Reborn in Konoha as the Anbu Torturer

Aoba needed to understand Minato Namikaze's intentions. This was crucial because without knowing why Minato had come, he couldn't figure out his purpose.

Aoba first had to confirm that Minato didn't know about their connection, or more precisely, the relationship between him and Minato's ascent to Hokage. On the surface, they were good friends, and it was best to keep it that way without adding any complications.

If Minato were to discover the behind-the-scenes actions Aoba took to help him become Hokage, Aoba couldn't predict how Minato would react. Minato had a pure desire for the Hokage position and wouldn't want it tainted by external manipulation. He cherished the idea of earning it through his efforts.

Aoba understood Minato's dedication and admiration for the Hokage position. He knew Minato wanted to achieve it through his strength, without anyone else's influence. This wasn't about Minato being picky but about his deep-rooted aspirations.

If things progressed naturally, Minato would never have known about the behind-the-scenes maneuvering. It was clear to anyone who sensed that Orochimaru and Danzo's actions had an invisible hand guiding them. But with both now unreachable, tracing the mastermind was nearly impossible.

Aoba was okay with being discovered. He believed his plans were flawless. He used the Paper Clone Jutsu to simulate identities for Orochimaru and Danzo. Once those clones were disposed of, no one could trace anything back to him.

Yet Minato's unexpected visit, especially at such a critical time, made Aoba uneasy. He couldn't fathom Minato's true purpose, and he felt apprehensive.

For a moment, Aoba's mind was filled with anxiety. He desperately wanted to understand Minato's intentions to ease his mind, but he knew he had to stay calm. Whether Minato was here out of suspicion or simply on a whim, Aoba couldn't reveal any signs of guilt.

"Looks like you need a publisher!" Minato said with a warm smile, casually stating the obvious.

From Aoba's words, he could tell that the lack of a publisher was the obstacle preventing these excellent books from being published. Aoba had implied that finding a publisher was a long and uncertain journey.

If no publisher could be found, these books would remain unpublished indefinitely, which was frustrating now that he knew they existed. This desire to share them with Kushina and discuss them together fueled his urgency.

"I think Konoha should have its own publishing house," Minato said seriously, indicating he was contemplating the idea genuinely.

Minato could see that establishing a publishing house would greatly benefit Aoba, who could then focus on writing without external constraints. Aoba's works, along with those of others like Jiraiya, would justify the existence of a Konoha publishing house.

"Really?" Aoba feigned surprise, though he knew this was a minor matter for Minato. He still needed to express appropriate excitement to solidify Minato's commitment.

"Of course," Minato nodded, explaining, "Konoha has lacked a significant author presence. With you and Jiraiya-sensei here, a Konoha publishing house makes perfect sense."

"That would be wonderful," Aoba smiled, leading Minato further into the idea. Despite his reluctance to reveal his authorship initially, Minato's knowledge of it now provided an opportunity to divert Minato's attention.

Minato's agreement would enable Aoba to live a peaceful life focused on writing, without external interference. His works could be published without delay, fulfilling his ideal lifestyle.

"Let's call it Konoha Publishing House," Minato said decisively. "It's a fitting name."

Aoba saw the benefits of this name, envisioning his works spreading throughout the ninja world under this label. He wanted to ensure Minato's attention stayed focused on the publishing house, diverting any suspicion away from other matters.

"If my works could be published by Konoha Publishing House, that would be perfect. No more dealing with other publishers' whims. But..." Aoba trailed off, shifting his gaze to the manuscripts on his desk, feigning contemplation.

Minato noticed this and thought Aoba was pondering the feasibility of the publishing house, not realizing he was already envisioning its establishment.

"Don't worry about approvals. I can handle that. We can have the publishing house up and running in less than a month," Minato reassured, wanting to fulfill this for Aoba, whom he considered a close friend.

"Actually, I came here to tell you something," Minato continued, his tone becoming more serious. This moment felt crucial to Aoba, as he braced for Minato's true purpose.

"I just returned from the Hokage's office," Minato began, keeping his tone calm to avoid intimidating Aoba. He wanted this to feel like a casual conversation between friends.

"I've been officially notified that I will be the Fourth Hokage of Konoha. The inauguration will be in two weeks," Minato revealed, watching Aoba's reaction closely.

Aoba felt immense relief, realizing Minato's visit was to share his joy, not to probe suspicions. He genuinely smiled, feeling his efforts had not been in vain. Minato truly valued their friendship and wanted to share this pivotal moment with him.

"Congratulations, Minato!" Aoba said, placing his hands on Minato's shoulders with genuine joy.

"Thank you," Minato replied, his eyes shining with gratitude. He was glad to share this with Aoba, a friend who understood his dreams and aspirations.

"Since you're the Hokage now, I'll leave the publishing house issue to you," Aoba said with a smile, feeling at ease knowing Minato's true intentions.

"Consider it done!" Minato responded confidently. Helping Aoba was a priority, as their friendship meant a lot to him.

"We'll call it Konoha Publishing House. It's a perfect name," Minato concluded, ready to support Aoba's creative endeavors.