Venus and Mars have just been lovers and are clearly in the domain of Venus. She is composed and in charge of the situation, while Mars is overtaken with sleep. The Goddess of Love has vanquished the God of War. The problem is, we need some of the assertive properties of Mars if we are to make our way in the world. A horoscope dominated by Venus can show someone with great skill in relationship, a love of harmony and beauty, and a gracious affectionate nature. But the same person may show great difficulty when it comes to developing a successful professional life.
Ares (Mars) was just one of the lovers Aphrodite (Venus) took after being forced to marry the lame craftsman Hephaistos (Vulcan). She is independent in that she gives herself, after seduction if necessary, to any whom she desires, not to any who wants or needs her. Venus represents that side of us that seeks relationship to provide a mirror in which to see a reflection of ourselves. We are missing something necessary, and we fall in love with someone who shows it to us simply by acting as a mirror. We then feel better about ourselves. For Venus, relationships are not ends in themselves, but paths to greater self-definition.
The other great relationship factor in the birth chart, the Moon, looks for something quite different. The Moon is more concerned with family values, maternal care and nourishment than self-definition and fulfilment. Where Venus and the Moon are in conflict in the chart, we may have the scenario where one lives with one's spouse and family (the Moon) while having a secret (or maybe not so secret) lover on the side (Venus). It feels like fulfilment is impossible without both, yet the situation may be accompanied by great anguish. Fortunately, the astrology may show a way of living a fulfilled life without putting at risk our cherished relationships.