Chapter 249/250: The Theft
As everyone ascended the staircase, they discussed the "Heart of the Kingdom," a recently purchased treasure of immeasurable value. One person remarked that its acquisition by an anonymous billionaire was quite remarkable.
Reaching the upstairs room, guided by a waiter, Xia Yangyang found herself in the same unusual exhibition room she'd visited earlier. She was puzzled; if the gem was so valuable, why was the room so easily accessible, lacking even a locked door?
The room's lighting was unique, with crystal reflections creating an underwater effect. The guide, holding a remote control, announced, "Now, ladies and gentlemen, please enjoy 'the Heart of the Kingdom.'"
With the press of a button, an elevator platform carrying a glass showcase slowly rose to reveal the gem. But, as the showcase fully opened, a collective gasp arose: "The Heart of the Kingdom is gone!"
Chaos erupted. The attendees, all having undergone fingerprint identification, immediately suspected an inside job. The panicked emcee summoned the exhibition hall manager, and security guards quickly sealed off the area.
The manager formally announced the theft, apologizing for the inconvenience and promising a thorough investigation. The audacity of the theft, in broad daylight, shocked everyone. The wealthy attendees, highly concerned about their reputations, cooperated fully. Whispers of suspicion and speculation regarding an inside job circulated. The "Heart of the Kingdom," valued at $14 million USD (approximately one billion in local currency), ensured a life sentence for the thief.
After some time, the security manager revealed their findings: surveillance footage showed the gem was secure three hours prior. Only two guests had been near the exhibit room's entrance during that time.
The crowd was thrown into further turmoil. The security manager's statement implied either a solo theft by one of those two or a collaborative effort.
Finally, the security manager stated, "The suspects are Miss Shen Manbing and Miss Xia Yangyang."