Rise of the Otherworld.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist moved cautiously through the cave, shivering at the cool breeze. The cave was dimly lit, and they could only grope their way through the feeble light. The surrounding stone walls were damp, and water dripped from them from time to time, making a crisp "tick-tick" sound.

"This place is so gloomy and spooky, it really makes me feel creepy." The herbalist's voice trembled, and his steps were a little unsteady. He kept looking around, and his hand tightly grasped the worn wooden stick, as if it was his only lifeline.

Zhang Hao comforted him, "Don't be afraid. Follow me carefully." He raised the sword slightly, the weak light reflecting off the blade, gleaming with a cold light. His steps were steady and firm, each one carefully taken, fearing to alert the unknown dangers in the cave.

The ground beneath their feet became increasingly uneven, covered with large and small rocks and potholes. They had to walk more carefully, testing the ground for stability before each step. Suddenly, Zhang Hao heard the sound of dripping water.

"The sound is coming from the front, be careful," Zhang Hao warned. His voice echoed in the cave with a hint of solemnity.

They continued walking forward and saw a huge stalactite in front of them, with water dripping continuously from it. The stalactite had a strange shape, like a giant fang, and it looked particularly strange in the dim light.

The herbalist breathed a sigh of relief: "It turned out to be the sound of dripping water, which scared me." His forehead was covered with sweat. In this damp cave, the sweat mixed with dust made his face look dirty.

However, at this moment, a low roar was heard from the cave. The sound seemed to come from the depths of hell, carrying endless anger and murderous intent.

"Oh no, there's something!" Zhang Hao looked nervous, protecting the herbalist behind him. His body was tense, like a cheetah about to pounce.

The roar grew closer, and a powerful aura filled the air. A massive black monster burst forth from the darkness. It was enormous, like a small hill, its black fur gleaming with oil. It had sharp claws and fangs, each as sharp as a dagger. Its eyes glowed red, like burning flames.

Without hesitation, Zhang Hao swung his sword at the monster, his movements swift and fierce. The sword arced through the air, piercing the wind with a whistling sound. The monster nimbly dodged the attack and lunged at Zhang Hao, its maw wide open. From its mouth emanated a foul, nauseating breath.

Zhang Hao dodged to the side and shouted, "Run quickly and find a place to hide!" His voice was firm and resolute, without any hesitation.

The herbalist hesitated: "What are you going to do then?" His eyes were full of worry and fear.

"Leave me alone, and go!" Zhang Hao shouted. His eyes were filled with determination and courage, and the herbalists could not help but obey his orders.

The herbalist gritted his teeth, turned around, and ran deeper into the cave. His footsteps echoed in the cave, carrying a hint of panic and fear.

Zhang Hao engaged in a fierce battle with the monster alone. His sword gleamed coldly in the darkness, and he struck with all his might. He nimbly dodged the monster's attacks, dodging each fatal blow.

The monster wasn't to be outdone. Its claws clawed at Zhang Hao again and again, each time accompanied by a whirring sound. Wounds gradually appeared on Zhang Hao's body, blood staining his clothes red, but he didn't flinch. His eyes were filled with determination and unyielding spirit, as if telling the monster that he would not fall easily.

Just as Zhang Hao was gradually losing strength, he suddenly discovered the monster's weakness: a lighter-colored area on its abdomen.

He took advantage of the gap between the monster's attacks and stabbed it hard at its weak spot. The sword penetrated deeply into the monster's body, and black blood gushed out.

The monster screamed and fell to the ground, its body twitching violently as it struggled to its last gasp.

Zhang Hao panted heavily, leaning tiredly against the stone wall. His body had reached its limit, but his eyes were still full of vigilance.

Just when I wanted to take a break, I heard the herbalist's cry for help...

The cry for help echoed in the cave, full of despair and fear.

Zhang Hao's heart tightened, and he endured the pain in his body and ran towards the direction of the sound...