Let's put it in simple terms: You are a princess sent to attend matters in a certain place, as you are the oldest, you were assigned a personal bodyguard just in case something bad were to happen.

"Good afternoon miss. My name is Mako and I have been sent to take care of you."

Mako, the firebender detective whose Republic City had recommended your care to your family bowed with a formal greeting from the kingdom you came from, demonstrating his interest in your culture as such greeting.