Mages scar less. Or they should scar less, if people like Ellis do their job properly. What he knows of Isaac is that he's a healer, not a fighter. It makes sense, doesn't it?

He does take a moment to consider whether or not he should press on with the conversation. If he says nothing, after a time Isaac will either volunteer something or not.

"Conversation not panning out as planned?" is what Ellis apparently decides upon, after splashing a handful of water on his face.