I respond to Louisa's toast. I take a slightly deeper sip than usual from my chalice and place it on the table.
I take a deep breath. I close my eyes, as if remembering a far off event.
"The warm air of the sea can renew one's soul they say. I find that it tends to preserve the wounds and with it's salt, stings you into an ever present awareness of what is missing in one's life."
Louisa pauses at Ares' comment. The silence causes Ares to open his eyes and turn his head to face her.
"I am sorry." he says. "Forgive me, It's my feeble attempt at philosphy."
Louisa smiles and sips again from her glass.
"So, what have you done all these years?" he asks with a chuckle.