Rise of the Otherworld.

Resting in the cave wasn't easy. The damp environment slowed wound healing, and limited food and water made it difficult for everyone to regain their strength. A dreary atmosphere permeated the cave, and the constant dripping of water from the stone walls seemed like a countdown to the passage of time. But the disciples of Xuantian Sect didn't complain. Their single-minded determination was to complete their mission. They supported and encouraged each other, persevering tenaciously despite the difficult circumstances.

Zhang Hao and Mo Ying took advantage of this time to discuss their next plan of action. In the corner of the cave, their figures were illuminated by the faint light of the fire.

"Now that the Shadow Alliance has strengthened its defenses, it's going to be even harder for us to infiltrate," Mo Ying said worriedly, his brow furrowed. His voice was low and filled with deep worry, and his eyes revealed uncertainty about the future.

Zhang Hao's eyes were firm, like a burning torch, "No matter how difficult it is, we have to do it. The sect is still waiting for our news. If we retreat, Xuantian Sect may be doomed." His words were loud and clear, full of determination and courage.

After a few days of recuperation, the disciples' injuries finally showed some improvement. Although their bodies were still weak, the will to fight burned even brighter in their eyes.

"It's time to go," Zhang Hao said, looking at the crowd. His voice was calm and firm, as if it had an invisible force that made everyone feel at ease.

Everyone stood up, their eyes filled with determination. Although their movements were still a little slow, their unstoppable momentum was undiminished.

They cautiously emerged from the cave, groping their way towards the Shadow Alliance's stronghold. The surrounding woods were silent, with only the soft rustle of their footsteps and breathing. Each step was like testing the darkness, fearing to alert any potential enemy.

Along the way, they avoided several enemy patrols and escaped danger. Every time they passed by the enemy, their hearts were in their throats, but with their excellent concealment skills and tacit cooperation, they escaped danger time and time again.

However, just as they were about to approach their goal, they discovered a huge trap in front of them. The trap was surrounded by sharp bamboo sticks, and if they fell into it, they would be doomed.

"Oh no! This is targeting us!" a disciple exclaimed. His voice trembled with fear, and cold sweat instantly covered his forehead.

Zhang Hao gritted his teeth and said, "Calm down, there must be a way to get around it." His eyes quickly scanned the surroundings, his brain working rapidly, thinking about how to deal with it.

Everyone began to search for a detour, but time was running out and a Shadow Alliance patrol could appear at any moment. Every second that passed made their hearts beat faster, and the tense atmosphere was like an invisible net, tightly binding them.

Just then, a careful disciple discovered a hidden passage that might allow them to avoid the trap. "Everyone, follow me!" the disciple shouted, his voice tinged with excitement and anticipation.

Everyone followed without hesitation. The passage was narrow and dark, filled with a lingering smell of decay. Water droplets continuously dripped from the walls, and the ground beneath their feet was slippery and difficult to walk on.

"Watch your step, watch your head," Zhang Hao kept reminding everyone. He walked at the front of the team, weapon in hand, always ready to deal with any danger that might arise.

Finally, they successfully passed through the passage and arrived at the rear of the Shadow Alliance base. However, a new problem now presented itself. The rear of the base was heavily guarded, with more enemy patrols than expected, and the area was filled with various traps and alarms.

"What should we do?" a disciple asked in a low voice, with a hint of despair in his eyes.

Zhang Hao took a deep breath and said, "Don't panic, we will definitely find a way." He looked firmly ahead, thinking about the strategy for a breakthrough in his mind.

Just as they were racking their brains for a solution, they suddenly heard footsteps coming towards them...