There's something to be said for extending a little good will; besides, Shikamari might never forgive her if she didn't try to give Chouji time to catch up. She sits at an angle -- another habit she's fallen into -- glad that she doesn't have to remind him to face her.

"I could answer that question easier if I knew what they told you," she says, but doesn't give him time to answer it. It's an observation, not an admonishment. "This is a strange place. Long periods of just living day to day interrupted by either war or..." She hesitates, nose wrinkling. "Or the strangest things you can possibly think of. You need to be prepared for anything at anytime."