[X] Go deeper still, where light and reflection fades, where even the ice grows black, and call to the winter maiden of this region in her home. [+2 XP to Isolation]
FFS has had quite a few problems since it's creation. One major one was it's clashing message and themes. We just started fixing that, and self-sabotaging is doesn't really make sense.
Both Isolation and Expression aren't related to the art, but Isolation is the one that fits the best, and working on our our Sword while building our attack art just makes sense.
I'll say the fears of danger are overblown. If there was a chance of danger with the choice, I feel like there would be a roll. Don't forget that we also have Bao Qian with us. IIRC, he has a higher cultivation than us, and can build a fortress on demand, as we've seen already.
Same with the idea of treating the spirit with respect. Spirits are pretty alien to humans, especially one like this that hasn't been in touch with people in millenia. I don't think would count as disrespect.
In fact, this spirit reminds me somewhat of Zeqing, with the attractive exterior hiding a deep void underneath. I'd rather meet with the true face, the deeep void than the glittering outside face, if we're making a contract and giving Qian a tribulation. Remember, it's a winter spirit, and they all have a deep Want and End in them. LQ and Hanyi are outliers.