Into the Fire

Chapter One Hundred Five

Genma banged his spoon on the side of his glass in an attempt to gain everyone's attention. “I know the speech is normally given by the best man . . . but for this occasion we've decided to veer from tradition a little bit.”

“What speech?” Kakashi hissed at his new husband, “No one told me about any speech.”

“It's just supposed to be a toast by the best man.” Ibiki assured him, “I'm sure it won't be anything bad.”

“I have a confession to make,” Genma began, “I'm not supposed to be here tonight because I'm the one that thought these two getting married was a bad idea.”

“Oh no, this isn't bad.” the copy-nin groaned, “Wasn't the fiasco this morning enough?”

“Genma, maybe you should keep your sentiments to yourself.” Ibiki threatened, but the senbon-sucker ignored him and continued.

“Like I said, I wasn't supposed to be here . . . but I'm glad that I am. I am doubly glad because I am one of the reasons the wedding was delayed until this afternoon. Which brings me to the reason I'm standing here talking to you all right now. I need to publicly apologize to Hatake-san for my stupidity . . . first for not trusting him, especially after all he did for me . . .and most particularly for not thinking about the consequences of our stupid plan to get Ibiki drunk. We just wanted to see him loosen up and lose his inhibitions for once. I never intended to hurt you Kakashi, and I'm very sorry. I'm glad my friend has found someone he cares for so deeply and I hope you two have a long and happy life together.” The honey haired man paused for a moment, taking a deep breath before he went on, “I also want to apologize to our wise and generous Hokage, and thank him for loving me, even though I tend to act first and think afterward . . . and I hope, someday, he'll forgive me and take me back.”

“Sit down Gen.” Iruka declared with a smile, “You can grovel later.”

“Thank you Ru.” the senbon-sucker replied gratefully.

“My turn.” Jiraiya proclaimed as he rose unsteadily to address the crowd. “I owe everyone here an apology. It's my fault Ibiki didn't make it on time this morning. I orchestrated the little party gone awry . . . and almost ruined my nephew's life in the process. I'm glad you found it in your heart to forgive Ibiki brat, I truly enjoy having my head attached to my shoulders.”

“That can change old man.” the copy-nin growled, mortified at the scrutiny he was currently under, “Just sit down and shut up.”

“For My Toast I Have Composed A Ballad Celebrating The Tender Love My Eternal Rival And His New Husband Have Found In The Springtime Of Their Youth.” Gai boomed as he whipped a guitar out from under the table.

“Oh, no, no, no . . . you told me you took care of this.” Kakashi gritted out, turning to pin the interrogator with a murderous gaze, “Stop him.”

“Gai, really, I think we need to eat now.” Ibiki ventured as the first chord rang out.

“On A Shining Summer Day, In The Springtime Of Their Youth, Two Fair And Glorious Warriors, Accepted A Wonderful Truth.” the green beast sang, taking a deep breath in preparation for the next line.

The silver-haired jounin leapt from his seat, “Gai, I challenge you.” he declared frantically, hoping to shortcut any further mental overload.

“What Is Our Contest To Be Rival?” the taijutsu master immediately replied.

“Who can stay quiet the longest . . . starting now.” Kakashi replied thoughtfully, “Unless, of course, you're not up to the challenge.”

“I Will Best You At This Task Or Swim Up The Great Fall Naked In A Snowstorm.” Gai declared with a broad grin and a thumbs up.

“Great, now sit down and remember . . . quiet.” the copy-nin said softly as he sat back down and picked up his chopsticks.

“That was brilliant sweetheart.” Ibiki whispered, “Thank you so much.”

“I told you, distraction.” the jounin whispered back, “Works every time.”

After dinner everyone slowly made their way to the dance floor, where Kakashi was once again caught by surprise when Kurenai took the microphone and began to speak. “It's time for the new couple's first dance, everyone gather round.” she declared.

“I don't know how to dance.” Ibiki squeaked, “No one said anything about dancing.”

“You'll be fine.” the copy-nin soothed, “Just keep your eyes on me and forget about everything else.”

“Making their first appearance as a married couple,” the kunoichi continued, “it is my pleasure to present Hatake Ibiki and Hatake Kakashi.”

The ring of onlookers opened up and the couple passed through, the normally intimidating interrogator looking adorably uncertain until the copy-nin took him in his arms, whispering in a rapidly reddening ear, “Remember, just concentrate on me and follow my lead.”

The music started and Kakashi effortlessly steered them around the floor, whispering endearments in his dumbstruck husband's ear the entire time. When other couples began drifting out to join them he slowed to a gentle swaying motion, leaning his head against the scarred man's broad chest.

“Have I told you yet how gorgeous you look sweetheart?” the scarred man rumbled as he tightened his hold on the slender jounin, “I don't think I've ever seen anything more beautiful in my entire life.”

“I'm glad you like it.” the copy-nin replied seriously, “I was afraid it might be too feminine.”

“You are undoubtedly one hundred percent male 'kashi.” Ibiki assured him, “The kimono just makes you all the more handsome.”

“May I cut in?” Itachi's smooth tenor brought them back to the real world.

“Of course.” the interrogator rumbled, gratefully escaping to join Kisame on the sidelines and watch.

“Congratulations sempai. How does it feel to be married?” the last Uchiha asked curiously.

“It feels wonderful . . . like coming home.” Kakashi confided, “Nothing can come between us now.”

“I was surprised Morino-san took your name.” the Otokage continued, “I would have thought you'd do it the other way around.”

“He insisted.” the copy-nin replied with a shrug, “Apparently the council had some fears that the clans could die out if they permitted same sex marriages . . . although what difference the name makes, I don't know. It's not like I plan on having any children, the clan will die out regardless of whose name we use.”

“You never know sempai . . . you may change your mind.” Itachi suggested.

“We're both men.” the silver-haired nin retorted, “Last time I checked it took a woman's involvement to make babies.”

“You'd be amazed at what they can do these days sempai.” the dark-haired man responded idly, “You can have a child with someone you never even see . . . at least, not naked.” he concluded with a laugh.

“I take it this is something you've been considering.” Kakashi replied seriously, “It would be a shame to lose the sharingan forever.”

“I'm sure the council feels the same about the Hatake bloodline. I'm afraid, however, it would be pointless for me to try and revive my clan . . . who would train them to use their sharingan? I'm blind, I certainly cannot.” the last Uchiha retorted bitterly.

“I would be honored to train your child 'tachi.” the copy-nin declared, “Please don't let that stop you from experiencing the joy of a new life.”

“Enough, you two, let someone else dance with the groom.” Raidou's cheery voice broke in.

“Certainly, Namiashi-san. We will talk later, sempai.” the Otokage said with a bow.

“Indeed, we will.” the silver-haired man agreed as he was swept back onto the dance floor.

“So . . . I haven't had much chance to talk to you Kakashi,” Raidou began tentatively, “Is everything alright? I mean, well, we were just worried . . . the wedding seems awfully sudden . . . and then the delay this morning . . .”

“Everything's wonderful.” the copy-nin declared firmly, “I just married the man I love . . . what could possibly be wrong with that?”

“The fact that he stood you up this morning?” the scarred man asked wryly, “Seriously, you're always welcome to come back to Suna . . . I know you have bad memories from your time there, but there's no threat now.”

“I'm sure we'll come and visit.” Kakashi assured him, “But I have no intention of going anywhere without my husband ever again.”

“As long as it's what you want.” Raidou assented, “Just remember you have a lot of friends who care about what happens to you.”