Ares is the Greek god of war, violence, and bloodlust. As god of war, he oversees and favors all wars and cruel warriors. He is the son of Zeus and Hera and his symbols include the spear, helmet, chariot of fire, and animals like serpents and dogs. One story tells of how Ares' son Drakon guarded a spring but was killed by Cadmus, angering Ares who used Drakon's teeth to create the first Spartans.