The Issues He Wanted to Take into Account

"Kakashi and Shikaku said that?"

A crucial issue had been raised.

Naruto temporarily pulled himself out of his earlier reverie and turned to look at Neji, who had come to stand beside him. His brow furrowed slightly as he spoke.

"They both seem to feel that way. The main concern is Shikamaru and the others. And then there's... no, never mind..."

Neji chose his words carefully. He mentioned Shikamaru first, then seemed about to say something more. But for some reason, he held back. Naruto could understand the unspoken meaning without having to ask.

"I see. So that's how it is. I understand. You really went to a lot of trouble playing this role today, Neji."

Naruto spoke as if he felt somewhat guilty.

A heart of stone.

This was a quality that those in power needed to possess in many situations: not letting outside influences or personal feelings sway them. It was especially important. There was even a saying that those who achieved great things didn't fuss over trifles. But when it came down to the individual, it was undoubtedly an extremely difficult thing to do. Naruto was no exception. Don't think that when he chose to defect two and a half years ago and treated Hinata coldly during the pursuit, he had decided to abandon her completely. It had simply been another way of protecting her.

Naruto didn't want anyone to know he still loved Hinata deeply.

Because he was afraid that one day someone might use Hinata to threaten him.

Don't think that could never happen.

The world of Ninja...

It was as filthy as it could possibly be.

Beneath its polished exterior...

The profession of Ninja was darker, crueler, bloodier, and more despicable than any other!

And on that point...

Shimura Danzō of Konoha had mastered