His Favourite Muse ⚜ Ch. 1

His Imperial Highness Prince Lee Jeong-wu of The Korean Empire

Arts Academy, year two - 16

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Prince Jeong-wu was happy to be back. The beautiful Arts school rose majestically over the Andorran lake, the sun gleaming on the light stone as he drove up.

As he got out of the car, someone called out to him. "There you are!"

He turned to see his best friend approaching. "Themba! I tried to find you during orientation."

The South African raised a brow. "Did you? Or was there another face you were searching for?"

Jeong-wu made a face and half heartedly punched his shoulder. His friend laughed, and together they walked up the grand entry. The regal arches welcomed them in golds and pale blue.

The atrium was crowded with students. Older royals tried to hurry the first years along, shooing them up the staircases that led to the dorms. The two friends followed, going to the boys side common area to look for their dorm assignments.

"140," Jeong-wu said, finding his name.

"193." Themba shrugged. "Those aren't too far apart."

Spotting his bags being taken down the hall, the prince put a hand on his friend's shoulder. "I'm going to go start unpacking. I'll catch you at dinner." He went down the familiar hall, turning in at room 140.

It looked exactly like the others, but this year he at least had a view of the forest rather than the castle rooftops. Going to his things, he first pulled out a small, well-worn book. He opened it for a moment, looking at the sketchbook filled with Japanese flowers and predominantly one face.

Perhaps he'd have the courage to speak more than a few words to him this year. After waiting all summer to see him again, he hoped his bravery might win out over his fear.

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The first day was going to be a blur of classes, and he tried to focus. Sitting in his first class, he forced himself to stop looking at the door. For all he knew, his prince wasn't even attending the Royal Academies this year. He pushed away the thought. His prince? No. His crush, that was all. He probably didn't even remember his name.

A few familiar faces walked in, including one of his roommates, someone he'd seen last year, a few dancers. There was still room in the seat beside him, and he tried to not hold on to hope.

And then, quite suddenly, there he was.

Prince Minato of Japan.

Joe going-wu tried not to choke. He looked even more gorgeous than he'd remembered.

And he was coming his way. His heart beat faster as he came ever closer. Minato sat down in the empty desk next to his, a space away. But he was right there!

Nervously, he glanced over and smiled. Minato briefly returned the gesture before his friend walked in. Waving her over, they sat together and started talking.

Jeong-wu hoped his blush wasn't too evident. He was a mess. But he was determined, this year he'd try to win his heart.