Shikamaru is happy with his decision but will need a woman's input to help him plan something suitable.

Shikamaru lies to Temari about his mission, not wanting to involve her in a dangerous matter.

However, Temari becomes upset that Shikamaru would not confide in her since she believed they had an extremely close relationship.

In a fit of hurt anger, she punches Shikamaru and runs off in tears, leaving a guilt-ridden Shikamaru.

After his arrest and the mission has ended, Shikamaru asks Temari on a date.

She repeats his catch phrase, "how troublesome" and accepts. The novels ends with the couple now married and the birth of their son.