Title: The Timeless Question
Character/POV: Shikamaru, in first person.
Notes: Very different from what I've been writing lately. 'Tis a welcome change. Or maybe just an odd one.
Spoiler Warnings: None. Unless you didn't know that Shikamaru is smart. I'm sure that learning that fact will change your life forever. Pardon my sarcasm? ^^;;
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You can't just answer without thinking. Even when the answer is obvious, it always requires more consideration. Don't take anything at face value.
That's just not the way the game is played. Drag it on as long as you can before giving the other person an answer. The whole point of it is to think. Evaluate every possible word before you say it.
A carefully thought-out sentence holds more power than an entire speech thrown together on the spot, no matter how charismatic the speaker.
People always get fidgety when you take too long to answer a question. Too restless to handle the wait. Even with my eyes closed in that signature position that I seem to be known for, I can sense it.
So, finally, I open my eyes, ready to answer.
"Why the hell are you taking so long to answer me?!" Naruto demands. "Don't you pay any attention?!"
"Calm down," I tell him. "Or I won't give you an answer."
He grumbles a bit in reply, but shuts his mouth. He's sending me icy daggers, pouting a bit, and I decide that it's best not to push his impatience to its limit.
"Briefs," I reply.