Jane

Once a year, the Volturi elders threw an elegant masquerade celebration in honor of the Winter Solstice.

Its annual theme: European mythological figures. This was a symbol, to remind all vampirekind life was all about reveling in immortality's favors and principles. The visitors themselves, were encouraged to create their separate interpretation of their choice to show off.

But in truth this special tradition was reserved to a few selected covens—for those who were in the know with the Volturi. No followers in question invited. It certainly was not an event in which the Cullens could attend. I personally wouldn't approve of it even if Aro insisted on it. I just hoped they realized how heartbreakingly fortunate they were three years ago, given that Aro chose to allow their grimy little half breed to live and flourish... At least for the time being, I liked to think.

The decorating in our formal ballroom was proficient and finalized down to the last shimmering trinket. White and royal gold candles were aflame, standing on the higher shelves and nooks within the surrounding walls. Matching silken drapes were woven through the stair columns and pinned above archways. Poinsettia garlands hung from door handles. Plus, tall crystalline cascade fountains flowing with freshly-gathered blood could be located at each main entrance of the room.

And there was already a decent-sized collection of vampires, tastefully clothed in their costumes, proudly moving, smoothly conversing amongst one another below.

I finally moved from my spot on the upper level to descend the nearest staircase. My fingertips casually brushed across the polished marble along the way down. I then felt my lips curl in a contented smirk while I noticed several heads turned in my direction. Indeed, this prooved I looked as divine as I felt in these pale toga robes, completed by the shimmering tiara with a crescent moon on its front peak. The accessories I was currently wearing definitely helped my grand entrance to have greater of an impact on our guests.

Amazingly to my interest, Aro was one of them. And when he floated forward to greet me baring a delightful grin, I took this as my cue to pause after I dismounted the last step. I quickly recognized the Celtic-like attire he was dressed too. His own uniform and red feathered eye mask he carried must had been influenced by Albiorix—the war god—king of the world, some said his name meant. All in all, the character suited Aro quite well.

Reaching me, his proud hands snaked out to collect my free hand still hanging low on my side. "And, who would you be representing tonight, my fierce darling?"

"Artemis, the moon Goddess of the Hunt." I clarified, even though I suspected he'd already seen me prearranging my chosen costume together in my chambers from earlier on in my thoughts.

"Oh, yes, yes, of course," he added, with closed eyes. "I see. The goddess who can bless others just as well as she can unleash her wrath upon them. Very fitting."

I waited there, anticipating something more to than his latest comment—a dance request, maybe an open offer to cling on his arm so he could parade me aound with the intentions of making the others envious, knowing they'd never have a splendid firearm like me.

I was still a trophy with purpose, was I not?

But, nothing else followed, for Aro had been called over to the far corner by Demetri, holding up high a full goblet of blood. "O, come drink with our brothers 're tonight, Aro!" he cheered, riling up the rest of the men.

As much as I valued my mentor, overtime I became mindful of how Aro had always been easily...sidetracked by certain new attractions.

And so, before he turned on his heel again leaving me solo, he gave my knuckles a peck and wished me a grand time.

I wanted to smash something. Though a second voice prevented me from doing so...

"If Albiorix wouldn't think to ask Artemis for her first dance, then perhaps she will accept the offer from me?"

Glancing sideways, I placed my thankful hand in my twin's, who appeared from the crowd moments later. "I'd be honored, Apollo."

Artemis and Apollo were twins in Greek Mythology, and she was also born before him, so I thought it was suitable for them.