A Fateful Encounter { AU: Part 1 } || Serena & Jun
A time of celebration, where one fancied themselves up to go around to the local shrines and ask for the god's blessing for a prosperous new year. Like every other year before that, Serena found her spirits high as she readied for the long night ahead.
Her mother had taken the liberty of setting out her Kimono for her, taking it upon herself to make her already beautiful daughter shine radiantly among those visiting the shrine that evening. The kimono itself was simple -- a white base with pink floral designs, and a yellow obi to tie the outfit together; but donned on Serena, it looked like a masterwork of art.
She had decided to twirl up her hair into an intricate, fancy bun of sorts -- the blonde locks held together by a large, pink, flower ornament. A light coating of makeup was smoothed across her face to accent her natural assets; and by the time eleven rolled around she was all prepped and ready to head to the shrine.
"Make sure to be safe tonight. You have your offering and extra money in your purse, right?"
"Of course, Mama." She smiled at her mother before turning to leave, certain she had everything she needed. After all, she had double checked -- and then triple checked beforehand!
Usually she went to the shrine with a group of friends, but unfortunately they had been unable to make it this year. It didn't particularly bother Serena to be going alone, thought she couldn't deny the lonely twinge in her chest as she rounded on the staircase leading up towards the shrine.
The aroma of fried food, sweets, and anything else being cooked assaulted her senses in the most pleasant way -- reminding her that she had only eaten little that day in an attempt to save room for the vendors. Gaming stalls had been set up along side the food vendors, drawing in customers with cute prizes and timely entertainment.
"I'll visit the shrine first before I enjoy myself."
Sparing a longing glace at the Choco Bananas, she turned and headed towards the shrine.
Tonight was sure to be a good one!