Rise of the Otherworld.

Zhang Hao and the others dragged their exhausted bodies slowly through the forest. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, shimmering down upon them, yet the dappled light and shadows could not dispel the gloom in their hearts. Each of their steps seemed heavy and sluggish, as if bound by invisible shackles.

"Where should we go next?" a disciple asked weakly. His voice was filled with confusion and fatigue, and his eyes were dull.

Zhang Hao stopped and pulled out the scroll he had obtained from the Shadow Alliance base, examining it carefully. The scroll's paper had turned a bit yellow, and the markings and patterns drawn on it were complex and mysterious.

"The markings here might give us some direction." Zhang Hao frowned, trying to decipher the complex symbols. His eyes were focused and persistent, and sweat dripped down his cheeks.

Mo Ying came over and said, "But this thing is too mysterious. We can't rely on it completely." There was a hint of worry in his voice, and his eyes switched back and forth between the scroll and the surrounding environment.

Feng Wuhen looked into the distance and said, "No matter what, let's get out of this forest first." His eyes were firm, as if he had already seen a way out ahead.

The group continued to move forward. The mountain road was rugged and difficult to walk on, covered with thorns and stones. Their steps became heavier and heavier, and each step required a huge effort.

Suddenly, a gust of wind blew past, rustling the leaves and shaking the branches violently, as if they were about to be uprooted.

"Be careful!" Zhang Hao shouted alertly, his voice clear in the strong wind.

Suddenly, a group of ferocious beasts rushed out from the woods and pounced on them with their fangs and claws bared. These beasts had red eyes, sharp fangs, and exuded a terrifying aura.

The Xuantian Sect disciples instantly gripped their weapons, ready to meet the enemy. Their heartbeats quickened, and their breathing became rapid.

Zhang Hao rushed forward first, engaging a massive tiger. He nimbly dodged its attacks, his form shifting like a ghost. The tiger lunged, and Zhang Hao dodged to the side, his sword swinging smoothly, leaving a wound in its path. The tiger, in pain, attacked Zhang Hao even more frantically.

Not to be outdone, Mo Ying and Feng Wuhen each dealt with the other beasts. Mo Ying's swordsmanship was sharp, each strike imbued with powerful internal energy, forcing the beasts before him to retreat repeatedly. Feng Wuhen, relying on his agility, weaved between the beasts, looking for opportunities to attack.

After a fierce battle, the beasts were finally driven back, and everyone was exhausted and panting. Their bodies were covered in blood and sweat, and their clothes were torn in many places.

"How could so many wild beasts suddenly appear in this forest?" a disciple asked in confusion. His voice was filled with confusion and fear, and his eyes still showed the horror of the previous battle.

Feng Wuhen's face was solemn, "I'm afraid this is not a coincidence, maybe someone is controlling it in secret." He glanced around, as if looking for the enemy hiding in the dark.

Zhang Hao nodded and said, "No matter what, we have to speed up." His voice was firm and powerful, bringing a glimmer of hope to everyone.

They quickened their pace and finally emerged from the forest. Before them lay a vast plain, covered in green grass, rippling with the breeze. In the distance, a city loomed, its walls towering and imposing.

"Could that be our destination?" Mo Ying asked, his eyes filled with anticipation and confusion.

Zhang Hao pondered for a moment and said, "Let's go and take a look." There was a hint of determination in his voice.

When they approached the city, they found the gates were closed and a group of guards stood on the walls, looking vigilant. The guards were dressed in armor and holding spears, looking very majestic.

"Who is it?" the guard shouted, his voice echoing from the city wall, full of majesty.

Zhang Hao stepped forward and said, "We are disciples of Xuantian Sect and are passing by here." His voice was neither humble nor arrogant, and his eyes were sincere.

The guards looked at each other and said, "Xuantian Gate? Never heard of it. You are not allowed to enter the city!" Their attitude was firm and there was no room for negotiation.

Zhang Hao and the others had no choice but to find a place outside the city to rest temporarily. At night, they sat together around a campfire. The flames danced, illuminating their exhausted faces.

"This journey has been truly fraught with difficulties," Mo Ying lamented. His voice was filled with helplessness and exhaustion, and he gazed at the dancing flames, lost in thought.

"But as long as we don't give up, we will definitely accomplish our mission," Zhang Hao said firmly, his eyes flickering in the firelight, full of determination.

On this quiet night, their hearts were filled with confusion and anticipation for the future. A gentle breeze blew by, bringing a hint of coolness and taking away their fatigue and worries. Tomorrow would be another day filled with uncertainty...