Hong Yan walked ahead as if nothing was amiss, seemingly unaware of the clan members' attention, and Ji Dong naturally did not ask. The two of them continued forward amid a somewhat strange atmosphere.
The terrain gradually sloped upward, and the castle, built against the mountain, was about to begin its climb to the summit when a gate blocked their way.
At the gate, two members of the Fire Lotus Clan stood guard. When they saw Hong Yan, their expressions remained unchanged, but upon glancing at Ji Dong who was behind Hong Yan, their expressions couldn't help but shift. One of the women stepped forward, blocking their path.
"Hong Yan sister, who is this that you have brought?"
Hong Yan stopped, glanced at her clan member, nodded, and said, "This is my friend. He brings news of Lord Flame. I must see the King immediately."
Hearing this, the two gatekeeping clan members were shocked and quickly stepped aside, no longer daring to hinder them.