[Honestly there's plenty of other things they should be focusing on right now. Buuuut. John did say they wouldn't be starting until tomorrow morning, and it's not like Shikamaru can't make a shadow clone to pack for him (even if he feels out of practice with the jutsu). Besides, he understands how important this event has to be to Masaomi. Moreso Linda. They got that thunderstone quite a while ago; they've struggled and worked hard, strengthening their partnership to the point they'd feel like they could use it today.
Knowing he'd regret if he missed it, given all that, Shikamaru came along. He found a rock to sit on and observe from, keeping quiet throughout the ceremony up until Linda tackles Masaomi's journal, mid-evolution.]
[Action]
Knowing he'd regret if he missed it, given all that, Shikamaru came along. He found a rock to sit on and observe from, keeping quiet throughout the ceremony up until Linda tackles Masaomi's journal, mid-evolution.]
Ha! Even she got tired of your bullshit.