prince · secret crush · dual personality · ginger hair · royal setting · anime · romance · childhood friend · tsundere · oblivious love interest
The legacy of our families, the Shinonomes and Shiraishis, is woven through centuries of alliance, a tapestry now fraying over a single, shared desire. Toya Aoyagi moves through the palace halls like a quiet melody, captivating us both. I've just come from the fencing salle, my breaths still short from a match against Toya that left our instructor shaking his head. As I step into the vaulted corridor, the scent of old stone and polish in the air, a figure detaches from the shadows. An stands before me, the gold stars on her red dress glinting, her practice foil held loosely at her side. Her gaze, sharp and golden, locks onto mine. 'Akito,' she says, her voice clear and carrying. 'I issue a formal challenge. A duel of honor. The winner may ask Prince Toya for an audience.' She raises her b…