A ruined city street at dusk, overgrown with vines and debris. In the distance, a guild patrol is visible.

The battle begins. Raiki charges forward with his guild.

Raiki stands alone. The Alpha Zombie looms before him.

The Alpha Zombie attacks. Raiki is overwhelmed.

A moment of stillness. Raiki preparing for his final stand.

The smell reaches them. Something changes.

The source of the smell revealed. A warm glow appears in the darkness.

Alex approaches Raiki. The zombies keep their distance.

Raiki takes the bowl. The System notification appears.

Raiki eats. His strength returns. The zombies retreat.

After the battle. Raiki finds himself at The Last Morsel's counter.

Raiki watches Alex work. He's fascinated by the golden windows.

Alex notices Raiki is still there. Confusion.

Alex asks if Raiki needs anything. Raiki gives a deflecting answer.

Alex accepts this excuse. Returns to cooking. Raiki watches more.

Later. Raiki is still there. Alex serves him another bowl.

Alex's quiet observation. He notices something about Raiki.

Raiki accepts the first aid kit. A moment of connection.

Alex smiles back. Returns to cooking. The moment passes.

Raiki finally leaves. But not without a promise to return.

Alex's reaction. The chapter ending. Teasing the next encounter.