The Hubbub Before the Start

Though that guy probably wouldn't appreciate it.

Naruto still had to make the necessary preparations himself. Who knew whether that idiot might get into trouble on his own? That could easily disrupt Naruto's plans. For both personal and public reasons, Naruto wouldn't allow such an accident to happen.

"Yeah, I understand. Don't worry about that, Naruto. I'm ready to go at any time!"

Neji nodded in understanding and replied.

After that,

Naruto and Neji exchanged views on several key issues concerning the summit.

Then Neji left to take care of the remaining arrangements.

In the vast office,

Naruto was once again left alone.

Standing before the broad floor-to-ceiling window,

Naruto continued gazing toward the area where Konoha's compound lay to the west. A faintly resolute look appeared on his face as he clenched his fist slightly, then slowly relaxed it.

"Hinata, please allow me to be selfish one last time..."

He murmured the words under his breath.

As he spoke,

Naruto made up his mind.

The final arrangements before the summit—

they were also the most important part of the entire plan.

After the Konoha Delegation arrived,

the Iwagakure and Sunagakure delegations, which had traveled the farthest, also arrived at the Snow Ninja Village one after another. On the surface, the delegations from the Five Great Shinobi Villages seemed to be quietly staying in the lodgings arranged for them, without making any unusual moves. But Naruto knew full well that Ninja were inherently untrustworthy. Besides, the Snow Ninja Village was currently at its most unusual, chaotic stage, with all kinds of people mixed together.

Simply maintaining basic order

had already taken up most of the Snow Ninja's attention.

What's more, with their limited number of strong fighters,

the Snow Ninja Village couldn't possibly monitor the villages' private dealings with perfect