In the Hokage's Office, Bieshu Feifan looked at Hiruzen Sarutobi, his face full of suspicion.
"Bro, did you change your mind?
Now that no one's around, have you realized the benefits of protection money too?
Same deal, a seventy-thirty split."
Hiruzen Sarutobi took a puff of smoke, refusing to let Bieshu Feifan lead him around by the nose.
"Feifan, what did Danzo call you over for?"
"Oh, you mean my bro Danzo?
He asked me over to catch up.
I hadn't seen him in ages. I really missed him.
You know what he's like. He's always busy expanding his basement. It's rare to see him."
Once Bieshu Feifan finished, Hiruzen Sarutobi looked into his eyes, utterly serious.
"Feifan, didn't Danzo mention you collecting protection money?"
Bieshu Feifan smiled slightly and met Hiruzen Sarutobi's eyes.
"What's wrong, bro? Having second thoughts?
Don't worry, though. I know what matters. I won't do anything reckless."
Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded.
"Good. About the protection money..."
"For something like protection money, of course I have to work with the local boss.
Danzo isn't the Hokage. Why would I work with him?
Relax, bro. Don't I know you?
The moment you stick out your ass, I know what kind of shit you're going to take."
Hiruzen Sarutobi's face instantly darkened.
But Bieshu Feifan ignored him and pulled out that same stack of money again.
Grinning, he held it out in front of Hiruzen Sarutobi.
"Look, bro. I saved it for you.
Don't worry, I know the rules. There were too many people earlier for you to do anything.
Now it's just us brothers. Stop pretending.
Take the money and help me get things done. You'll get thirty percent of the profits at the end of the month."
The more Hiruzen Sarutobi heard, the darker his face became.