"Hmph~ As expected—it's nothing but a shell. Still, since it's a rare, usable vessel, I'll need to keep this body functioning for now."
Hinata narrowed her eyes slightly as she gazed at the unconscious, pale-faced girl with black hair lying on the bed. As the Soul Transfer Technique described, once she absorbed the soul from the host body, she inherited part of the girl's memories. But these offered little practical value.
Although prolonged separation from her original body was impossible, this ninjutsu experiment had still been a major success. Not only did she acquire a usable vessel, but her field operations also yielded precisely the results she sought.
"Good. Leave her here and take care of her. If anyone asks, say she's your younger sister—gravely ill and comatose. Understood?"
"Yes. I will say so."
With that matter settled, Hinata looked up, her tone brimming with quiet confidence.
"Now then, it's time we negotiate the ownership rights of our publication, hm~"
In the realm of industry, book publishing required dedicated channels and printing facilities. Previously, Hinata submitted her manuscripts to a contact at the Konoha Bookstore, who forwarded them to a publisher in the Land of Fire for mass production and distribution.
As a result, Hinata forfeited the majority of the profits, receiving only modest royalties. The bulk of the revenue went to the publishers.
This was largely due to her earlier lack of power and means to independently print and distribute her work. But now...
It was time to establish her own operation. Konoha was a self-sufficient village, with all the necessary infrastructure. Launching a publishing house here was perfectly feasible. The shinobi economy was still in a growth phase, and with adequate investment and a reliable guarantor, she could ensure success.
Funding was no longer an issue. Though Hinata had spent most of her savings, she was confident she wouldn't need to spend her own money this time.
"Mr. Fujimura, I know it's short notice, but I have an important matter to discuss with you."
Wearing a formulaic smile, Hinata addressed Sarutobi Asuma across the table. Since Asuma had previously posed as a photo shop owner, Hinata had specifically asked Kakashi to summon this "shopkeeper" once more.
"Not at all. In fact, thanks to you, business has improved considerably. So—how can I assist you this time?"
While still pretending, Asuma wasn't lying entirely. His regular access to new Fox's Tale volumes had improved his relationship with Kurenai, both in conversation and time spent together—deepening their bond significantly.
"I intend to establish an in-village publishing company to independently handle the Fox's Tale series, eliminating reliance on external publishers."
Hinata spoke frankly. The series was now well-known, and she possessed the influence and resources to cut ties with the bloodsucking middlemen.
And who better as a guarantor than Sarutobi Asuma—the Third Hokage's son and a respected member of the Sarutobi Clan?
Furthermore, this soon-to-be-married man might benefit from transitioning into a more secure line of work.
Smiling, Hinata made her proposal.
"So I hope Mr. Fujimura will join my publishing house—
Together, we'll create a company rooted in Konoha."
---
"She's starting her own publishing company?"
Even the usually composed Kurenai let out a surprised murmur.
"Yes. And it seems she wants me as both investor and guarantor."
Asuma's thoughts were clearly occupied. He was seated not in a public space but in Kurenai's private quarters.
"...And what do you think?"
Kurenai looked down, her eyes mirroring his conflict.
Being a ninja—while prestigious—was also perilous. Even the strongest shinobi could fall unexpectedly, their bodies never recovered.
Both Asuma and Kurenai had been born during wartime and became shinobi as children. Two decades had passed in the cycle of battle and blood. Now, at twenty-seven, they were adults with dreams and responsibilities.
Even the most loyal ninja yearned, at some point, for peace. For a quiet life, a stable home, and an end to daily fear.
Such chances were rare. Despite their savings, without a stable livelihood, peace remained elusive.
"Yes. It's a good opportunity. I still have savings, and I'm willing to invest. When the time comes, I think becoming a full-time developer wouldn't be so bad~"
Asuma scratched his head and offered Kurenai a reassuring smile. She stared at him for a long moment, then rose, retrieved a passbook, and placed it before him.
"Kurenai, what's this?"
Asuma asked softly.
"Count me in. If that day comes, I wouldn't mind cooking and doing laundry for the photo developer. That's not so bad either..."
She bit her lip, her blush revealing her deeper thoughts. Asuma, emboldened, reached out and gently took her hand.
"Yes... that would be a truly peaceful life."
---
The next morning—
"Huh?? Join the company? What does that mean?"
At the Uchiha estate, the production team had assembled again—this time to discuss Hinata's independence plan.
"I've decided to break away from the old publishers. They've drained us long enough. I'm establishing a publishing house in Konoha, and your shares will depend on your individual investments."
Not bothering to explain to Naruto, Hinata addressed Shikamaru and Shino: "So—what's your take?"
"Indeed. Only by holding our own equity can we maximize profit. We now have sufficient reputation and capital. This is a logical next step. I support it."
Adjusting his glasses, Shino—Hinata's most loyal supporter—agreed instantly.
"But I still don't get it... Investing and stuff~"
Still recovering from yesterday's events, Sakura peeked nervously at Hinata.
"Well~ it means if you invest now, you'll receive a share of future profits—passive income, essentially. The dream of earning money while doing nothing~"
Kakashi chimed in with a smile, raising his hand first: "Hi~ I'm in. Here's ten million ryo—my contribution."
It was a golden opportunity, and Kakashi didn't hesitate. Even shinobi needed money, and a wise one always prepared for both war and peace.
Had it been another project, he wouldn't have spent so easily. But having spent time undercover in this team, he knew its potential. As a jōnin with a discerning eye, he wouldn't miss out.
"Whoa~ You're serious? I mean... you never look serious. Where'd you get all that money?"
Ino was shocked. Even though she earned a six-figure salary from Hinata, she was still amazed to see such casual investment.
"Aiyaa~ I'm an adult, you know~ Hard-working adults save money—it's only natural, right?"