Of course, Hiruzen Sarutobi could still remain Hokage for some time. If necessary, he could have Danzo suppress the White Fang of the Leaf's reputation to give his own disciples a better chance in the race for the position.
But ultimately, his "benevolence" made him reluctant to act against people from his own village.
After sitting in the Hokage's seat for so long, Hiruzen Sarutobi felt he was becoming increasingly conflicted.
Now someone had offered him money to solve Konoha's financial problems, while also taking away the White Fang of the Leaf, the very man who left him so conflicted.
Could such a good deal really exist?
No matter how much prestige the White Fang of the Leaf enjoyed in the village, once he left Konoha, time and Hiruzen's own maneuvering would gradually erode everything he had there.
"Uh, well, about that..."
Although he was delighted inside, he still put on a troubled expression.
"Tetsuya, as you know, Sakumo is one of the village's great heroes. During the war, he ventured alone deep behind enemy lines in the Land of Wind and disrupted Sunagakure's logistical supply lines..."
Watching Hiruzen Sarutobi's reaction, Tetsuya cursed inwardly. You really are a heartless bastard. You just want more money, don't you? Why bring up all this? When Hatake Sakumo died later on, why didn't any of you call him a great hero of the village then?
Still, he smiled as he spoke.
"I understand. I understand perfectly. I can pay extra."
"Oh dear, oh dear! What am I supposed to say to that?"
Hiruzen Sarutobi burst out laughing.
"Ever since the Chiba Commerce Association appeared, the variety of goods available in Konoha has increased, and our villagers' lives have become much richer. That's all thanks to you, Tetsuya. You've contributed so much to Konoha