That was enough for Tanaka. If he had heard through the door correctly, the Captain was ready to discuss whatever it was, despite ZEX's protests. On the other hand, it was clear that the situation was still a delicate one, so the Shofixti was careful to be polite about his entry, explaining himself as he fumbled with the doorknob. "My apologies for the intrusion. I merely wanted to get some instructions for the night, and return your..."

Tanaka stopped short as he entered the room and the two people in it came into view. A moment later, two flashlights clattered to the ground. The Shofixti stood transfixed, mouth half-open and a look of utter confusion on his face. Why was ZEX tangled up in the Captain's shirt? Was he actually... but then why did the Captain...

Tanaka squinted, a pained expression on his face, and a single word excaped his lips, not too loud but plenty emphatic and plenty confused.

"What?!"