Perfumed air, heavy with the scent of roses and a thousand other exotic blossoms, hung in the atmosphere. Aphrodite, goddess of beauty, sat before a vanity overflowing with potions, powders, and tools that would make any mortal woman weep with envy.

"Is my makeup good, darling?" Aphrodite asked, holding up a small, handheld mirror. Her eyes, usually sparkling with amusement, held a hint of genuine worry. "I'm trying this new technique. It is supposed to emphasize my cheekbones. Do you think it looks better?" The shadow on her eyelids caught the light, emphasizing the perfect shape of her eyes. A delicate pink blush highlighted her cheekbones, the contouring a subtle shadow beneath. Her lips, already naturally a luscious rose, were subtly glossed.