Naruto: Binding Uchiha Sasuke, Hundredfold Return

Sasuke, now a rogue ninja of Konoha, was still seen as a renegade in the eyes of many who didn't know the whole story, including Kurenai. Although she viewed him as a dangerous individual, she couldn't help but feel some sympathy and understanding for his circumstances.

"You two really are something else." Kurenai remarked, a slight smile on her face as if recalling a fond memory. "One of you is the mightiest guardian of Konoha, and the other... its most dangerous enemy. You're just one tragedy away from becoming legends."

Kazuki was silent.

"Do you hold a grudge against Sasuke?" Kurenai asked, her tone curious.

Ever since Asuma had been killed by Sasuke, Kurenai had been living a quiet life alone. Fortunately—or unfortunately—Asuma hadn't left behind a legacy.

"A grudge?" Kurenai shook her head, pondering. "I don't know. Asuma and I had known each other for years and were just starting something, but it hadn't really deepened. Sasuke took his life, but I can't quite grasp what that loss means to me, or how I should feel about it."

True bonds are built over time, and that's just as true of friendship as it is of love.

Kazuki, seeing Kurenai's mood shift, decided to change the subject.

"So, how have things been? Keeping busy with new students?"

Kurenai sighed, exasperated. "Non-stop! Ever since the Fifth Hokage took over, the number of students at the Ninja Academy has just been climbing, and it's impossible to keep up with the demand for training with just a handful of Jounin."

Kazuki chuckled, "I remember back when we graduated, nine graduates in a year was something special. Now, dozens finish each year. Even I've had to get back out there."

"Really? I'm surprised the Fifth Hokage would ask you to take on that role," Kurenai said, genuinely intrigued.

"No, it was my choice—just something to kill the boredom." Kazuki placed his hands behind his head, leaning back with a smirk.

Kurenai shot him a playful look. "With a house full of beautiful women, and you're bored?"

Over the years, Kazuki had, indeed, settled down with several women, much like the legacy of Gekko's own Hikime. The only difference? Kazuki's taste was arguably finer.

"After years of doing the same thing day in and day out, anyone would get bored." Kazuki shrugged.

Turning to him, Kurenai's red eyes sparkled with mischief. "Maybe you think the 'flowers outside' have a fresher scent?"

Kazuki rolled his eyes and scooted away from her. "I'm not that kind of man. Please, Kurenai, give me some credit."

"Yeah, yeah," Kurenai laughed, teasing him. She gave him a light jab to the chest. "So, it's getting late. Aren't you heading home?"

"I'll go soon," he replied nonchalantly, knowing his house, bustling with energy, awaited him every night.

"Well, I'm heading back," Kurenai announced, brushing off her clothes and preparing to leave.

Kazuki didn't move to see her off, looking rather indifferent.

Kurenai, a bit annoyed, leaned close, gazing at him intensely.

"Why did you marry so many women?"

Kazuki raised a brow. "Why do you ask?"

"Curiosity," she replied earnestly.

"Well… to stay with the people I care about." Kazuki pondered for a moment before answering.

"That's it?" she probed, still not quite convinced.

"Do you think there's another reason?" Kazuki retorted.

Kurenai arched a brow. "No base desires involved?"

Kazuki replied openly, "Of course, there were. I won't deny I have my… less noble motives."

"Typical," Kurenai scoffed, shaking her head. "Men, they're all the same. No exception!"

Kazuki snickered. "If you want a pure-hearted romance, maybe try dating one of those Ninja Academy students. They have nothing but youthful energy—perfect for someone like you."

Kurenai rolled her eyes. "I'm not a kid. In a few years, I'll be thirty."

"Then what's your plan?"

"I'll find someone and settle down."

"Good idea. Got anyone in mind?"

"No… not yet."

"Then keep looking."

"I'm working on it."

"Good luck."

"…"

After a pause, Kurenai suddenly said, "You know, you're not a bad option."

Kazuki finally looked her in the eyes, smiling. "If you're serious, come meet with Yūgao and the others tomorrow. Win them over, and I'll throw you a wedding."

"…Get lost!"

She laughed, giving him a playful kick before turning and walking away.

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The fanfic is finished on p@treon/tambeerg