Rise of the Otherworld.

Facing the overwhelming force of the mysterious man's attack, Zhang Hao instantly drew his sword across his body, adopting a defensive stance. His eyes revealed a resolute determination, as if he would never retreat, even in the face of overwhelming power. The herbalist, terrified by the overwhelming force, collapsed to the ground, his face as pale as paper, his lips trembling, his eyes filled with endless fear.

"Hmph, you're overestimating yourself," the mysterious man sneered. His voice seemed to come from the depths of the abyss, carrying a bone-chilling chill. A dark aura emanated from the mysterious man, a thick, dark cloud that oppressed him, making it hard to breathe.

Zhang Hao gritted his teeth and charged forward again, his sword slicing a cold gleam through the air. His movements were swift and fierce, each one pouring all his strength and determination into it. However, the mysterious man's strength far exceeded his expectations, and each attack was easily neutralized. With a simple flick of his sleeve, the mysterious man deflected Zhang Hao's sword strikes. Zhang Hao felt a huge recoil, and his arm went numb.

"Zhang Hao, run! We are no match for him!" the herbalist screamed beside him. His voice was tearful, filled with despair and helplessness.

Zhang Hao, however, acted as if he hadn't heard anything. He had only one thought in mind: to fight this mysterious man to the bitter end. His eyes grew more determined, and he swung his sword again at the mysterious man.

The mysterious man seemed tired of this game. He clasped his hands together, muttering something. Instantly, the air around him seemed to freeze, and an even more powerful force gathered in his hands. That force, like a ball of black flame, danced and distorted the surrounding space.

"Die!" The mysterious man suddenly pushed out his strength. This force rushed towards Zhang Hao like a surging torrent.

Zhang Hao felt an irresistible pressure, and was sent flying, crashing heavily into a large tree. With a snap, the tree broke, sending Zhang Hao tumbling down.

"Puff!" Zhang Hao spat out a large mouthful of blood, staining the ground in front of him red. His consciousness began to blur, and the scene before him became blurred, but his hand still tightly grasped the sword, refusing to let go.

Seeing this, the herbalist, finding courage from nowhere, rushed over to help Zhang Hao up. Tears welled up in his eyes, "Zhang Hao, you can't die. We have to get out of this together!" His voice was trembling and firm, and his hands were firmly supporting Zhang Hao's body.

At this moment, a ray of light suddenly appeared behind the mysterious man, and within it seemed to be a figure. The light was like a rising sun, illuminating this dark corner, forming a sharp contrast with the mysterious man's dark aura.

"Who?" The mysterious man turned around warily. A hint of panic appeared on his face, and he was obviously surprised by this sudden change.

The figure in the light gradually became clearer. It was an old man. He was dressed in a white robe, with flowing white hair, and he looked like an immortal. His eyes were deep and bright, as if he could see through everything.

"You evil man, you are committing evil here!" the old man shouted. His voice was loud and majestic, full of the power of justice.

The mysterious man's face changed. "How did you find this place?" There was a hint of fear and confusion in his voice.

The old man smiled slightly and said, "Those who do evil will eventually perish. Today is your end." His tone was calm and firm, as if everything was under his control.

After saying this, the old man waved his hands and unleashed a powerful spell. The spell transformed into a brilliant light and rushed towards the mysterious man's dark power.

Suddenly, the sky and the earth changed color, and sand and rocks flew everywhere. The surrounding trees were uprooted by the powerful force and sent flying through the air. Zhang Hao and the herbalist watched on in amazement; they had never witnessed such a powerful showdown.

In the end, the mysterious man was defeated by the old man and was reduced to ashes. The dark aura instantly dissipated, and peace returned to the surroundings.

The old man slowly walked towards Zhang Hao and the herbalist, "Are you okay?" His voice was gentle and kind.

Zhang Hao held on to his body and said, "Thank you for saving me, senior." His voice was weak but full of gratitude.

"It's not advisable to stay here for long. Come with me," said the old man.

Zhang Hao and the herbalist supported each other and followed the old man out of this dangerous place. Their figures gradually faded away, leaving behind only a messy battlefield, witnessing the fierce battle that had just taken place...