Deep within an abandoned mine tunnel on the border of the Land of Iron, the sound of water dripping from cracks in the rock was especially clear in the darkness.
Hyuga Xiao sat cross-legged beside the campfire, the blue crystal on his forehead glowing faintly. His eyes were closed, yet his consciousness floated within some wondrous realm—the Giant Lunar Tenseigan's connection was like an icy river, endlessly pouring knowledge beyond human comprehension into his mind.
"Cosmic Law 3,721: Emotions are a redundant program through which lower-dimensional life maintains individuality."
"Ōtsutsuki Clan evolutionary path, Stage Seven: Only by stripping away the seven emotions can one bear the origin of the God Tree."
"Optimal utilization efficiency of Branch House souls: ocular power extraction rate 87.3%; remaining spirit bodies may be converted into Tenseigan driving energy..."
Streams of cold data washed over his consciousness.
Xiao slowly opened his eyes.
The flickering firelight fell across his face. His once-gentle Byakugan now carried a faint blue glow. He looked at Kurenai Yuhi, who was organizing her ninja tool pouch across from him—she carefully wiped a kunai clean, and when her fingers brushed over its edge, a lock of red hair slipped down beside her cheek.
Data automatically surfaced in Xiao's mind:
[Target: Kurenai Yuhi]
[Combat assessment: Special Jōnin level; genjutsu specialist; weakness in taijutsu]
[Emotional bond value: 87/100 (deep dependence)]
[Usable value: 1. Can serve as a Humanity Anchor against Divine Erosion (current efficiency: 32%); 2. Genjutsu abilities can assist intelligence gathering; 3. If her soul is sacrificed, the fusion process of the Pact Stone and Caged Bird Seal can be accelerated (estimated increase: 41.7%)]
Cold numbers danced before his eyes.
Xiao's fingers curled unconsciously.
"What is it?" Hong looked up, sharply noticing his gaze. "Does your wound hurt again?"
There was genuine concern in