Chapter 58: 50 Millions Yen!

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"Excuse me, are you Hyoudou-san?" the older man inquired, his tone laced with curiosity. "The yanki boy who builds the bikes for the esteemed Daisaku family?"

Issei, though maintaining his usual calm demeanor, nodded in acknowledgment. "Yes, that would be me. How can I assist you?"

Usually, the older man would not engage with such young, delinquent individuals like Issei. However, due to Issei's proven usefulness to the Daisaku family, he decided to extend an intriguing offer on behalf of the powerful Ryujin Clan. He motioned to one of his well-built bodyguards, instructing them to hand a black leather briefcase to Issei.

With a sense of anticipation tinged with caution, Issei slowly opened the briefcase to uncover a substantial sum of money nestled inside. The sight of stacks of cash caused a flicker of surprise to dance across his usually composed features. The bodyguard deliberately shut the briefcase once again, maintaining an air of secrecy.

"50 million yen," the older man pronounced, his voice conveying both seriousness and significance. "If you agree to take on a little job for us, this considerable amount is yours."

Issei's interest was piqued. The sheer magnitude of the sum indicated that this task must be of utmost importance. After all, Issei was accustomed to receiving payment for his exceptional craftsmanship on custom motorcycles, but never before had he been offered such a substantial reward.

"I must admit," he spoke, his tone laced with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism, "your offer certainly commands attention. However, I am merely a motorcycle technician. The most I have ever been compensated for my work was 10 million yen, for those intricate custom jobs I undertook for the Daisaku family. May I inquire as to the nature of this particular assignment you are proposing?"

The older man's nod confirmed the truth behind Issei's impressive reputation as a motorcycle technician. The Daisaku family, renowned for their exceptional street racing skills, had recognized the value of Issei's custom motorcycle jobs and had paid him handsomely for his expertise.

However, unfortunate circumstances had befallen the family. Several of their most skilled racers, including the esteemed Ken Daisaku himself, had suffered injuries that rendered them unable to partake in future races.

This void left a significant gap in their racing team, as the Daisaku family's custom motorcycles were unrivaled in speed and power, yet required a level of expertise that few possessed.

Issei's curiosity got the better of him, compelling him to question further. "If I understand correctly, you want me to modify your motorcycles for someone else?"

The older man's gaze remained fixed upon Issei's face as he replied, a sense of urgency lacing his words. "Indeed. Tonight, an extraordinarily high-stakes race is set to take place in Kyoto, with over a billion yen resting on the line. The Ryujin Clan, as one of the most formidable organizations in Japan, needs a racer who can guarantee our victory in this pivotal event."

Issei's interest surged, now genuinely captivated by the proposition before him. "So, you've come to me specifically for this purpose?"

Meeting Issei's gaze squarely, the man's eyes glimmered with an unwavering determination. "Your reputation precedes you, Hyoudou-san. Amongst the highest echelons of our organization, your name is synonymous with supremacy on the racing circuit. The families in this area refer to you as the Red Dragon of Kuoh, declaring that you have yet to taste defeat and possess an indomitable spirit. If such rumors hold true, then we would be honored to sponsor you as our racer in tonight's race, giving you the chance to solidify your status as the unparalleled champion of the streets."

Issei's eyes narrowed, his determination evident as he responded with a stern tone. "If a billion yen truly hangs in the balance, then the initial offer of 50 million seems inadequate. I require a greater sum for my participation."

The older man, understanding the gravity of the situation, attempted to explain. "Consider the 50 million as a down payment, an act of good faith. Rest assured, our honor as the Ryujin Clan is also at stake, which is why we are prepared to offer you a substantial cut of the winnings. We are willing to extend a 25 percent share to you."

Issei's dissatisfaction crept into his voice as he questioned the fairness of the arrangement. "Only 25 percent? That seems rather shortsighted in proportion to the risks involved."

Unfazed by Issei's firmness, the older man revealed additional insights. "You must understand that this offer is already far more generous than what we typically propose. Ken Daisaku himself mentioned that you would demand a significant cut. It's important to grasp the fact that the race's winnings encompass not only the bets but also the lucrative sponsorship deals, which predominantly fund the Ryujin family's operations."

Issei pondered for a moment, considering the weight of the offer on the table against his usual earnings. "Well, it is a considerable increase from my regular income. However, I propose a counteroffer. I will proceed with your proposal if you agree to a 35 percent share of the winnings."

One of the bodyguards, bristling with visible disdain, could no longer contain his emotions. A sharp retort was on the tip of his tongue, but he fell silent with a swift raised hand from the older man, signaling for him to withhold his frustrations.

The seasoned businessman regarded Issei with a mixture of respect and amusement. "You possess a boldness and assertiveness that aligns perfectly with what we seek in a racer. Your audacity is both admirable and intriguing. I am prepared to meet you halfway. I offer you a 30 percent share of the winnings. Keep in mind, we are talking about a sum that easily exceeds 300 million yen. Quite a substantial figure, wouldn't you agree?"

As the negotiations came to an agreeable resolution, Issei exhaled a satisfied breath before shifting gears to inquire about the race logistics with a casual air. "So, you mentioned the race will take place in Kyoto. By the way, how exactly did your racers sustain their injuries? Did they misjudge a sharp turn or something?"

The nonchalant ease with which Issei approached the situation raised eyebrows among some of the men in the room. However, the older man understood the need for clarity and proceeded to provide an explanation. "Our skilled racers were unfortunately targeted and injured by a rival organization's star racer. These rivals have been systematically sabotaging our underground operations in Kyoto. If left unchecked, they will undoubtedly extend their disruptive influence into Kuoh as well. Initially, we were prepared to engage in a full-fledged war against them. However, the rival clan proposed a more honorable solution—a final, decisive race between their best racer and ours. It was with the recommendation of the Daisaku family that we agreed to this offer, and it is with their endorsement that we seek to sponsor you."

Issei's interest was piqued, and a spark of excitement glimmered in his eyes. "Well, if you're looking to win a race, then you've certainly found the right person for the job. Just tell me where and when, and I'll be there."

The older man paused for a moment, his gaze shifting as he considered the weight of his next words. "There is something you should know about your opponent. They call him Mr. Black. He has garnered quite a reputation for himself, earning a level of infamy nearly on par with your own."

"Mr. Black," Issei echoed, a hint of confusion mixing with his curiosity. It was a name unfamiliar to him, entwined in mystery.

"We possess limited information about this enigmatic opponent, Mr. Black, except for the fact that he is a lethal foreign mercenary," the older man coldly informed Issei, his tone emphasizing the gravity of the situation. "Defeating him would not only secure victory for the Ryujin family but also bring great honor to our name. I must stress that he has remained undefeated thus far."

With unyielding pride and confidence, Issei dismissed any concerns that may have lingered in the minds of those present. "I couldn't care less about who he is or what reputation he carries. If he dares to challenge me, he will soon find himself crashing and burning."

Now that the crucial details were settled, the older man proceeded to share the specifics of the race. It was to take place in Kyoto, precisely at midnight, atop the Tiger Casino Parking Garage. A representative would be provided to guide Issei to the designated location.

One of the bodyguards, unable to contain his skepticism, voiced his doubts about entrusting their honor and financial interests to what he dismissed as a mere "punk kid." However, the older Yakuza man's faith in Ken Daisaku's endorsement of Issei's racing prowess was unshakable. He understood the stakes were high, and admitted that failure was not an option due to the severe consequences at hand.

Issei's confidence remained unwavering, his voice resolute. "I assure you, I will emerge victorious. You can count on it," he proclaimed, his eyes gleaming with unyielding determination.

To solidify the agreement, the older man signaled to his bodyguard, who promptly handed over the briefcase to Issei. The stern warning that accompanied the exchange lingered in the air. "Consider that your down payment. You better be there, Issei Hyoudou. I will be closely monitoring your performance."

As the meeting drew to a close, the suited men departed in their dark vehicles, leaving Issei to immerse himself in contemplation. The weight of the upcoming challenge settled upon his shoulders as anticipation and resolve intertwined within him, setting the stage for a clash between legends.

Sitting atop his sleek motorcycle, Issei glanced at the time displayed on his phone's screen, noting that it was already 6:15 PM. Time was of the essence if he wanted to reach Kyoto in time for the high-stakes race. The exhilaration of venturing beyond the familiar streets of Kuoh and the prospect of pocketing some extra money stirred excitement within him. Before embarking on this thrilling adventure, however, Issei had a responsibility to fulfill.

Thoughts of the girls he lived with infiltrated his mind, reminding him of the school expenses that needed to be met. Issei made a mental note to drop off a portion of the rightfully earned funds at home before proceeding to the race. This way, he would ensure that the girls' educational needs were taken care of and alleviate any concerns they might have.

Understanding his plans, the concerned shop owner couldn't help but express his reservations regarding Issei's decision. He questioned the wisdom of participating in such a dangerous endeavor, but Issei was quick to reassure him.

With trust in his abilities and a desire to share the fruits of his success, he handed over stacks of money to the shop owner, urging him to accept the funds and use them to upgrade the shop. It was a gesture that reflected Issei's loyalty and gratitude towards the place that had provided him with employment and allowed him to pursue his passion for motorcycle customization.

Securing the briefcase, filled to the brim with the promised payment, onto the back of his motorcycle, Issei prepared himself mentally and physically for the grueling race that awaited him. With an unwavering determination and the audacity to challenge not only his opponent but the conventions of his own life, Issei revved the engine, unleashing a powerful roar that symbolized his readiness to face the unknown.

As the wheels of his bike gripped the road's surface, Issei's mind focused solely on the upcoming race. With fiery resolve burning within him, he embarked on the journey to Kyoto, fully prepared to push himself to the limits, prove his worth on the racing circuit, and bring glory not only to himself but also to the Ryujin family.