Rise of the Otherworld.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist gazed at the treasure chest, its gold, silver, and jewels transformed into stone. Their joy vanished in an instant, and disappointment and dejection enveloped them. The once gleaming light of hope was now extinguished like a candle in the wind, leaving only endless darkness and loss.

"How could this be?" The herbalist's eyes widened in disbelief, filled with astonishment and resentment. He frantically searched the treasure chest, his hands trembling with eagerness, hoping to find even one true treasure. However, no matter how hard he tried, all he touched was cold, worthless stone.

Zhang Hao stood up and said solemnly: "I'm afraid this has been a trap from the beginning. We can't stay here for long." His voice was steady and calm. Although he was also disappointed, he was more alert to potential danger.

The herbalist helplessly put down the stone in his hand and sighed, "Oh, it's all in vain." His shoulders drooped, as if all his strength had been drained away.

Just as they were about to leave, the palace suddenly shook violently, the surrounding walls began to collapse, and countless rocks fell one after another. The once magnificent palace instantly turned into a scene of doom, and the roar of the tumbling rocks was deafening.

"Oh no! Let's go!" Zhang Hao grabbed the herbalist and rushed towards the palace exit. His steps were firm and swift, and he held the sword tightly in his hand to guard against any danger that might arise at any time.

They dodged and dodged among the rocks, facing danger on every side. A huge rock came crashing down on the herbalist. Zhang Hao pushed it away, only to be grazed on the arm. Blood oozed from the wound, staining his sleeve red, but he paid it no mind.

"Zhang Hao, are you okay?" the herbalist asked with concern. His voice was filled with worry, and his eyes were full of gratitude towards Zhang Hao.

Zhang Hao gritted his teeth and said, "Don't worry about me, run!" His voice was a little painful, but more firm and courageous.

Finally, they burst out of the palace and reached an open meadow. The grass beneath their feet was soft and moist, and a gentle breeze brought a touch of coolness. However, before they could even catch their breath, the palace behind them collapsed completely, raising a cloud of dust. The billowing dust, like a giant dragon, soared into the sky, completely obscuring their vision.

"What the hell is this place?" The herbalist looked at the ruins before him, exhausted and bewildered. His voice was filled with helplessness and fear of the unknown.

Zhang Hao wiped the dust off his face and said, "No matter what, let's leave here first." His eyes were firm and persistent. Although he was in trouble, his inner belief never wavered.

The two continued on their way, silent as they pondered this series of bizarre encounters. Their steps were heavy, as if each one carried a tremendous pressure.

After walking for an unknown amount of time, they came to a stream. The clear water gurgled, its surface like a mirror, reflecting their shambling figures. Wildflowers bloomed by the stream, emitting a delicate fragrance, but they had no interest in appreciating the beauty.

The herbalist squatted down, scooped up stream water to wash his face, and said, "Zhang Hao, what should we do next?" There was a hint of confusion and helplessness in his voice.

Zhang Hao looked into the distance, pondered for a moment and said, "I think all the weirdness in these ruins may be related to the secret of this valley. We have to find a way to figure it out." His eyes were deep and firm, as if he had already made the next plan in his mind.

At this moment, a strange light suddenly appeared in the stream, and a mysterious voice sounded in their ears: "Intruders, your fate has already been determined..." The voice was ethereal, as if it came from another world.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist looked at each other, their hearts filled with shock and confusion.

"Where does this sound come from?" the herbalist asked in horror.

Zhang Hao gripped the sword tightly in his hand and said, "Don't be afraid, let's take a look at the situation first."

The light in the stream grew stronger and stronger, forming a huge whirlpool. A powerful force pulled them into the whirlpool.

"Oh no, let's get out of here!" Zhang Hao shouted.

However, the force was too strong, and they were unable to break free and were instantly sucked into the vortex...