Morpheus. But if you’re worried, perhaps you could provide him

with some incentive not to do his job so well, ” suggested Shiro.

Nishikawa frowned. It was typical of this turncoat to believe that

everybody had a price. “From what I know of Morpheus, trying to

buy him off would be a waste of time. He has an enviable

reputation. He is the complete professional. Once he’s accepted a

contract, he always sticks by its terms, regardless of the

circumstances.”

“It’s worth a try, ” said Shiro.

“Then let the offer come from you, ” said Nishikawa dryly. “If he

accepts, which I very much doubt he will, I will supply the money.

But it is more likely that, having accepted a commission from your

father, he will report the offer to him. If you wish to take that

chance, it’s up to you. I have no desire to have my name come out

in this matter.”

Shiro considered the possibility. “He would be foolish to turn

down a greater sum. Especially since he would not have to do

anything to earn it.”

“Then make the offer. But my name had better be kept out of it.

If my hand in this matter is revealed, I can promise you that you

will never see America.”

“You don’t have to make threats, Don Nishikawa. I fully

understand the risks I’m taking. And I might add that I’m taking

them on your behalf.”

Nishikawa grimaced with distaste. “Spare me your hypocrisy.

You’re doing this for yourself and no one else.”

“Perhaps, but you stand to profit the most from it. Otherwise we

wouldn’t be here, would we? I can see to it that Morpheus is

approached discreetly. He doesn’t need to know who is behind it.

And if he refuses, he can always be eliminated.”

“You? Eliminate Morpheus?” Nishikawa chuckled. “That is

something I would like to see.”

“I would not do it personally, of course, ” said Shiro. “I am not a

fool. The man is a professional assassin. I am not. But he is still

only a man. He is not immortal.”