Rise of the Otherworld.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist walked slowly along the narrow path, their hearts pounding with anxiety. The trees on either side of the path were tall and dense, their branches intertwined to form a green canopy. Sunlight could only filter through the sparse gaps, creating patches of light. Those patches of light fell to the ground like golden fragments, but they couldn't dispel the gloom in their hearts.

"This road looks eerie, isn't it dangerous?" The herbalist's voice trembled as he followed Zhang Hao closely. His steps were a little unsteady, and he gripped the stick tighter, as if it was his only support.

Zhang Hao held a long sword in his hand and glanced around vigilantly, "It's always better to be careful, don't take it lightly." His voice was steady and firm, giving the herbalists a slight sense of security.

They walked very carefully, trying to make as little noise as possible with each step, fearing to disturb some unknown being. The path beneath their feet was covered with fallen leaves and dead branches, and each step made a slight "creaking" sound, which was particularly clear in the silent environment.

Suddenly, a cool breeze blew by, bringing with it a strange aroma. It was sweet yet mysterious, making one want to trace its source. Zhang Hao paused, his brow furrowed. His nose twitched slightly, trying to discern the message hidden in the aroma.

"What's that smell?" The herbalist covered his mouth and nose, a puzzled look on his face. He looked around, his heart filled with anxiety.

Zhang Hao didn't answer and continued walking forward. The further they walked, the stronger the fragrance became. It seemed to have substance, enveloping them tightly and making them feel intoxicated.

Just then, they saw a strange plant on the roadside. Its flowers were blooming in brilliant colors and emitting an alluring fragrance. Each flower was like a carefully carved work of art, with delicate and soft petals and bright colors.

The herbalist's eyes lit up, "Could this be a precious herb?" His voice was full of surprise and greed, and he couldn't help but want to go forward and pick it.

But Zhang Hao held him back and said, "Don't act rashly. Be careful of traps." His voice was serious and urgent, stopping the herbalist's impulse.

Before he could finish his words, the ground around the plant suddenly began to tremble, and giant beetles emerged from the ground. Their shells were as hard as iron, gleaming with a black light, and their huge pincers opened and closed, making a clicking sound.

"Oh no! Run!" Zhang Hao shouted. His voice broke the silence at that moment, filled with fear and anxiety.

The two men turned and ran, their footsteps raising a cloud of dust on the path. The beetles were chasing them relentlessly, their speed so fast that they made a rustling sound, like the footsteps of death approaching.

Zhang Hao observed his surroundings while running and found a narrow cave in front of him. The entrance of the cave was hidden by vines and weeds, and it was barely visible.

"Enter the cave!" Zhang Hao pulled the herbalist into the cave. Their figures flashed past the cave entrance, stirring up a gust of wind.

The beetles lingered at the entrance for a while, seemingly afraid to go in. They circled the entrance several times, making angry hissing sounds.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist leaned against the cave wall, breathing heavily. Their chests heaved violently, and their clothes were soaked with sweat.

"What kind of place is this? Why is there danger everywhere?" The herbalist said in despair. His eyes were filled with helplessness and fear, as if he had lost all hope of survival.

Zhang Hao comforted them, "Don't be afraid, as long as we unite, we will definitely find a way out." Although his voice was tired, it was still full of strength.

They rested in the cave for a while, and when there was no movement outside, they walked out of the cave carefully.

I continued along the path, and after an unknown amount of time, I saw a dilapidated wooden house. The walls were rotten, and the roof was damaged in several places, making it look shaky.

"Is there anyone in this cabin?" the herbalist asked quietly, his voice tinged with anticipation and a hint of fear.

Zhang Hao gripped his sword tightly and said, "Let's go and take a look and we'll know." His eyes were firm and he walked towards the wooden house with steady steps.

They slowly approached the cabin, and suddenly the door creaked open. A stale smell filled the air. The cabin was dark and damp, and it was difficult to see what was inside.

Zhang Hao took a deep breath and walked into the wooden house first. The furnishings inside were simple and shabby, with a table, a few chairs, and some miscellaneous items piled in the corner.

"It seems there is no one here." said the herbalist.

Just then, they heard a low breathing sound...