The glazed tiles of the Land of Water's Royal Palace shimmered under the setting sun.
Twelve vermillion-lacquered palace gates opened one after another, and the robes of a thousand guests fluttered like butterflies in the evening breeze.
"The auspicious hour has arrived, the wedding begins." The attendant's voice rang.
Shun, holding Sāra's hand, followed by five concubines, walked slowly up the white jade steps.
Sāra, leading the procession, wore a golden Phoenix crown with a red veil covering her face, and silver bells at her waist jingled with every step she took.
Behind her, Tsunade wore a luxurious silk wedding gown, her hair styled into a cloud bun, her full bosom drawing glances from the guests.
Mikoto walked beside Tsunade, dressed in a deep purple wedding dress that accentuated her elegant figure. A hint of melancholy in her eyes only added to her mature charm.
Next to catch the eye was Yukari, her fiery red hair burning like a flame, like a blooming rose, exuding endless youth and vitality.
Beside her, Chie, like a fairy in the snow, wore a blue and white wedding dress that made her skin appear even whiter than snow. Her demeanor was somewhat aloof, yet it seemed to contain endless tenderness.
The last was Ami, her smile as sweet as honey, with a friendly aura like a girl next door, making people want to approach her and share the little details of life.
...
At the wedding banquet, cups clinked as guests toasted each other, their gazes constantly drawn to the figures of the six brides.
"Is that Tsunade-sama? Is she really 38 years old?" A ninja who used to be from Kirigakure widened his eyes, almost dropping his wine cup.
Tsunade wore a magnificent white-gold gown, with delicate cherry blossom patterns embroidered on the hem. Her hair was styled into an elegant high bun, with a few strands falling gracefully beside her snow-white neck. Her figure was exquisitely curvaceous, with a slender waist and full bosom and hips. As she moved, her skirt flowed like water, every step exuding the charm of a mature woman.
"She doesn't look 38 at all. People would believe it if you said she was 26." A noblewoman exclaimed, instinctively touching her cheek, seemingly a bit jealous.
"I heard she is proficient in Medical Ninjutsu and can even slow down aging." Another ninja whispered, his eyes full of envy.
"As expected of one of the legendary Sannin, who wouldn't be captivated by such a woman?"
A Konoha ninja widened his eyes, whispering in disbelief, "Is that Mikoto? Isn't she Fugaku's wife?"
His companion quickly stopped him. "Shh! Keep your voice down. She's now the Daimyo's concubine, watch your words."
The man still couldn't help but exclaim, "After all, Fugaku died over a year ago. And she looks even more beautiful than back then."
An Uchiha snorted, "What's so strange about that? Mikoto-sama was the most beautiful woman in the clan back then."
At this moment, several Uchiha gathered together, whispering to each other, their expressions quite complex.
One of the elders lowered his voice and said, "Mikoto-sama actually remarried. I secretly liked her back then too."
Another elder whispered, "Actually, this is a good thing for the clan. The Daimyo marrying her means the Uchiha clan's bloodline will be more secure in the future."
But there were still Uchiha who held reservations. "But Fugaku-sama passed away less than a year ago."
Hearing this, another person couldn't help but sigh, lamenting, "Times have changed. Mikoto should also have new happiness. Moreover, she is marrying Shun-sama."
The discussions continued, but were drowned out by the sudden burst of fireworks.
Shun watched the approaching brides, his gaze pausing slightly as it swept over Mikoto. Her lowered eyelashes cast a faint shadow on her face, like a butterfly that might take flight at any moment.
The wedding banquet lasted late into the night, with the moon high in the sky.
As the guests drunkenly recited blessings, Shun quietly left the feast. He walked through the brightly lit corridor and arrived at Sāra's room.
Gently pushing open the door, Shun saw Sāra sitting by the window, the moonlight illuminating her graceful figure.
Hearing the door open, Sāra turned her head, and a hint of cunning flashed in her eyes.
She smiled and said, "Tonight, after we drink the ceremonial cup, you can go accompany the other sisters."
Shun walked to Sāra's side, embracing her tightly, feeling her warmth. Then, he lowered his head and kissed her lips.
"Are you really so willing to give me to other women?"
Sāra gently caressed Shun's cheek and softly replied, "We've been together for so long, one night won't make a difference. The three new sisters, you haven't favored yet, so leave tonight for them."
Shun felt a warmth surge in his heart upon hearing Sāra's words. He knew Sāra was doing this for his sake, hoping he would spread his affection evenly, so all the women would feel his love.
He held Sāra, kissing her deeply for a while, then released her and looked into her eyes, saying, "Thank you for your understanding and generosity, my Queen. I will do as you command."
Sāra smiled and nodded, then picked up the wine cup from the table and drank the ceremonial wine with Shun.
After three rounds of drinks, Shun got up and left the room to find the others.
He cautiously pushed open Tsunade's door, feeling a bit apprehensive.
Upon entering the room, he saw Tsunade sitting by the bed, looking at him with a gentle smile. They sat facing each other, with two cups of sake on the table. They picked up their cups and slowly brought them to each other's lips.
Tsunade took a small sip, then put down her cup and said, "Tonight, I'll let you off the hook. Go accompany the others."
Her voice was calm, as if this was just a perfectly ordinary decision.
Shun was somewhat surprised that Tsunade would say such a thing. Usually, she was very proactive in her demands.
He put down his cup and took Tsunade into his arms. "Tsunade, I love you."
Tsunade, however, seemed unappreciative of his embrace, pushing him away forcefully and chiding, "Stop being so mushy."
Shun was a little surprised. He said with a hint of teasing, "It seems you all conspired together."
A hint of tenderness showed in Tsunade's eyes. "Yes, we discussed it, so you can scram now."
Shun gave an awkward laugh, marrying six wives at once was indeed a bit out of line.
Next, he went to Yukari's room.
"Shun, you're here so quickly."
They looked at each other, a hint of tenderness in their eyes.
However, after they finished their ceremonial wine, just like with Tsunade, he was once again kicked out of the room.