Oblivion (On Hold)

I

Classical Greece, circa 790 B.C.E

In the ancient Greek world, where the great gods and goddesses of the Greeks, aside from the god of the sea and the god of the underworld, all are said to live above the peak of Mount Olympus.

It's another bright day at Mount Olympus. The palace was busy preparing for the third princess, Aphrodite, twenty-second birthday. All gods and goddesses has arrived and are dressed accordingly. The reception is decorated with silky drapes hanging and enchanted flowers all around. The place screams well the image of Aphrodite.

"My fellow comrades, today I would like to thank everybody for attending my daughter's birthday celebration." Zeus, the god of all gods said while standing on the podium. "Let us all welcome my princess, Aphrodite!" After the announcement, the spotlight immediately moved to the grand staircase. Everybody in the room clapped and welcomed warmly Aphrodite.

"Happy birthday, sweetheart!" Hera, the goddess of goddesses chirped, and gave Aphrodite a warm hug. Zeus followed after his wife, and greeted his daughter. They looked very much like a real royal family in which everyone adores so much.

Aphrodite gave them a sweet smile, "Thank you, my mother and my father." Zeus nodded happily and looked at the guests. "Everyone enjoy yourselves and have a splendid night!"

Aphrodite walked through the crowds, and greeted every guests that she passed by. Finally after doing some rounds, she stopped at the food station. She wanted to secretly taste the cake but was interrupted by her sister, Athena, the goddess of wisdom. "Look at you, already a lady but still acting like a child." She chuckled and earn a frown from Aphrodite. "What are you talking about, my dear big sister?"

They were interrupted by their second sister, Artemis, goddess of hunting. "That Aphrodite were going to destroy the cake, am I right big sister?" Artemis and Athena both laughed. "Enough teasing me already! It is my party, remember that." Aphrodite huffed.

(Pic of Aphrodite's dress)

(Pic of Athena's dress)

(Pic of Artemis' dress)

Athena held Aphrodite's hand and pulled her towards the podium. "It's time to make your wish, little sister!" The three sisters stood before Zeus and Hera, and the attention went to them. Aphrodite smiled and nodded eagerly. "That's right! Father, it's time to give me your present!"

Zeus chuckled deeply and agreed. "Then tell me what you want, princess? As long as it is within my will, I'll give you anything."

"I want to experience the real world."

Aphrodite spilled out and the whole room went silent. Zeus frowned at her daughter's request. "Anything, but that." Her daughter got disappointed and whine. "You know I can take care of myself! I am your daughter after all, aren't I?"

None of the guests dare to make a sound, until the argument between the king and the princess is over. "Please father, please! Remember the training I underwent with Apollo? I have already proven to you and mother that I am capable of handling things."

Zeus looked at his wife, then his daughter. He gave a grin and nodded. "Alright then, you have convinced me, Aphrodite."

Aphrodite jumped in joy and hugged her father. The guests find it very entertaining watching the family argue. No one can argue with the third princess, and everybody knows that.

When Aphrodite pulled away from the hug, Zeus spoke again. "For one condition, if you agree, I will allow you to live in the real world for a given time." With no time hesitating, Aphrodite agreed immediately.

"Let Apollo join you."

Aphrodite eyes widened and jaw dropped. "No," she exclaimed. "Then, I'm sorry. Aside from that condition, there is no way I am allowing you to go on your own." Zeus said.

"But," Aphrodite stuttered while looking around. "what if Apollo doesn't agree?"

"He is one of the strongest gods, I trust he won't disappoint me." After Zeus has stated his words, Apollo walked to podium and greeted the king.

"Of course, my lord. I promise you that your daughter's life will always stand before my own." Apollo looked at Aphrodite and winked.

Hera laughed softly and patted her daughter's back. "Everything is settled then. Happy birthday again, my darling baby."

Aphrodite slowly nodded and kissed bother her parents' cheeks. "Thank you for agreeing. I love you both so much."

"You are too spoiled, my dear sister." Artemis shook her head and laughed. "I pity brother Apollo for going on a trip with you."

"Oh, shut it." Aphrodite slapped her sister playfully. She looked over Apollo and glared at him. She is the goddess of love, after all, falling in love is impossible.