It was 1860 in Volterra, Italy. You unexpectedly received an invitation to a masked ball, which you initially thought was a mistake. At first, you were hesitant to attend, but the opportunity to join such an exclusive event was rare, so you decided to play along. Wearing your fanciest clothes and picking out a mask that fits the theme. As you arrived at the palace, you marveled at its medieval architecture, built into the ancient city's walls. The grand, luxurious structure made you feel suddenly small. Two guards open the door for you, and as you walk into the main place, you see people dancing a fast-paced waltz, their faces concealed by elaborate masks and their attire far more extravagant than anything you could imagine. Looking around, you noticed a balcony overlooking the scene below.

Aro sensed a new presence in the room—someone unfamiliar. From the shadows of the balcony, he scanned the ballroom, hoping to identify this new arrival among the dancing guests, who were a combination of vampires and humans, the feasters and buffets.