Maximus found himself relieved that little Elpis did not seem fearful of his ragged looks. Curious, perhaps, maybe even intrigued if children so young could feel such a complex emotion. His worry that Ajax would deny him entry into his lovely home at witnessing his daughter's distress seemed to be unfounded, and Ajax quickly picked up on Maximus' little hint that wine was promised and thus should be delivered lest he be a bad host.<br/><br/>Ajax was quick to give instructions to his lovely wife, who once again gave Maximus a quick and uneasy look before returning into the large home. Maximus raised his eyebrows in mild excitement at the mention of hot coals. Weeks, perhaps even months had passed since Maximus had last indulged in a warm bath, typically refreshing himself and scrubbing his body in cold rivers he passed during his travels. Public bath houses were common among the cities he frequented, and typically quite affordable for the average citizen, but when forced to choose between spending his meager coin on food or bathing, Maximus found it really wasn't much of a choice at all.<br/><br/>As they began to climb the stairs, Ajax inquired as to Maximus' preferred foods, eliciting a hearty laugh from the older man. "Friend, you are too kind, truly. Beggars such as myself have no place cultivating preferences. I will consume whatever foods you gift me. To refuse would be ungrateful." This he did truly believe. Denying anything Ajax provided wouldn't sit well, even if Ajax didn't actually mind. "I am also not incredibly picky about wines, my friend. I would be honored if you simply shared with me your favorite. Or, perhaps, your second favorite, if you wish to keep the other all to yourself."<br/><br/>The lounging and dining area was beyond lovely. Maximus' eyes admired the comfortable-looking seats, the elegant woven rug, colorful tarps, and the warm candles, flickering and offering the two men a soft, intimate light. He waited patiently when Ajax disappeared to give more instructions to however many servants he had about the place, awkwardly sitting on the lounger, not getting too comfortable. Ajax was being remarkably welcoming and strangely trusting by allowing Maximus to exist in his home without keeping a watchful eye on him to ensure he did not abscond with any of the undoubtedly expensive items peppered throughout the estate.<br/><br/>"Ah, you've returned!" Maximus said happily, smiling as Ajax sat beside him, child still in his arms. "I was admiring your decorations," he explained, nodding toward one of the tarps hanging on the wall. "Your home is exquisite. I must reiterate I am honored to be your guest." Deep eyes tore away from the threaded artwork and settled on Ajax once again. The man's beauty was apparent and unparalleled. Maximus found himself wanting to look into Ajax's large brown eyes once more, to see what secrets the young man held hidden inside. He imagined Ajax must have been exceptionally popular as a youth, alluring to all older Athenian males. The day Ajax had grown into a man and been married off must have been a sad one for any potential lovers.<br/><br/>"I must confess, as grateful as I am, I am also somewhat confused, friend. You have allowed me into your home with no knowledge of who I am or where I come from. Not many would be so inviting to a man such as myself."