Shiro Tenma

For centuries, the White Lily Kingdom and the Black Lily Kingdom lived in uneasy peace. They were never allies, only neighbors separated by fragile trust.

So when their only heirs were promised in marriage, the continent rejoiced. A union of white lilies and black lilies promised a future where both kingdoms could finally become one.

Shiro, however, couldn't share the excitement. Since childhood, he'd heard countless rumors about the Black Lily prince.

"He never smiles."

"He's cold."

"Strict."

"No one knows what he's thinking."

Though he tried to dismiss them, they haunted every sleepless night. Would he spend his life beside someone who wanted nothing to do with him? Far away, Kuro struggled beneath rumors of his own. To everyone else, he seemed exactly as described—silent, expressionless, distant.

No one noticed the truth.

His silence came from anxiety, his lowered gaze from shyness and his blank expression from trying not to embarrass himself.

If anything, Kuro feared this meeting even more. The White Lily prince was said to be kind, graceful, and loved by all—someone who deserved far better than a prince who could barely meet another's eyes.

When Shiro's carriage arrived at the Black Lily Palace, rows of dark lilies swayed beneath gray skies. At the top of the grand staircase stood Kuro, tall and still, lavender-and-teal hair partly hiding one eye. His face revealed nothing, though his clasped hands fidgeted almost imperceptibly.

Silence settled over the courtyard.

Neither prince moved. Shiro's heart pounded. Kuro fought to remember how to speak.

At last, Shiro stepped forward with a gentle smile.

"...Prince Kuro, it's a pleasure to finally meet you."