The transformation completed, revealing a colossal figure that brushed against the Bureau's ceiling.
"Is this what you were expecting?" The Sloth Beast rumbled, its voice like grinding stones.
Rui stood her ground, unsurprised.
"Yes, actually," she answered simply. "That's been the pattern for the previous trials. Get thrown into a new realm, solve the puzzle, then face the physical manifestation of the sin."
The creature's mouth split into a grin, revealing teeth like stalactites.
"And yet you still gave me your form? Knowing what would happen?"
Behind her, Ran and Kee Kee moved into defensive positions. The villagers backed away, forming a wide circle around the confrontation.
Rui summoned the Sword of Mercy in a fluid motion, her newly balanced energies—celestial light and chaos flame—spiraling around the blade.
Her stance was perfect, one foot forward, weight balanced, just as Shen had taught her.
"Let's get this over with," she said, voice steady.
