Kae's eyes snapped to the door, his arousal still evident as he tried to process the sudden intrusion. Commander Aethera and Teacher Vynessa froze, their flushed faces a mix of shock and irritation.
Anna stood in the doorway, stunned, her wide eyes fixed on the naked scene before her. The bowl of water she'd been carrying slipped from her hands and shattered on the floor, spilling across the stones. She made a quick turn to leave, but it was too late.
"Stop right there!" Commander Aethera barked, her voice ringing with anger as she hastily pulled her gown over her shoulders and walked up to Anna at the door. "Don't you have any manners, barging into your superior's room without knocking?"
"I... I'm so sorry, Commander!" Anna stammered, her voice trembling.
Tears had already begun to pool in her eyes, and she fought hard to keep them from spilling. She gave a shaky bow, hoping to avoid any further attention, before attempting once again to retreat.
