The dozens of cultivators standing nearby stared at the rolling head in mute horror, then swung furious eyes toward Jared.

Several of them started forward, intent on revenge, but the same woman threw herself in their path, arms outstretched.

“No one moves!” shouted. “He brought this on himself. Our savior did nothing wrong!”

Jared’s cold gaze swept across the crowd. “I saved every one of your lives, I can reclaim them whenever I please. If you’re so eager to die, feel free to take back your own item pouches.”

His words struck harder than any sword stroke, every cultivator lowered his head and fell silent, none daring to lift a hand. They had witnessed his power firsthand and knew all too well what defiance would cost.

The woman forced a smile as tried to mollify him. “Sir, we’re grateful beyond words that you saved us. If someone among us failed to repay kindness and even dared lecture you on morality, deserved what got. May I ask your name, and would you allow us to follow you?”

She understood all too well that the handful of Worryfree Clan survivors could never rebuild their clan alone, without a patron, they would likely be hunted down one by one. Jared was the strongest, most reliable pillar could hope to cling to.