Xiao Ming's boots crunched against the dense forest floor, each step deliberate and measured as he pressed forward.
The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and ancient wood, the towering trees around him casting long, jagged shadows that seemed to stretch endlessly.
The Blood Ant General led the way, its hulking, crimson form weaving through the labyrinth of trees with unerring precision.
Its carapace glistened faintly under the filtered sunlight, a stark contrast to the muted greens and browns of the forest.
Behind Xiao Ming, Xue Mao perched lazily on his shoulder, its soft purring a strange counterpoint to the tension that hung heavy in the air.
The secret realm's energy pulsed faintly, a rhythm Xiao Ming could almost feel beneath his skin. It wasn't chaotic, but neither was it welcoming.