When they worked together, Richard Rau was wary and afraid of Zeke – after all, he got his eyebrow scar from him. He disapproved his commander's actions, condemning him for his indifference to civilians. Zeke constantly monitored the mental state of his subordinate, helping him when needed. Perhaps the cougar was the only reason Richard remained relatively sane. They couldn't be called friends, because helping each other was a necessity, but there was a semblance of trust in their relationship. Everything changed after Richard deserted. Lynx didn't want to remember his military service anymore, and Zeke was gradually losing his authority due to the blunder with Rau. In the end, Ezekiel hated Richard for the fact that his career was irrevocably ruined because of his escape.