How he held himself really had nothing to do at all with his god heritage. Though Livia would probably doubt it. But no, it had been his mother, a plain, ordinary mortal woman, who taught him to hold himself with pride. Not because of who his father was, but because he could be anything he wanted and he should take a small measure of pride but know that just because he was part god didn't make him any better than anyone else.
Oh how young and foolish this girl was. He shook his head as she spoke of never feeling oppressed by Ares. "Really now? So you never once in your life wanted to do something different other than what he wanted you to do? And answer this too: Do you come running to his every beck and call and crave his affection and approval in all you do for him?" Hercules' stance on the gods was well known and part of that was bleeding through in what he was saying.
Oh this girl was so blinded if she thought herself Ares' chosen warrior. So, so blinded by ignorant devotion. "He'll only come here Livia if the Seal let's him. Ares is not all powerful. I once saw him on the brink of death at the hands of Dahak and I had to save his life." He shook his head some. It would be cold to show this child the fall of Rome. At least so soon in their first meeting. But Hercules had been curious about Rome so he had researched it. And he found it ironic at how so great an empire became too great and soon had to rely on barbarians to keep her safe. The very same barbarians they had so long oppressed.
No, for not he'd not mention Rome falling. He didn't move as she circled him. She was light on her feet he gauged, nimble, like Xena was. A similar, focused stare. "Speaking honestly? I think he saw an easily seducible child he could use to his own ends." He stared at her hard, his gaze intense. "As for what I see? I see the possibility of true greatness, not the twisted, perverted image Ares is using you for." He unfolded his arms and picked up his own water, taking a small sip. "Once he has what he wants from you, he'll cast you aside like all the other warlords. There's only ever been one he's truly wanted after all."