He recognizes that voice. It's a good voice. He's relieved to hear it. It beats another screechy robotic freakshow hands-down. He's going to have to start carrying a pistol again...

"Some kind of weird robot bear came out of nowhere and blinded me with a flash of light. I didn't stick around to see what else it had planned."

Thump. Thump.

"Yeah, we're talking about you, chuckles!" He calls back over his shoulder, thumping a fist against the door. Apparently its motor skills were on par with your average headcrab zombie; they couldn't get through doors either. Finally shaking out the spots on his eyes, he notices Shantae in the corner of the room, shuffling nervously, long hair swaying back and forth.

"...I can go back out there and scrap it, if it's bothering you."

Why was THAT suddenly his number one concern? He isn't sure, but it is. Why shouldn't it be? Look at her.

Just... look at her.