One of the earliest casualties by the hands of the Akatsuki was Asuma, the jounin sensei in charge of Team 10. Hidan, a scythe-wielding member, was able to take out Asuma during an unexpected battle. As his final moments arrived, what did Asuma tell Shikamaru?
Asuma tells Shikamaru to protect the “King,” later explained to be the unborn next-generation that will protect the Leaf Village. Sensei Asuma also reveals that Kurenai is pregnant with his child, and that Shikamaru needs to look after and ensure its safety.
These are the last words that Shikamaru is able to share with his sensei.
Asuma’s Final Words to Team 10
He spoke to Ino first.
“You may be headstrong, but you’re also a considerate caretaker,” Asuma told her. “Choji and Shikamaru… They’re awkward… Clumsy… You watch over them.” And… don’t you ever lose… to Sakura… in either Ninjutsu… or in love.”
He turned to Choji next.
“Choji… You’re… a thoughtful, loyal friend… and a kind soul,” he said. “In time, you’ll become a stronger shinobi than everyone else… So be more confident in yourself. Also… you might want to drop a few pounds.”
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Besides his instruction to protect the next-generation of the village, Asuma spoke some final words to Shikamaru out loud for all of Team 10 to hear.
What Asuma tells Shikamaru
“And finally, Shikamaru,” Asuma began. “You’re razor sharp with the instincts of a great shinobi. Truly worthy of becoming Hokage, though you’d probably try to avoid it… since you hate being bothered like that. All those Shogi games, and not once could I beat you. Which reminds me… remember our conversation about the King?”
Asuma’s label of the “King” represented the unborn children who would eventually take over and protect the Leaf. Asuma did know Kurenai was pregnant, referring to the unborn child in Kurenai’s womb as his “King.” What did Asuma tell Shikamaru? He said to protect and guide Asuma’s child as his dying wish.
Asuma introduced Shogi to Shikamaru as a means to stimulate his brain. The young ninja had plenty of mental aptitude, but didn’t feel like expressing it in constructive ways. He spoke to Shikamaru in terms from the game, a personal reference between the two.