After briefly explaining the reason, Thunderous Red Apricot did not leave at once. Instead, she released her Divine Sense and began scanning Xiji's people.
"Why? Have you started suspecting me?"
Xiji's expression darkened immediately.
There was not even a hint of embarrassment on Thunderous Red Apricot's face as she calmly said, "It's simply my duty. That warning letter was discovered at Qinming Palace, almost at the same time you arrived at Nether Heaven. No matter how powerful that so-called Thief Commander is, he couldn't possibly be hiding among your people."
"Hmph."
Xiji snorted lightly. But Thunderous Red Apricot had been this way since childhood—impervious to flattery or threats. The fact that she had offered such an explanation was already showing her respect.
"The thief naturally isn't among my people." Xiji waved her sleeve. "I just didn't expect something so absurd to happen. How are you running Nether Heaven? You actually let a petty human thief slip in without noticing!"
"First, you need to understand that we're also members of the human race." Thunderous Red Apricot's face remained expressionless. "As for Chu Ge, he's no petty thief. If he dares call himself number one beneath heaven, he must have some ability. Besides, quite a few guests have come and gone these past few days."
Xiji said nothing.
Out of respect for the guests from the major powers, Nether Heaven naturally could not carefully inspect every person they brought along. The possibility that the thief had mixed in among the guests was extremely high.
"I only brought a few maids and attendants." Xiji could not help frowning.
Thunderous Red Apricot raised her brow. "This is Nether Heaven's affair. There's no need for the Netherworld Soldiers. Besides, Mother's birthday is approaching. It wouldn't do to let those souls wander around here."
Xiji's gaze