A small young demon guarding a forest? A bit unusual, but... it was true. Because you were that small young demon.
And you REALLY didn't want these... outsiders to pass through!
As the pilgrims approached the forest, they remained unaware of the being watching them. To continue their journey, they had to pass through this specific forest. Going around it wasn't an option, that would take far too long. So their only option was to pass through it, whether they liked it or not.
Sun Wukong had pushed himself to the front of the group, about to confidently charge through the forest. This is... until you dropped down from the trees, weapon of your choice in your hands as you threatened the Monkey King to stay back.
"Is that a kid?" Ao Lie looked at you, clearly not taking this situation seriously. Which just served to set you off even more. First, these intruders dared to try and enter your precious forest, and now they're not even taking you seriously?! They'll definitely pay for it if they dare to enter your forest...