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Chapter 173. [The American Consulate]

"I haven't really shared much about that part of the story with everyone."

This is the story from before I came to America.

The situation was so unique that it presented quite a few challenges.

>Summons from the consulate!?

>That's clearly VIP treatment

>Well, I guess that's what happens when a Nobel Peace Prize laureate goes abroad

"Oh, no! That's not it! It's not anything grand like that! When you're trying to get a visa, you have to go to the consulate, that's all!"

>Is that so? 

>I didn't know that

>I went to get a visa when I had a long business trip

"Wow, the consulate is something else. I don't think there's a place where you can feel overseas so intimately."

First, getting into the consulate is incredibly strict.

It's not about conditions; it's a physical thing.

"I had to go through baggage inspection, turn off and hand over all electronic devices, and even go through a metal detector and body check. In a way, I think it's quite a valuable experience."

Literally, that place's premises are like a foreign land. 

I thought the body check would be just a light pat-down, but they frisk you thoroughly.

It's a bit embarrassing.

Especially in my case when it's done by someone of the same sex.

"Just a body check is normal, right?"

"Don't compare your daily life to mine."

When I'm with Angu Ogu I get used to body checks, but this is different; she's a real VIP.

Actually, I've been through body checks at airports, but it's a different feeling when it happens in Japan.

"So, after submitting documents and recommendation letters and going through an interview at the consulate, you can get a visa issued. Just be careful, everyone. Like I said, it's 'America'."

"Huh? Was there anything else?"

"Currency in the building... The visa processing fee is paid in dollars, right? I forgot to bring them. If you have a card, you can manage, but it's one of those 'Oh, I see' moments."

"That's where Iroha comes in handy."

"I'd rather not hear that from Ogu, though."

>I see. Iroha-chan doesn't have a credit card because she's a minor, right?

>Going home to get it and then undergoing another strict check is a hassle.

>Can't you do currency exchange or something like that within the consulate?"

"Oh, sorry for the misunderstanding. What I meant earlier was I had a card, so I 'managed'. But it's not a credit card."

There are cards other than credit cards that allow dollar transactions. There are a few options. These are handy for individuals like me, a middle school student who frequently makes online orders.

Like a debit card. While there is a difference in that it deducts the amount directly from your account, the basic usage is similar to a credit card.

Or prepaid cards. There are differences such as being disposable or requiring a recharge, but the usage is largely the same. 

When you come to America, card payments are the main method. 

In fact, it's common to see places that accept cards only, not just 'cards accepted' as you might find in Japan.

"So that's the deal with getting a visa, with many things to be aware of."

In my case, there was an even bigger issue.

Specifically, with a student visa, you're not allowed to work in America. 

While there may be exceptions for on-campus jobs, I couldn't go that route, so I had to consult a lawyer and navigate the system.

"Other things to consider. Including insurance, vaccinations, and being able to answer questions during immigration inspection, right?"

>I see, sightseeing is the way to go, right? 

>Iroha-chan doesn't seem to need to worry about those things

>What did you think when you came to America (U.S.)

"Everything is so big. I just went to the supermarket here..."

"Iroha, let's get everything."

"Oh, right. Actually, we're planning to have a party today to celebrate our move-in together, everyone.

>What, a celebration for moving in together!?

>That's an important milestone

>In that case, I guess yesterday. No, the real anniversary should be spent together, just the two of us. That's unavoidable.

"Could you please not go off on your own like that? Anyway, that's why we thought about cooking and treating each other. Anything in particular? It seems Ogu is good at cooking, right?"

>Has Ogu ever done cooking streams before? 

>Her cooking skills are unknown... but I can imagine why, haha!

>Interpreting Ogu as a good cook might lead to different conclusions

"Haha, you guys can say that now, but just wait!"

"So, what's the plan? We don't want to spoil the surprise, but it's not fun if we cook together. August, which side do you want?"

"After eating Iroha's cooking, I might need something to cleanse my palate, right? So, I'll be on the second shift!"

"You're talking big, but who knows what will happen, right?"

"Haha! Iroha, you better do your best!"

>Now, it seems like a flag has been raised.

>It feels like the outcome has been decided before the battle even starts, haha

"Ogu is fine... I'm more curious about Iroha-chan's cooking

I rolled up my sleeves and stood up. "Shall we do this?".

***

Placing my hand on my waist, I stood alone in the kitchen. 

I already decided on the menu. 

Since it was my first time in this environment, I chose a menu with as little chance of failure as possible. 

And that was curry and rice!

"My mother sent me a bunch of stuff like curry roux, rice, and other things with a message like 'Keep this for later.'. But I never thought I'd get to use it so soon. I should thank her."

With gratitude towards my mother, I immediately started cooking. Considering time efficiency, it made sense to start by cooking the rice.

"Huh?"

I stumbled right away. 

I'm not that interested in meals in general, so I tend to overlook things. Even when I got stuck during that incident, I had American meals every day, but I didn't have any particular complaints.

That's why I hadn't noticed until now. 

Things I took for granted in Japan are simply not there in America. Specifically...

"Oh no!? I don't have a rice cooker!?"

Huh? 

Could it be that I'm really going to have a head-to-head battle with Ogu?

No, no, no, I can't let that happen!