The Boy Who Was Doted On

Antinous was a Greek-born noble boy, born in Asia Minor on November 26, 111 AD. At the age of twelve, he caught the eye of Emperor Hadrian and from then on accompanied him on his travels.

For years, they journeyed together, inseparable, from Asia Minor to Athens, then to Syria, Palestine, and Egypt. They learned as they traveled, and found pleasure in learning.

Historical records say that in 130 AD, Antinous drowned in the Nile. Grief-stricken, Emperor Hadrian deified him, founded the city of Antinoopolis, and ordered thousands of statues of him made and placed throughout the empire.

Thousands of years have passed, yet their love is still remembered and celebrated by posterity. And still, the exact location of Antinous's burial remains a mystery.

I cannot help but wonder:

Did Antinous really drown in the Nile?

Was it an accident? Suicide? Or murder?

Where is his body?

Now I know the answer: until Emperor Hadrian died, Antinous was still alive inside a beautiful corpse.

[Reader's Guide]

1. Roman emperor x Greek boy favorite, serious drama.

2. The age gap is about 34 years. Read with caution if that bothers you.

3. The author isn't great at history and has made some things up. Apologies for any out-of-character moments.

Theme: Glory, captivity, and love.