Jethroe scrutinized Jacob's companions. Other than Valeria and Vladimir, Tyrone and the old hag were Fifth Level Body Fusion Realm cultivators, while Cole was a Seventh Level Body Fusion Realm cultivator. In terms of strength, his opponents were evidently more powerful than his group.
After sweeping his gaze across Cole and the others, Jethroe said, "Mister, we are members of the Todd family of the far north. I'm sure you've heard of us before. Can you tell me who you are?"
Jethroe could tell that Cole and his two companions weren't part of Jacob's group from their positioning. The moment Jethroe emerged with his men, Valeria and Vladimir had stood on Jacob's flanks to protect him from danger while Tyrone and the old hag had moved to shield Cole.
Consequently, Jethroe deduced that the two groups weren't really allies and might have just temporarily formed a party during their journey. One couldn't deny how keen Jethroe's observation was.