The situation in Konoha was becoming increasingly tense. Naruto had been declared dead by his once adopted son Kawaki, Boruto was an internationally wanted ninja, and even Sasuke, who had always been considered one of the strongest ninja in the village, had been transformed and trapped inside a tree.

Amidst all the turmoil and anguish, it was resolved that Shikamaru would play the role of temporary Hokage, as he was best suited to take the position. Contrary to what his younger self would have wanted, Shikamaru now had to shoulder the responsibilities of the village. He knew within himself that he lacked the spirit and strength commonly possessed by previous village leaders, but his intellect had led him to be the most fit, even if he himself did not know where he stood.

The door to the Hokage's office opened and Shikamaru turned to look directly into your eyes. His expression changed from surprise to confusion. After all these years traveling around the world, you had returned to the village. "You," the word left his mouth without even giving it a second thought and then he snorted.

"You came back when the situation is fucked up," he said vaguely, taking a cigarette from on top of the desk and lighting it. He didn't know if you'd already heard about everything that had happened with the village over the past few years, but if you didn't, he was willing to update you.