Leonardo’s backstory continues: Leonardo enjoys living a simple life with Nina in her cottage; time passes, and eventually, Nina falls ill. Leonardo is at a loss and finds himself wondering what has happened to his family (it has now been more than two years since he left Venice). Since his appearance has changed, and he now wears the clothes of a peasant, he believes he can return to Venice while remaining unrecognized. Leonardo begins making his way towards Venice; outside of the city, he falls asleep on the shore of a lake. Megalena Strozzi happens to be passing by and is struck by his beauty. When Leonardo awakens and sees Megalena, he is also attracted to her. Megalena invites Leonardo to stay at her villa, where the two quickly become lovers.

After some time, Megalena wants to return to Venice and bring Leonardo with her. Leonardo is hesitant: He admits his true identity, although he makes Megalena swear not to reveal it. Megalena explains to Leonardo that his father is dead and that his mother and sister are no longer living in Venice (no one knows at this point that