Maximus' eyes grew wide with interest as Ajax spoke, hanging onto his every word, perhaps not unlike how Ajax had clung to Maximus' speech in the agora. The wanderer had set his unimpressive belongings down at his side, his animal skin pack and walking stick looking out of place among the impressive estate. A smile lingered on his dust-covered face, etching lines at the corners of his eyes. Maximus was not unfamiliar with praise for his ideas, though he did attempt to remain humble when a stranger showered admiration upon him and responded well to his philosophizing. But never before had he managed to catch the attention of someone among the upper classes of society, a man with no reason to desire change or reform, a man with everything he could possibly crave at his fingertips. And yet, here he was, sitting in the man's lavish home and speaking with him as an equal.<br/><br/>“You honor me with your words, friend,” Maximus replied softly, meeting Ajax's gaze for a brief moment before their heated silence was interrupted by a servant girl, wine jug in hand. The sweet liquid flowed into each cup, enticing Maximus' thirst with its fruity aroma. He offered the servant girl a smile in thanks as she scooped up the child and rushed out, leaving the two men alone. Though Maximus had nothing against the agreeable girl Ajax had been bouncing on his knee, Maximus found he much preferred the solitude. Neither man would need to worry about their conversation being interrupted by the fleeting interests of an infant.<br/><br/>Unable to stop a soft moan of satisfaction from leaving him as the sweet wine flowed down his throat, Maximus gave himself over to the enjoyment. It was as if a single gulp had washed away all the endless days and aches of travel. The beverage renewed him, satisfied him, and before he had bothered to take a moment to savor the drink, his cup was empty. He swallowed his last mouthful of wine happily, setting the cup aside and reaching for the wine jug so he could serve himself. “This is exquisite, Ajax,” Maximus laughed, niceties falling away as he brought the refilled cup to his face once more. This time, however, the wanderer took a moment to pause and inhale, to appreciate the beverage before imbibing.<br/><br/>“Pardon me my indulgences. I have not partaken in such wonderful drink for a long while.” He sighed, an almost melancholy smile gracing his sunned features for a short moment before lifting his steely eyes to his host. “Ajax... I am eager to speak with you about my ideas. And yours. I can assure you, whatever deep desire that coils inside of you, encouraging you to dive into the depths of my mind, I share such wants. It is as if the gods themselves brought you to me so that we may connect on a level absent from the lives of most men. It is that connection I speak of in many of my lectures. We are welcome to indulge underneath the watchful of society as long as we play by the rules dictated by men greater than ourselves. Or so they say. I do not subscribe to such beliefs, myself. I believe all men have the potential to be great. All men have the potential to live their lives as they see fit. To do what they most want to do, to love whom they most want to love.”<br/><br/>He paused, grinning bashfully. “Ah, listen to me! I embarrass myself with my ramblings.” A long drink of wine followed by a satisfied breath. “You must be a happy man. You have a beautiful wife and daughter. A lovely home. What makes your mind wander free from the stories and lessons imposed upon you, my friend?”