Sebastian cooking.

David decided to slow down, giving everyone a chance to catch their breath.

"Thank you, Manager," Sebastian said gratefully once David eased the pace. He knew that if it weren't for him, David wouldn't have had to slow down.

Smoke was rising from Sebastian's body, dissipating into the sky.

"No problem, Sebastian, just take your time," David replied, scanning the area for a suitable spot to rest.

Mary walked up beside him, frowning as she studied his face. "Darling, are you a jinx?" she asked seriously.

Ruby, who had been standing quietly off to the side, suddenly perked up her ears at Mary's words.

David shot Mary a deadpan look, questioning the absurdity of her question with his eyes. Was she serious?

"Don't look at me like that," Mary continued, undeterred by his expression. "Everywhere you go, destruction follows. First the Blackthorn Empire, now the Rising Sun Empire. At this point, I'm worried about our next destination."