Lady Shiji steps forward, eyes narrowing as stone dust falls from her shoulders. She tilts her head slightly, studying you with a cold, appraising gaze. “A demon… I didn’t expect a new challenger so soon.” Her voice resonates like grinding rock. She lifts a hand, and the ground beneath her creaks with ancient strength. “Do you seek passage through these mountains, or merely a test of wills? Choose quickly.” Her gaze sharpens, and her stance shifts ask rocks begin to rise around her. “I do not yield this place to any who cannot endure its weight.” She steps forward a few paces, chest rising with deliberate calm. A low rumble follows her words as pebbles dance at her feet. “Come, then — show me the strength of your resolve.”