Rise of the Otherworld.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist sat around a campfire, the orange flames dancing, illuminating their weary faces. The cave was filled with a damp smell, and water dripped from the ceiling with a crisp sound. The firelight illuminated a small area around them, but darkness still lurked around them.

Zhang Hao gazed at the flames, lost in thought. A hint of worry crossed his eyes as he recalled the hardships and dangers of the journey. The herbalist leaned against the stone wall, eyes closed, brow furrowed, as if still reliving the terrifying scene in his dreams.

"This journey has been incredibly dangerous," Zhang Hao said, breaking the silence. His voice echoed through the cave. His voice carried a hint of fatigue, yet also an unyielding tenacity.

The herbalist opened his eyes slightly, smiled bitterly and said, "Yeah, I don't know what's waiting for us behind." His voice was full of helplessness and fear of the unknown.

Zhang Hao took a deep breath and said, "No matter what, we must remain vigilant." He looked ahead firmly, as if to encourage himself and the herbalists.

They silently ate their rations, replenishing their energy. The rations tasted like wax, but to preserve their strength, they forced themselves to swallow. The warmth of the fire gradually relaxed their bodies, but the anxiety in their hearts did not diminish.

After a while, the herbalist's breathing became steady, as if he had fallen asleep. Zhang Hao, however, didn't dare slack off. He carefully observed the surroundings of the cave, listening to every subtle movement. The flickering of the flames, the dripping of water, and the occasional rustle of the wind outside the cave set his nerves on edge.

After an unknown amount of time, the sound of rain outside the cave gradually subsided. Zhang Hao gently woke the herbalist.

"The rain has stopped, we should leave." His voice was soft, but with an unquestionable determination.

The herbalist rubbed his eyes, stood up, and stretched his stiff body. His movements were a little slow, and it was obvious that he had not yet fully recovered from his fatigue.

They extinguished the campfire and walked out of the cave. The air was exceptionally fresh after the rain, and the sun shone through the clouds, casting a golden veil over the mountains and forests. The water droplets on the leaves sparkled like tiny gems.

"I hope the journey ahead will be smoother," the herbalist said, looking ahead. There was a hint of hope in his voice, as if he was praying for a little mercy from fate.

Zhang Hao nodded and said, "Let's go, speed up." He took the lead and took firm and powerful steps.

As they walked along the mountain path, the soil beneath their feet became soft, and small puddles formed in some places. They walked carefully, fearing that they would fall into them if they were not careful.

Suddenly, Zhang Hao heard a faint sound, like someone whispering. He stopped and signaled the herbalists to be quiet.

"Did you hear that?" Zhang Hao asked in a low voice. His eyes instantly became sharp, and he observed his surroundings vigilantly.

The herbalist shook his head, bewildered. He looked at Zhang Hao nervously, his heart beating faster.

Zhang Hao frowned and listened carefully. The sound was intermittent and unpredictable. His hand unconsciously tightened around the hilt of his sword, ready to respond to any possible danger.

Just as they were puzzled, a group of figures rushed out from the woods and surrounded them. These people had ferocious faces, holding various weapons, and their eyes revealed ferocity and greed.

"Hand over everything you have!" shouted the leading man in a hoarse voice.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist exchanged glances, secretly groaning inwardly. They hadn't expected to encounter such trouble just after leaving the cave.

"We don't have anything valuable." Zhang Hao said, trying to stabilize the situation.

"Stop talking nonsense! Don't even think about leaving alive if you don't hand it over!" The big man threatened, waving the big knife in his hand.

Zhang Hao's eyes turned cold, "Then give it a try!" As he said that, he drew out his sword, ready to fight to the death with these people.

The herbalist also held the wooden stick tightly in his hand. Although he was afraid, he knew that he could not retreat at this time.

A fierce battle is about to begin...