Rise of the Otherworld.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist found a flat spot in the valley, sat down, and began to recuperate. A gentle breeze blew through the valley, bringing a touch of coolness that soothed their anxiety and fatigue. The surrounding trees were lush and green, and the occasional chirping of insects in the grass made this quiet corner even more tranquil.

"This place is so peaceful! I wish I could hide here for a while longer," the herbalist said with emotion, his face still pale from the fierce battle. He leaned against a tree, closed his eyes, and enjoyed this moment of peace.

Zhang Hao nodded slightly and looked into the distance: "I hope so, but we can't be careless. Who knows if those people will find this place." There was still a hint of vigilance in his eyes, and he unconsciously played with a leaf in his hand.

They ate some dry food and drank a few sips of clear stream water, gradually regaining their strength. Night fell, and the sky was dotted with stars. Zhang Hao lay on the grass, gazing at the brilliant starry sky, his mind racing. Those twinkling stars seemed like the hope in his heart, yet so distant and ethereal.

"We don't know what's going on outside right now. Hiding like this isn't a solution," Zhang Hao said softly. His voice was especially clear in the silent night, carrying a hint of helplessness and confusion.

The herbalist sighed and said, "Let's take it one step at a time. Let's heal my wound first." He turned over and found a more comfortable position.

Just then, a slight sound came from the grass.

Zhang Hao immediately became alert and gripped the sword beside him tightly: "Who?" His body tensed up instantly and he entered a combat state.

The herbalists also sat up nervously and looked around, their eyes searching the darkness, their heartbeats especially loud in the silence.

A little rabbit jumped out from the grass, and ran away quickly after seeing them.

The two smiled at each other and breathed a sigh of relief.

"It was a false alarm," the herbalist said with a smile. He wiped the sweat from his forehead and lay down again.

However, Zhang Hao did not sleep well that night. He kept dreaming about the previous battle scenes and the relentless pursuers. In his dreams, he kept running and fighting until he was exhausted.

The next morning, sunlight streamed into the valley. Zhang Hao woke early and began practicing his technique, attempting to improve his strength. His movements were fluid and powerful, each breath syncing with the rhythm of the technique.

The herbalist was gathering herbs by the stream to make more healing potions, carefully selecting each herb as if it were a precious treasure.

"It would be nice to live here forever," the herbalist said as he looked at the beautiful scenery, his eyes filled with longing for this peaceful place.

Zhang Hao shook his head: "But we still have unfinished business and can't hide here forever." His eyes were firm and his heart was full of determination for the future.

After a few days, their injuries were basically healed and they decided to leave the valley.

"No matter how many dangers lie ahead, we must face them," Zhang Hao said firmly. His eyes burned with fighting spirit, as if he was about to face a storm.

The herbalist nodded and followed Zhang Hao on an unknown journey. Their steps were firm and powerful, filled with hope and courage for the future.

Not long after they walked out of the valley, they heard a loud noise.

"Be careful!" Zhang Hao said cautiously. He stopped and listened attentively.

They saw a group of people walking towards them, led by a big bearded man, followed by a group of armed thugs.

"It's them! Don't let them run away!" The big man pointed at Zhang Hao and the herbalist and shouted.

Zhang Hao's face darkened: "It seems trouble is coming again."

The herbalist clenched the branch in his hand: "Let's fight!"

The two sides instantly fell into a tense standoff. The large man swung his broadsword and slashed at Zhang Hao. Zhang Hao dodged sideways and stabbed the large man in the chest with his backhand. The large man was startled and quickly retreated.

Seeing this, the minions rushed forward. Zhang Hao and the herbalist stood back to back, engaging in a fierce battle with the enemy. Their figures intertwined in the sunlight, their clothes soaked with sweat.

"Kill!" The shouts of killing echoed in the valley.

Zhang Hao's swordsmanship was fierce, and every strike carried a killing determination. The herbalist was not to be outdone, using branches to resist the enemy's attacks.

Just as they were gradually gaining the upper hand, suddenly, a cold arrow shot from a distance...