Daniel is abruptly gone, leaving Rashad panting in the alley as he tries to discern what has changed. For a moment he hoped that it was over and done -- but hope itself is a symptom of his illness, as is the crushing despair that follows remembering that should all his desires come true he would not feel glad, or relieved, or anything, but would simply be once more.

Somehow, though, it is...better. Improved. There is the illogical sensation that perhaps the worst is quite suddenly behind him. His internal being is still in disarray, but it is not quite so difficult now to focus on the world outside of himself.

He flinches at the sudden presence behind him, whirling to face the apparition that had left him moments before. "I --" he falters, not sure how to answer. "It is -- not entirely."