Rise of the Otherworld.

The footsteps stopped at the cave entrance, and everyone's heart leaped into their throat. Zhang Hao gripped his sword tightly, ready to respond to any danger. His muscles tensed, his eyes filled with vigilance, and beads of sweat trickled down his cheeks.

However, to their surprise, a low voice came from the entrance of the cave: "Don't be nervous, my friends inside, I have no ill intentions." The voice echoed in the silent cave with a hint of soothing meaning.

Everyone looked at each other, not daring to believe it. Zhang Hao asked cautiously, "Who are you?" His voice was low and powerful, and he didn't relax his sword at all.

"I am a cultivator in this valley. I just saw you being hunted by that mysterious group of people," the voice at the cave entrance replied. The voice was steady and calm, as if it was accustomed to all this.

Zhang Hao hesitated for a moment, then slowly stood up and walked towards the cave entrance. When he reached the entrance, he saw a man in a gray robe. The man's face was weathered, and time had left deep marks on his face, but his eyes revealed sincerity and determination.

"I can help you escape those mysterious men," the man said. His gaze swept over the crowd, revealing a reassuring power.

Zhang Hao looked him over, still harboring doubts, but the situation forced him to take a risk. "Why are you helping us?" His voice was filled with a hint of doubt and defensiveness.

The man smiled slightly: "In this dangerous place, helping each other is the way to survive. Besides, I also know something about those mysterious people." There was a hint of helplessness and emotion in his smile.

Zhang Hao thought for a moment and decided to trust him. They followed the man out of the cave, moving cautiously through the thick fog. The fog enveloped them like a thick curtain, making every step filled with uncertainty and danger.

The man seemed to be very familiar with the valley, leading them around turns and traps one after another. His steps were light and steady, and every movement seemed so calm and unhurried.

"Those mysterious people are from a mysterious organization, searching this continent for some powerful force," the man said as he walked. His voice was a little hazy in the thick fog.

"What power?" the herbalist asked curiously, his voice filled with curiosity and nervousness as he followed the man closely.

The man shook his head: "I don't know the details, but they will do anything to achieve their goals." His brows furrowed slightly, and a hint of worry flashed in his eyes.

Led by the man, they finally walked out of the foggy valley. Outside the valley, the sun shone on them, bringing a touch of warmth and hope.

"Thank you for your help," Zhang Hao said gratefully. His eyes were filled with sincerity as he bowed deeply to the man.

The man waved his hand and said, "The road ahead is still long, please be careful." After that, the man turned and left, his figure gradually moving away in the sunlight.

Zhang Hao and his companions continued on their journey. After several days of trekking, they arrived at a bustling town. The streets were bustling with people. The shops were filled with a wide variety of goods, and the sounds of shouting and bargaining echoed.

The town was bustling with activity, people coming and going. But they dared not let their guard down, fearing the mysterious man would reappear. Their eyes scanned the crowds around them warily, their weapons ready to be drawn.

"Let's find a place to rest first," Zhang Hao said. There was a hint of fatigue in his voice. They were all exhausted both physically and mentally after days of traveling.

They found an inn to stay in, and in the room, everyone began to discuss their next plan.

"We must find the mysterious mountain as soon as possible and unlock the secret of the artifact," the old man said. His eyes were filled with anticipation and eagerness, and he tapped the ground lightly with his staff.

"But there are many dangers along the way, so we must be fully prepared," the black-robed man said with a frown. His face was full of worry, and his fingers kept stroking the handle of his weapon.

At this moment, there was a sudden noise outside the window. Zhang Hao walked to the window and looked out, only to see a group of people gathered in the middle of the street, seemingly arguing about something.

"Let's go and take a look." Zhang Hao said.

They walked out of the room, went downstairs, and squeezed into the crowd. They saw two businessmen arguing over a business deal, neither of them giving in.

"What's there to argue about?" said the herbalist.

Zhang Hao shook his head: "I'm afraid it's not that simple."

At this moment, several unfamiliar faces suddenly appeared in the crowd, their eyes fixed on Zhang Hao and others...