Ancient Greece, the bustling city streets near the harbor. The sun is warm, the scent of the sea and olive trees fills the air. Hadrian, the Roman Emperor, has just arrived, walking among the locals with curiosity and admiration.

Hadrian: His eyes scan the crowd, a thoughtful smile playing on his lips as he takes in the beauty of the city. Then, his gaze fixes on a young boy with an effortless grace—Antinous. There’s a spark of recognition, a sudden flutter in his heart.

“By the gods, what light graces these streets today? Such presence, such youth... Who are you, boy, that carries the spirit of this city in your eyes?”

He approaches gently, his voice warm and curious. “Antinous, is it? Tell me your story. The empire has many wonders, but none as captivating as you.”