Dusk slowly draped itself over the streets of Konoha like a translucent veil.
Shikamaru Nara walked at the head of the group. Behind him, Kiba Inuzuka was murmuring something to his sister, and Hana Inuzuka occasionally nodded in response.
The other Hyuga Clan ninja and several ANBU members brought up the rear as the group passed through the village gates in the lingering glow of sunset.
"All right, let's split up here."
"The rest of you can head off. I'll report to Lord Hokage."
They could hardly all crowd into the Hokage's Office.
Besides, Naruto, Sai, and the others who had returned ahead of them must have already reported on the mission, so there was no need to bring everyone along.
"All right, we'll head off, then, Shikamaru."
"See you."
"Let's go, let's go."
"I'm exhausted. I need a good few days of rest."
"Let's hit the hot springs first and soak away the fatigue."
They said their goodbyes to Shikamaru and went their separate ways.
Shikamaru pursed his lips. He really wanted to rest too, but he had to finish his work first.
He looked up, then automatically turned toward the Hokage Building.
The sooner he got the report over with, the better.
Putting it off until tomorrow would only let the paperwork pile up. He knew the process all too well.
His own father was the Advisor to the Hokage, so Shikamaru had long since become familiar with the routine.
The Hokage Building's corridors were especially quiet just before nightfall. The lights on either side were already on, casting a warm yellow glow over the wooden wall panels.
Shikamaru stopped outside the office door, raised his hand, and knocked twice.
"Come in."
Naraku's voice came from inside.
Shikamaru pushed the door open and entered to find the Hokage