The Buried Tree Devil

Following his recent and harrowing expeditions in Nansha, Wu Xie returns to the familiar surroundings of Hangzhou hoping for a period of rest. His plans are abruptly interrupted when he receives an unexpected phone call from Lao Yang, a childhood friend he has not heard from in years. Lao Yang speaks urgently about a journey they undertook three years earlier deep within the remote hinterlands of the Qinling Mountains, persuading Wu Xie to join him once more in exploring the ancient ruins hidden there. Drawn back into the unknown, the two friends venture into the treacherous depths of the mountains. Their expedition quickly reveals wonders far beyond their expectations, including a massive taimen, a breathtaking underground waterfall, and an ancient sacred tree of unfathomable scale and mystery. As they navigate these perilous subterranean landscapes, they must confront the dangers lurking within the forgotten ruins. Throughout this harrowing journey, Wu Xie is unaware that he is not entirely alone. Zhang Qiling, who has remained elusive and out of sight since the very beginning, is operating quietly in the shadows. Despite his absence from the group, Zhang Qiling is secretly working behind the scenes to guide and protect Wu Xie as the mysteries of the Qinling Mountains continue to unfold.