After parting ways with his three students, Hiruzen Sarutobi did not linger on the streets.
Besides leading the team to the Land of Hot Water, he also carried several matters that had to be handled at the Daimyo's Palace—
Konoha's fiscal accounts for the year needed to be submitted to the Daimyo's Palace for verification, several material procurement agreements needed to be confirmed in person, and there were also matters concerning next year's mission quotas that had originally required someone to make the trip.
Since he was passing through, he could settle them all at once.
He returned to the inn, changed into a formal dark kimono, organized the documents he needed, and placed them in a document case. He was just about to leave.
Footsteps sounded outside. Guided by the innkeeper, a middle-aged man wearing the official uniform of the Daimyo's Palace hurried over.
"Lord Hokage Assistant Sarutobi."
The visitor bowed.
"I am Sato, an external affairs official of the Daimyo's Palace.
"His Highness the Daimyo heard that you were passing through and specifically sent me to invite you to tonight's banquet.
"His Highness said that since you rarely visit, you must honor us with your presence."
Hiruzen Sarutobi was slightly taken aback.
What a coincidence.
He had originally planned to visit the Daimyo's Palace to submit the documents. Now that he had been directly invited to the banquet, he could skip the trouble of reporting in and waiting.
Besides, his three students had gone sightseeing on their own and would not return until evening, so he could focus on these official matters.
"His Highness is most gracious. Hiruzen would be disrespectful to refuse." He slipped the document case into his sleeve. "Please lead the way."
Sato turned and led the way, and the two left the inn one