A New Connection in the Mall

Kuro, a demon disguising herself as a human worker at a mall pretzel kiosk, is confronted by Baki Hanma. Baki, who has known her secret for weeks, chooses not to expose her. His calm demeanor and unexpected generosity—tipping twenty dollars and leaving his home address for support—begin to dismantle Kuro's defensive, lonely world.

Baki continues to earn Kuro's trust by offering her a legitimate job as a construction assistant, providing a business card, and even offering his credit card for dinner. These actions leave Kuro overwhelmed, as she has never had someone invest in her future or provide legitimate help without expecting something sinister in return.

Baki and Kuro meet after her shift to cook dinner at her apartment. Baki helps her successfully prepare gyudon for the first time, signaling a shift in their relationship from strangers to something more meaningful. During this intimate moment, Baki offers to help her acquire legal identification and asks her out on a date, which she shyly accepts.