Disclaimer: Does not own Naruto.

The air was perspiring despite the almost light breeze. His outfit was stuck wetly to his skin. He did not trouble himself by swearing since it was a waste of breath.

"Shikamaru!" Sang Ino.

"Darn it. She caught up," he muttered under his breath. He folded his hands behind his neck and stopped.

"Shikamaru! Tsunade-sama wishes to see you!"

"Darn." Now what was he meant to do? Face the wrath of which scary woman? He briefly contemplated ignoring Temari's invite and quickly discarded that path. He was going to get it when Tsunade-sama demanded an explanation.