Shikamaru stood at the sink, his hands deep in soapy water as he washed the dinner plates from that day. Even through the large house, the faint sound of children laughing could be heard, and the clatter of toys reassured him of their entertainment and relative safety. The sound of the front door opening made his head perk up, and he turned in time to see his wife step into view, disheveled and with her ninja uniform stained with dirt.

"Well, look who's finally home. What evil lord did you take down this time, huh?"