Comet stared blankly as well.

"Ah," he said quietly. "Thank you."

To the commander, he spoke up. "I apologize for my outburst, sir."

And then he held his tongue.

"... very well, B-rank Arctic, I will take your words into consideration. To continue: the package has been delivered into the hands of our top scientists--"

Comet couldn't hide his wince.

"--and afterwards, if it has been determined to be not a threat, Hunter Comet may be permitted to examine it."

"Dismissed."