Rise of the Otherworld.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist were instantly terrified when they heard the deep breathing. Their nerves were once again tense. The air seemed to freeze at that moment, and every sound was amplified infinitely. The heavy breathing was like a call from hell, causing their hearts to beat rapidly.

"Who?" Zhang Hao shouted, gripping his sword even tighter. His voice echoed in the small space, carrying an irresistible majesty. However, the only response was the continued breathing, as if mocking their nervousness and anxiety.

The herbalist took a few steps back in fear, nearly bumping into the table behind him. His face was as pale as paper, and his lips trembled slightly. "Zhang Hao, this... this can't be a monster, right?" His voice was filled with fear and uncertainty, and his eyes stared at the dark corner in horror.

Zhang Hao cautiously walked toward the source of the sound, taking each step with extreme caution, as if he were standing on an abyss. In the corner of the room, he saw a dark shadow huddled. It seemed to blend into the darkness, making it difficult to discern its true form.

"Who are you? Why are you here?" Zhang Hao asked again. Although his voice was firm, his heart was filled with vigilance and doubt.

At that moment, the shadowy figure stirred and slowly raised its head. In the faint light filtering through the window, they finally made out its features. It was a gaunt, elderly man, his hair tangled like weeds, his face covered in wrinkles, his eyes shone with fatigue and fear. His body trembled slightly, as if he had endured endless suffering.

"Don't hurt me, I'm just a poor man trapped here." The old man said in a trembling voice. His voice was hoarse and weak, as if he had used up all his strength.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist exchanged glances, their guard down slightly. But their hands remained fixed on their weapons, ready to respond to any possible danger.

"Old man, why are you here?" Zhang Hao asked. His voice became gentler, trying to soothe the old man.

The old man sighed, "I was a hunter from a nearby village. I accidentally lost my way in the forest and came here by mistake. This wooden house looks like it can shelter me from the wind and rain, so I stayed here temporarily. But this place is full of dangers, and I can't find a way out." His eyes were full of helplessness and despair, as if he had given up hope.

The herbalist looked at the old man sympathetically, "So how long have you been here?" His voice was full of concern.

The old man shook his head and said, "I can't remember, maybe a few months." His eyes became empty, as if he was recalling those painful days.

Zhang Hao frowned, "Then do you know how to leave here?" His eyes were full of expectation, hoping to get useful clues from the old man.

The old man was silent for a moment. "I once heard that if you keep walking along this path, there will be a valley. If you cross the valley, you may be able to find a way out. But that valley is also full of dangers. I have never dared to try it." There was a hint of hesitation and fear in his voice.

Zhang Hao thought for a moment and said, "Thank you for telling me. We decided to give it a try." His eyes were firm and his heart was full of determination.

The old man looked at them worriedly, "Young man, be careful." His voice was full of concern and reminder.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist said goodbye to the old man and continued along the path. Their steps were firm and powerful, their hearts filled with a desire for a way out.

After walking for a while, we finally came into view of a valley. The valley was filled with thick fog, a thick white curtain that enveloped the entire valley. It was impossible to see the road ahead, and there was no telling what dangers lay ahead.

"The fog is too thick, be careful," Zhang Hao warned. His voice was low and cautious, and his eyes were vigilantly observing the surroundings.

They walked into the valley cautiously, and from time to time they heard strange noises, sometimes like low roars, sometimes like sharp calls, which made people feel creepy.

Suddenly, a giant bird burst out of the dense fog and swooped down upon them. Its wings, spread wide, were like two dark clouds, obscuring the sky and the sun. Its claws, sharp as knives, gleamed with a cold light.

"Be careful!" Zhang Hao shouted and pushed the herbalist away.

The herbalist fell to the ground and looked at the flying bird in horror.

Zhang Hao raised his sword and charged towards the flying bird. The bird was so fast that it was in front of Zhang Hao in an instant.

Zhang Hao dodged the bird's attack by turning sideways and swung the sword in his hand.

The bird screamed, circled in the air, and pounced on Zhang Hao again.

Zhang Hao and Fei Niao started a fierce fight, and it was difficult to tell who was the winner...