Maecenas was intrigued by the ease with which she returned the gesture, either she was not easily confused or he'd unintentionally struck upon something that was still commonplace, though it was intriguing that it now seemed to have extended to women as well. The latter seemed more likely to him, after all, she was the one who'd stuck out her hand first.

"Grow up here?" he snorted, glancing around the place "Certainly not. I've only been here for a day or two." he waved a hand dismissively and reached for his drink. Imagine having grown up in such a dull and plebeian place, the thought almost makes him shudder. It was nothing compared to the glory of Rome, despite the enhanced technology.

"I hail from Rome." he added, recognising that she was attempting small talk and wishing to offer something of his own. Besides, he was proud of his heritage, despite them trying to tell him it wasn't really real. "And yourself?" he couldn't imagine anybody as charming and pretty as her growing up here either.