A Man Like None Other

With Jared's current strength, it was indeed slightly difficult for him to annihilate Emerald Cauldron Sect, and even if he did, he wouldn't actually benefit in any way.

However, if he could somehow bring Emerald Cauldron Sect under his control and, more importantly, take over the sect's abundant resources, he could use those resources to break through Manifestor Level and attain the Body Fusion Realm. In doing so, he wouldn't have to keep hiding in the small mountain village.

By then, Jared could even put Emerald Cauldron Sect's influence to good use to locate Josephine, Feenix, and the others.

Furthermore, once he had sufficient power, he could even help Yuven unify the three kings and four archons. With that, Jared would be able to command almost the entire beast race, making it much easier to expand his influence in Ethereal Realm.

Sensing Jared's hesitation, Sigurd felt hopeful. He hurriedly added in excitement, “If you spare me, I'll swear loyalty to you and obey all your orders. I know you don't trust me. I can surrender a strand of my bodily spirit. If I show any disloyalty, you can kill me anytime.”

Sigurd continued to up the stakes, afraid he wouldn't be able to persuade Jared.

He was genuinely frightened and utterly terrified. Looking at Francois, whose life barely hung by a thread, Sigurd felt fear creeping into his heart.

“How do you know your master will accept me after I've killed Francois? Besides, there is some conflict between your master and me. He had to kneel before me previously.”

Jared recounted what had happened between him and Hosen.

Sigurd was utterly astounded to hear his master had previously groveled at Jared's feet.

Nevertheless, he swiftly replied, “My master is particularly greedy. He wanted us to bring you back alive because he must be coveting your magical items. You can temporarily hand over the magical items to him, and I will sing your praises. As for Francois' death, my master won't mind. When I become the leader of Emerald Cauldron Sect, those magical items will be returned to you.”

Sigurd was undoubtedly a quick thinker, ready to go to any lengths to save his own life.

Jared was indeed tempted after listening to Sigurd's suggestions. He hesitated for a few moments before suddenly reaching out and slapping Sigurd's head.

However, he wasn't trying to kill Sigurd. Instead, he extracted a strand of Sigurd's bodily spirit and placed it into his vast consciousness field.

From then on, if Sigurd ever disobeyed him, he could easily do away with Sigurd's bodily spirit.

Seeing Jared had taken a strand of his bodily spirit, Sigurd immediately sighed in relief. He knew Jared had decided to spare him.

As expected, after absorbing Sigurd's bodily spirit, Jared cut the ropes binding Sigurd with a wave of his hand and released the man.