Though her name translates to "snow white," Shirayuki is a bright, auburn-haired youth residing in Tanbarun who toils faithfully as an herbalist at her local apothecary where she carefully prepares remedies. Her existence shifts abruptly when the frivolous prince of Tanbarun, Prince Raji, spots her and attempts to coerce her into becoming his consort. Refusing to surrender her liberty, Shirayuki trims her lengthy auburn tresses and flees into the woods, where she is saved from Raji by Zen Wistalia, the second prince of a neighboring realm, along with his two attendants. Desiring to honor her gratitude toward the trio someday to protect them from danger, Shirayuki aims to pursue a position as the royal apothecary in Zen"s kingdom of Clarines.
Akagami no Shirayuki-hime chronicles Shirayuki"s voyage toward a fresh life within Clarines" palace, while Zen strives to earn the dignity of his princely rank. As steadfast bonds form and lethal foes emerge, Shirayuki and Zen gradually learn to aid one another as they tread their distinct journeys.