There was a first time for everything, Princess
Minako thought as the plane entered Gusanense airspace, and what an opportunity this was. She'd been abroad numerous times, of course, having undertaken her first diplomatic visit as far back as 2018 to Paechon, but this was her first time visiting Gusano; actually, it was the first time a great many people were visiting the country. She wasn't alone, to be sure, as the delegation also included
Sadazane Konishi as representative for the elected government and Doctor Ichirō Enomoto, Fusan's representative to the CETO, yet there was one person whose absence was rather conspicuous. It was understandable as to why he wasn't coming, and it hurt that she had to go now, but someone had to represent the country, and so, duty called.
The usual diplomatic fanfare aside, the trip into the Vale itself was rather ordinary. Like always, the motorcade made its way through the streets, each vehicle in the nearly twenty-long convoy travelling along the otherwise empty road, lined with onlookers to the many guests who would be arriving shortly. This level of security wasn't something she was
usually afforded; instead, as she was travelling in the company of the Prime Minister, she was able to ride in "Imperial One" rather than the standard Century Imperial line used by much of the Imperial Family since... forever, really.
"Imperial One passing checkpoint kitte." a voice said over the radio as the motorcade passed an intersection along their route. Home stretch now, and then work could begin. Eventually, they would arrive outside of the Central View Hotel, where they would be met by Dr. Enomoto and a few others before heading inside and up to the terrace, whereupon they would meet the ever-mysterious "Veiled One", Lady Aurora, their host for the evening.
"Veiled One, on the behalf of His Imperial Majesty, I wish to thank you personally for this most gracious invitation." Minako said as Sadazane remained silent; while he was there officially in order to represent the government, the truth was that his primary role was to supervise the Princess as it was the first diplomatic visit she was heading up. "Prime Minister Sadazane Konishi, Dr. Ichirō Enomoto." She said, briefly introducing the other prominent members of the entourage before motioning for one of her aides to hand her something. "This is an
inrō—a sort of portable medicine box—made by Takeuchi Gahō, one of the greatest lacquerware artists our nation has seen." She said, introducing the gift. It was small, but richly decorated with images of cranes standing beneath a gnarled pine tree, while its
netsuke—its toggle—was fashioned in the shape of an eagle. "As it brought health to its previous owner, it is our sincerest hope that it will do the same for you."