, hovering in the air before splashing to the ground.

Purple lightning crackled overhead, intertwining with the golden bolts that tore through the sky, their combined fury lighting up the city like a battlefield. The streets were deserted, the people huddled in shelters, their prayers for safety nearly drowned out by the relentless pounding of the rain. Yet through this tempest, Ei's form flickered like a specter, moving with precision as she made her way to the military base.

"Sasayuri," she called out as she arrived, her voice cutting through the howling wind.

The Tengu general has an average height, standing at around 5'6". He has a lean, athletic build. His hair is long, flowing, and raven-black, reaching down to his mid-back. It has a slight wave, giving it a soft, wind-tousled look. The hair is often tied back into a high ponytail, with a few strands left free to frame his face.

Sasayuri's eyes are sharp and almond-shaped, with a deep, penetrating gaze. His eye color is a vibrant shade of emerald green, with flecks of gold that glint in the light. Sasayuri wears a traditional samurai outfit with modern twists. His attire consists of a deep blue and silver kimono with intricate patterns that resemble flowing water or the swaying of grass in the wind. The kimono is tied at the waist with a wide, dark sash that has a subtle pattern of cranes in flight. Over the kimono, he wears a sleeveless, dark grey haori with white trims and an insignia on the back. His shoulders are adorned with lightweight armor plates in silver and blue, engraved with floral motifs. carries a katana at his side, sheathed in an ornate scabbard with intricate gold detailing. A small charm hangs from the hilt, a delicate piece featuring a stylized crane in mid-flight.

The Tengu General turned, startled, before quickly bowing his head in respect.

"Your Excellency."

"Cease the mobilization and move the troops to shelter. This is beyond mortal hands," Ei relayed Makoto's message to the general, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Sasayuri, his feathers ruffled by the storm, nodded in understanding.

"Leave now! I shall handle this." Ei exclaimed, turning her back on him.

"Yes, Milady!" The General bowed deeply before retreating to the base.

Raiden Ei stood alone for a moment; her gaze locked on the sky.

The storm above Inazuma had grown fiercer, the winds now shrieking like banshees, the rain falling so heavily that it blurred the world into a smudged painting of dark and light. The thunder was near constant, each rumble shaking the ground beneath her feet. And through this cacophony, Ei felt it—a dread that gnawed at her resolve, a presence that loomed just beyond the veil of clouds.

Her eyes narrowed as she watched a massive form begin to descend from the heavens. The creature was colossal, its golden slitted eyes glaring down at the city, its purple scales shimmering with an unnatural, otherworldly glow. It seemed to suck the light out of the air around it, leaving only the harsh flashes of lightning to illuminate its monstrous silhouette. But in a blink, the colossal form vanished, replaced by a woman with long purple hair and two dragon horns on her forehead standing beside her.

The tall woman exuded an ethereal presence, her fair skin glowing with an otherworldly radiance, flawless and smooth as porcelain. Her long, wavy hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of soft purple silk. Each strand seemed to catch the light, giving her an almost halo-like aura.

Her eyes were a mesmerizing pastel blue, with snake-like pupils; they were piercing, as if they could see through the very soul of anyone who dared to meet her gaze. Her delicate features were perfectly balanced, with high cheekbones, a slender nose, and full lips that curved into a knowing, enigmatic smile.

She was dressed in a light gold kimono, the fabric shimmering softly with every movement, like sunlight dancing on water. The kimono was adorned with intricate patterns of swirling clouds and ethereal landscapes, but the most striking feature was the large dragon symbol emblazoned on its back. The dragon was depicted in exquisite detail, its serpentine body coiling with power and grace, its scales glinting as if alive.

The sleeves of her kimono were long and flowing, trailing behind her as she moved, giving her an almost ghostly appearance. Around her waist was a wide obi, tied in an elaborate knot at the back, further emphasizing her elegant form. She wore delicate sandals, the straps embroidered with tiny golden threads, and her toenails were painted a soft, iridescent pink.

"I am here to talk, Raiden Ei," the being spoke in her feminine tone, her voice cutting through the storm with an unnerving calm.

Ei's eyes widened in shock.

How did this…being know her true identity?

Few were privy to such knowledge, and yet this woman—no, this being—knew it without hesitation.

Sensing her hesitation, the woman crossed her hands underneath her bust.

"Forgive me, but I cannot control my power," the woman continued with a smirk, her tone dripping with arrogance. The storm raged harder around them, as if feeding off her presence, each bolt of lightning striking closer to the ground, each clap of thunder louder than the last. It was a deliberate display, a warning that she was not to be trifled with.

"Lead me to Raiden Makoto; I wish to speak with the Goddess of Inazuma, not her shadow," the woman demanded.

Ei's gaze hardened, her grip tightening on her polearm. In one swift motion, she swung the blade toward the woman's neck. The weapon moved with deadly precision, yet only grazed her skin, drawing no blood.

"I won't repeat myself, Raiden Ei," the woman warned, her voice now edged with menace. As she spoke, the killing intent that radiated from her crashed over Inazuma like a tsunami, a wave of pure malice that threatened to crush everything in its path.

Ei gritted her teeth. "I'm afraid I cannot allow that."

How annoying.

These Gods…even though millions of years has passed, they're still the same as ever.

"Then, I shall force my way through," the woman declared, her voice carrying the promise of devastation.

Golden lightning exploded in Ei's vision as the woman disappeared, her form already ahead, moving with the speed of a lightning strike. The storm above Inazuma roared in response, the winds howling louder, the rain falling harder, as the fury of the heavens seemed ready to be unleashed in full. Ei's eyes widened in shock, but she was already in pursuit, the storm now a mere prelude to the battle that was about to begin.

---

Author Notes:

---

Would you look at that, I hadn't expected to write this long…this is the longest chapter I have ever written! So, shower me with praises, will you? Hehe. And did you know? I turned 26 a week ago.

Anyway, there's a huge lore drop here, one I believe neither of you expected to see. I had fun writing this, and I loved every second I poured into this chapter. The relationship between Naruto and Havria will grow from this moment onwards. Istaroth has feelings for him, and they will meet again someday; after all, the current Istaroth is just a fraction of her true self… just like Naruto himself, though he is unaware of it.

After this chapter, I'm going to write about the battle going on in Inazuma. In case people are wondering what Istaroth looks like, you can head to Google and search for Aponia from Honkai Impact. As for the dragon lady at the end of the chapter, search for Jade from Honkai Star Rail. I believe that during the Archon War, Yae Miko was alive; that's why she has a young form in her appearance, she was still innocent… unlike the present Yae Miko lol. From this moment onwards, the story will take a darker turn, so beware of that!

As for Amos and Decarabian, I'm not that great at writing such drama… so take it easy on me. Regardless of that, Amos refused to forgive Decarabian, even if she was reincarnated within the next fifty million years. This is parallel to how patient and loving Istaroth is towards Naruto, despite the fact that the latter didn't really care about her. And yes, this confirms it, he has existed even before the creation of Teyvat.

After delving a bit deeper, there are some inconsistencies within the Genshin lore. If you search the Heavenly Principle, the image shown is that of Asmoday. However, the Primordial One is named Phane, and the image of Phane is that of Asmoday (Unknown Goddess). God, it's confusing lol. That's why, during the absence of Phane, Asmoday took the mantle of the Heavenly Principles. I also decided to add some names for Lady Gunnhildr, Lord Lawrence, and others. The name Charlotte means "free-man," hence why she seeks the freedom of Mondstadt, and Gehard means "brave with the spear," as if saying he will do everything in his power to overcome the tyrant god, all in the name of Freedom.

Aside from that, the four shining shades each have their own names: Nyssa, Istaroth, Asmoday, and Mira. Each of these names has its own meaning, but I believe Asmoday and Istaroth are merely titles… so, I'll have to come up with better names for both of them later on… or I can just keep calling them Istaroth and Asmoday. Let me know what you think, and feel free to suggest a name for the two if you feel it's necessary to change them.

As for the dragon lady at the end, I'm thinking of giving her the tile Raijin, with her name being Eve… well, I'll make a decision in the next chapter. If you have a suggestion for her name, let me know in the review section. If you have any questions or are confused about certain things, let me know. Feel free to drop them either as a PM or in a review.

Ahhh, also, I started a "Treat Me" page on BuyMeaCoffee, under the name Yam117. If you love my work and feel like treating me to a cup of coffee, please feel free to support me (I hope you do, since I need all the help, I can get to buy a new laptop!). But if you feel burdened or think I'm forcing you to help, you can just ignore it. If you do decide to help, I would be glad to receive your kindness Hehe. Let me know what are your thoughts about this chapter, give a favorite and follow if you haven't already. Now with that out of the way, I'm going to start addressing the reviews:

Zenchi a zen'n no kamii: Well, I found that line cool, that's why I put it into my writing hehe. To address another part of your review, should I really start a ? If I did, the chapters schedule on fanfiction will be monthly instead of weekly. Aside from that, yes, I agree, there are Gods that met an unfair ending, that's why I decided to change their fates on this fanfiction of mine. Glad you liked it.

Tuvanhuman17: I'm not that fond with Layla to be honest…so I can't promise anything.

Rick12: Yes, I understand, the Archons do fear the Celestia, and they have every right to fear the Heavenly Principle. This – Archon War- exist with Naruto present, and his existence will shift the balance of the Gods, meaning in their eyes, especially the Gods of Mondstadt the strongest being they ever witness currently is Naruto, and they – willing to defy and join Havria- because Naruto exist. Hence, why Decarabian took that gamble since he despised the Celestia and how arrogant they were to the Gods of Teyvat, and joined Havria's side instead of continuing with the civil war. This will be explained in future chapter, and you will see Naruto's full capability soon (Not to a full extend though, but you get what I mean). But another reason, will be shown in the future chapter and it's connected with the thing that managed to corrupt Andrius.

Teemo: No spoilers mate, you just need to wait in the future chapters.

Arrexu: Seems we got a winner here hehe. But sorry to disappoint you.

DovahBro: Glad you agreed, and for the pairings I'll try not to make it sound forced, instead most of them needs to have an intimacy point (this an example) where certain people might have felt towards him but it will take time. Not something like any harem anime where every girl suddenly flocked on the MC lol

EVIL-SAGE: The harem is confirmed, not for the pairings yet. Official pairings are Havria, Ei, Istaroth and Rukkhadevata (Goddesses) and mortal for now is only Eula (I still cannot decide with the others).

BlackRazor077: Thank you for the suggestion, Ill keep those in mind but in all honesty, I want Makoto dead…not because I hate her but I believe her death brought a lesson for Ei…. if I want to add her to the harem, I need to do some alteration, and don't you worry, it will be an epic one. Just imagine a Naruto suddenly entering the battle in Khanneriah…well, no spoilers lol.

Lucifer28: Yes, Focalor will make an appearance but not one you would expect, since Egeria still exist in this 'timeline'.

Gilgamesh50: No, it will be updated weekly, this is the schedule.

InfiniteNexusofChaos: Can't always have chaos, it needs to be balance. But, you will see more of it once we get to Inazuma and Liyue.

AetherialQ: Since you mentioned it like that, I just realized that you were right lol, both Naruto and Rover forgot certain aspects of the past, however Naruto isn't as dire as Rover (Since she (fem Rover) even forgot her own name). The similarity between them is both going to find the truth why they forgot, what did they forgot, and how will they regain back those memories. Now with the second statement, I want to ask, is it Furina or Focalor? Cause, I believe both were suffering from preventing the Prophecy. Nonetheless, if I want to add Furina to the pairing, it will be for later chapter, perhaps after the timeskip since Egeria is still alive and Focalor is merely a child (young). This means Furina doesn't exist either, she is after all the mortal form of Focalor. But yeah, I feel you, her backstory is just sad, and after knowing Celestia is actually asleep, then her act in stopping the prophecy might be for nothing, then again, without her doing that, the reincarnated Hydro Sovereign (Neuvilette) wouldn't be siding with humanity.

Aruto-kun: Jean, huh…I do like her as a character. I promise nothing though, but thank you for the suggestion the the kind messaage.

NatsuErzaDragneelSusanoo: Now you gotta wait for the fifth chapter, before I take a one-month break.

Redlox2: It has been a while, hasn't it? I haven't gotten the chance to read your recent updates and was thinking of re-reading it from the first chapter. For Eula, I agree, her past is just tragic, she's more similar to Naruto…minus the part no one accepted her except the Knight of Favonius. If, if I'm going with the canon route, the Lawrence clan will be divided into two faction, meaning some still retains their 'righteous for justice' and Eula will have another reason for why she wanted to protect Mondstadt. Or… the other faction could join Vindagnyr instead.

Pandeynewmar123: When his phone is ringing…get it? Lol. Soz, that was a terrible joke, but he will meet Morax soon.

Dragonkeeper10: Who doesn't love a good partner that is kind, caring, and charming? Maybe a minority of women (no offense to the women that are reading my fics), it's just that in my country, some women tend to go for the bad boy type, and once the relationship broke up, they will come up with a slogan "All men are the same" …meh, forget the real life. In Havria's case, he is more than just a saviour and she now realize her feeling towards him is more than just friends.

Brachiosaurus: I get that, I'm going to take a break once I finished writing the tenth chapter since I need to prepare for an upcoming exam, wish me luck mate. Regardless, thank you for the kind message, and hopefully I will continue to ablaze the future chapters.

Adiputra02: 5K will be the standard, but if it involves fighting/action, the chapter might get longer since I feel people will feel bored if nothing goes on but the chapter was longer.

ZhongEi: Gak ada niat ditinggalkan, cuman lagi ada urusan aja di real life, dan mager update, selain itu juga kadang terkendala di 'writer block'. Terima kasih juga ada do'a nya, semoga kamu juga sehat selalu untuk memberikan review di chapter-chapter yang akan datang hehe.

That's all from me, before I head out, I want to mention I'm going to take a month or two break since I'm going to take an exam soon. You might see one last update before I take a break, this applied for both God of Shinobi and A Mentor's Legacy though no promises and if a week has passed yet you see no new chapter meaning you have to wait for the next two months for me to resume writing. Wish me luck on the exam, and I see you next week, if not, I'll see you somewhere around October. See ya!