Xuandou's voice was quiet, yet it rang out with particular clarity in Hozuki Island's deathly still sea breeze.
His words were like a pebble dropping into a tranquil lake, sending ripples through Kaguya's heart.
Kaguya froze.
Her white eyes suddenly widened, her pupils contracting slightly, as though she had heard something utterly inconceivable.
After a moment of shock, a barely perceptible blush rose to her cheeks, then gave way to anger and wariness.
"Y-you... what nonsense are you talking about!"
Kaguya's voice rose a little, carrying obvious resistance and embarrassed anger.
"I am the progenitor of chakra, the Rabbit Goddess!"
"Y-you... how dare you say such things to me!"
She took a step back, wariness appearing in her eyes.
"Y-you... don't tell me that after merging with the God Tree, you think you're stronger and want to force yourself on me?"
Watching her reaction, Xuandou did not advance any farther. Instead, he took a step back and raised both hands in surrender, his tone relaxed.
"Relax. I'm only asking for your opinion."
"If you're unwilling, of course I won't force you."
"But if you change your mind someday, you're always welcome!"
Kaguya stared at him for a long time, her eyes full of distrust, as though trying to judge whether he meant what he said.
She bit her lip before finally leaving him with a single remark.
"I'm going to find Isshiki!"
Then she turned and hurried away, disappearing into the expanse where sea and sky blended together.
Xuandou remained where he stood, an inscrutable expression on his face.
Kaguya's reaction did not surprise him in the slightest.
He had brought it up this time merely to let Kaguya know in advance that he had this idea.
It was a way of preparing her.
Once he found a suitable opportunity