Qingguang climbed the steps one at a time. He could already hear Tsunade and Hiruzen Sarutobi confronting each other.
"Tsunade, the ranks of Root need to be replenished. There's no help for that. As for the orphanage's funding, I've never withheld a single coin."
"Never withheld a single coin?"
"Then tell me this: it clearly says here that the orphanage receives ten million ryo every year. So why are the children still wearing patched-up rags, and eating nothing but wild-vegetable porridge and black bread?"
In one sentence, she had left Hiruzen Sarutobi speechless.
Did she really need to ask?
Of course Danzo had secretly diverted the funds to Root.
But Hiruzen absolutely couldn't say that out loud.
Just then, through the broken doorframe, he spotted Qingguang.
"Big Sis, the Hokage really doesn't know about this. Lord Danzo has always been in charge of the orphanage's funding."
"Qingguang, are you sure Danzo was in charge?"
"Yes. For the past two years, Lord Danzo left me to handle the orphanage's funding, but..."
"But what? Don't be afraid to say it. I've got your back today. Whatever the problem is, I'll handle it!" Tsunade slammed her palm onto Hiruzen Sarutobi's desk. Cracks spread across its surface, making him jump.
But inwardly, he finally breathed a sigh of relief.
Whew... Qingguang showed up at just the right time. There are far too many secrets between Danzo and me. The embezzlement at the orphanage can come to light, but I absolutely can't be the one to expose it.
Tsunade brought it up, and Qingguang backed her up. This is the best possible solution.
Not only would it give me a legitimate reason to rein in Root, it might also let Qingguang see the deeper darkness within Danzo and grow disgusted with him.
Perfect!
"Qingguang, I