Shadow of the Uchiha Guard

The streets bustled with activity, a testament to the village's prosperity. For a traveler like Bai Ye, who had witnessed numerous places comparable to Bibi Ye Fan, this was yet another vibrant locale.

The technological landscape of the Hidden Leaf Village intrigued him. A unique blend of advanced technology coexisted with traditional ninjutsu. Mobile phones were prevalent, yet during the ninja wars, information was relayed personally, a paradox he chose not to ponder deeply.

"Mr. Bai Ye, over here!"

A sweet voice called out. Bai Ye responded with a gentle smile, approaching the entrance of a dango shop. There, Kurenai Yuhi awaited, her shyness evident as she took his arm. Beside her, Anko Mitarashi pouted, having earlier advised her friend to maintain some reservation around boys.

In the world of ninjas, relationships often progressed swiftly. Many bonds were formed during childhood, with feelings pure and straightforward—Hinata's affection for Naruto being a prime example. Now, Kurenai was Bai Ye's girlfriend, adding a touch of love to his otherwise disciplined life.

"Today, we have a guest," Bai Ye remarked, extending a warm invitation to Anko. He admired her resilience; after Orochimaru's defection, Anko, his disciple, faced suspicion and interrogation but bore it all with a strong heart, perhaps driven by a desire to confront her mentor someday.

"Kurenai!"

The harmonious atmosphere was disrupted by Asuma Sarutobi's arrival.

"I've told you before, we're not that close. Calling me that might lead my boyfriend to misunderstand."

Kurenai tightened her grip on Bai Ye's arm, showing her consideration for his feelings. Ignoring Asuma, she led Bai Ye and Anko into the dango shop.

Bai Ye remained silent, harboring no ill will towards Asuma, recognizing him as a product of his upbringing. As the Hokage's son, Asuma had been a playboy in his youth, seeking his father's approval by joining the Guardian Shinobi Twelve. Upon his return, he embraced the Sarutobi family's traditions, eager to start his own family. But now, Kurenai was with Bai Ye, and he intended to savor their blossoming relationship, perhaps deepening their bond that very evening.

"Kurenai, I'm leaving the village tomorrow."

Asuma's attempt to elicit a reaction fell flat. Kurenai, unfazed, focused on feeding Bai Ye a dango.

"When it comes to dango, I prefer imported ones."

Kurenai's puzzled expression shifted to understanding as Anko's playful gestures clarified Bai Ye's innuendo. Blushing, she leaned in closer.

"Oh~"

"Click~"

Anko's teasing exclamation and Asuma's silent heartbreak marked the moment.

"Red!"

Asuma's frustration boiled over, his roar echoing his shattered feelings.

Bai Ye met his gaze calmly. Beside him, Kurenai addressed him formally.

"Captain Bai Ye, may I report something?"

Her recent affectionate gesture seemed to embolden her. She continued, "Sarutobi Asuma has been harassing me lately, seriously affecting my daily life. Do the guards handle such cases?"

Bai Ye sighed internally, suspecting her earlier gesture was a form of 'protection payment.' He snapped his fingers, pointing at Asuma.

"Arrest him!"

"I suspect he's associated with Mito Qingteng, who betrayed the village. As captain of the Konoha Guard, I won't tolerate such actions!"

His authoritative demeanor was captivating. Kurenai's admiration for Bai Ye grew, overlooking his possible misuse of power. Being Bai Ye's girlfriend was indeed rewarding.

"Yes, Captain!"

The guards acted promptly. Asuma's lineage offered no immunity; resistance would be met with force.

The commotion subsided. Bai Ye enjoyed Kurenai's adoring gaze while savoring his dango. However, the incident quickly became the talk of the village.

Before they could finish their meal, Kakashi Hatake appeared, his demeanor serious.

"He's the Hokage's son, after all."

Kakashi's remark hung in the air. Receiving no response, he continued.

"The Third Hokage reviewed your report. He believes there's been a misunderstanding."

Bai Ye chuckled, recognizing the subtle nuances—a blend of threat, compromise, and probing. But he preferred directness. With a sincere expression, he replied to Kakashi, "I expect appropriate compensation."