In a quiet part of the forest, Kurenai Yuhi stood beneath a large tree, facing Chen Xing.
"Say what you wanted," Chen Xing said lazily.
Kurenai's expression was cold.
"I don't care why you came to Konoha," she said. "But stay away from Hinata."
Chen Xing raised an eyebrow.
"Why?"
Kurenai's voice became firm.
"You're the Celestial Shadow of the Land of Bears. Hinata is the heir of the Hyuga Clan. Their bloodline is protected by the village."
She looked directly at him.
"The Byakugan cannot be allowed to leave Konoha."
Chen Xing stepped closer.
"So you came here just to say that?"
Kurenai frowned.
"I don't want Hinata hurt. Leave her alone."
Chen Xing stared at her for a moment, then suddenly pulled her into his arms.
Before she could react, he kissed her.
Kurenai froze.
Then she struggled furiously.
"You bastard!"
She tried to strike him, but Chen Xing easily restrained her.
Her face flushed with anger.
"Let go of me!"
Chen Xing finally released her and stepped back.
Kurenai glared at him, breathing heavily.
"You're unbelievable."
Chen Xing only smiled faintly.
---
The Hyuga Compound
Later, Chen Xing was invited back to the Hyuga Clan residence.
Inside the reception hall, Hiashi Hyuga sat formally across from him.
Tea was placed on the table between them.
"Celestial Shadow," Hiashi said calmly, "I want to ask about your relationship with my daughter."
Chen Xing lifted the teacup.
"You already know."
Hiashi's gaze sharpened.
"The guards reported that you and Hinata are very close."
He paused.
"That is not appropriate."
Chen Xing watched him quietly.
Hiashi continued.
"The Byakugan is the foundation of the Hyuga Clan. Its bloodline must never leave the village."
Chen Xing set the cup down.
"So you're worried about the Byakugan leaving Konoha."
Hiashi nodded without hesitation.
"That cannot be allowed."
Chen Xing smiled faintly.
"The Byakugan is powerful, but I have no interest in it."
Hiashi frowned slightly.
Chen Xing continued.
"In fact, the Byakugan can evolve further."
Hiashi immediately stood up in shock.
"What did you say?"
Chen Xing met his gaze calmly.
"The Hyuga Clan has forgotten much about its own origins."
Hiashi's heart pounded.
"Explain."
Chen Xing shook his head.
"Information has a price."
Hiashi slowly calmed himself.
"And what price do you want?"
Chen Xing looked directly at him.
"Isn't it obvious?"
Hiashi's expression hardened.
"The Byakugan is the Hyuga Clan's bloodline. It will never be given away."
Chen Xing simply smiled, saying nothing more.