"Step back. I need to speak to the clan leader," Li Chen demanded, his voice a chilling monotone.
"Apologies, but no visitors are permitted to see the clan leader at this time," one of the guards replied.
"Stand aside. This matter concerns me alone," Li Chen retorted, his fist clenching in anticipation of violence, oblivious to the dire consequences.
However, before Li Chen could carry out his impetuous actions, a familiar voice intervened, "Allow him passage."
Li Chen turned to behold Liu Yan emerging from the manor.
The guards, recognizing her authority, parted ways, much to Li Chen's astonishment.
Although he harbored suspicions regarding Liu Yan's undisclosed relationship with his father, Li Cheng, he had never anticipated her wielding such power over the guards.
Nonetheless, Li Chen's thoughts were consumed by the pressing issue at hand.