The Triad director confidently walked up the short wooden stairs, his polished leather shoes clicking loudly. He was just about to step onto the pristine tatami mats inside when—
"Hold it right there," Kira's sharp voice cracked through the room like a whip. Her tone was completely calm, yet laced with such crushing, undeniable authority that Chris froze instantly, his foot hovering awkwardly in mid-air.
Kira glanced downward. His shoes.
He followed her gaze. A brief realization crossed his face. "Oh."
"Take them off." Kira commanded sternly.
"Of course," He gave a nervous laugh, quickly slipping his shoes off and leaving them at the threshold. "My apologies, Lady Kira."
Kira nodded. "You may come in," she said softly.
He entered and bowed respectfully to her. "Elder Kira."
Kira gave him a small nod. "Hello, Chris," she said. "I see you remain incapable of remembering where your shoes belong."
