About an hour had passed, and every member atop the Floating Fortress had been thoroughly inspected, with results as expected—everyone had a clear and traceable background. Not a single person was suspected of being a spy.
At that moment, the three individuals who had previously searched the interior of the fortress also returned one after another to report back, all stating that no one was in hiding.
It was only then that the Ghost Chi Elder managed to show a trace of an ugly smile, addressing Xu Gong, "I apologize for the oversight earlier, as my official duties had kept me preoccupied. I hope Junior Brother Xu will not take offense."
"Brother Xiao exaggerates the matter, with your dedication to duty and assiduous efforts, I am very much in admiration. Now that the official matters are concluded, why not follow me to the hall? It would be my pleasure to host a banquet in your honor,"
