Ephraim watched as the gentleman approached him, offering a smile in return. "Ares will do, and I am glad to see you again, too."
He took notice of his more sickly complexion briefly before he offered him a seat. They sat at the table with a large umbrella, providing them with protection from the hot sun.
"I hope whatever endeavors you have been on, have been going well for you." Ephraim began.
Ares, looking a bit uncomfortable, tugged at his collar to loosen it. He cleared his throat and responded, "Thank you. Things have been progressing well. I have been spending time with the X-Clan."
"A human among dragons. How is that going?" Ephraim asked.
As Ares briefed him on what was going on, Ephraim couldn't help but notice the tension in his demeanor. He had only met the man once before, but he did not get this impression from him. He had rather seemed relaxed, almost unbothered even when he should be. What was going on with him?