Rise of the Otherworld.

"This isn't going to work!" Zhang Hao fretted. While desperately resisting the Shadow Beast's attacks, he quickly considered a countermeasure. Sweat dripped from his forehead, stinging his eyes, but he didn't even have time to blink. Every swing of his sword was accompanied by muscle aches and a drain on his spiritual power, but his gaze remained firm, unwavering.

At this moment, he discovered that the shadow beasts seemed afraid of light. An idea flashed through his mind, and he shouted, "Everyone, concentrate your forces and attack one spot to drive them back. I'll find a way to create light!" His voice was particularly loud in the fierce battle, full of strength and determination.

Upon hearing this, everyone charged in one direction with all their might. The black-robed man roared, brandishing his weapon with ferocity, each strike laced with boundless fury and power. His eyes burned with rage, as if he wanted to incinerate all these shadow beasts. Muscles tensed, veins bulging, each attack drawing all his strength.

The herbalist also fought with all his might, applying his knowledge of herbs to the battle, occasionally throwing out herbs with special effects to disrupt the shadow beast's movements. Although his movements were not as powerful as those of the black-robed man, he was very agile, skillfully avoiding the shadow beast's attacks while creating opportunities for his companions.

The old man continued to cast spells, providing support and protection for everyone. He muttered something, and the staff in his hand flashed with light. Rays of magic light shot towards the shadow beasts, temporarily slowing their attack.

With everyone's concerted efforts, the Shadow Beast's attack was finally temporarily repelled.

Zhang Hao seized the opportunity and pulled out a glowing gem from his bosom. This gem had been found by chance in the cave. He tossed it into the air, infusing it with his own spiritual energy. The gem instantly erupted with an intense light, illuminating the entire dark space. The light, like the breaking light of dawn, dispelled the fear and gloom brought by the darkness.

Under the light, the shadow beasts howled in pain and retreated one after another. Their figures appeared distorted and hideous in the light, and their originally fierce eyes were filled with fear and anxiety.

"Let's go now!" Zhang Hao shouted. His voice was filled with urgency, urging everyone to leave this dangerous place quickly.

Without delay, everyone rushed forward, their footsteps echoing in the empty passage, accompanied by the sound of rapid breathing.

However, the light only lasted a short time. As the gem's light gradually dimmed, the shadow beasts began to stir again, chasing after them. Their footsteps were getting closer and closer, like the sound of death knell ringing in their ears.

"We can't let them catch up!" Zhang Hao gritted his teeth, stopped, and turned to face the shadow beast. His eyes were full of determination, as if he was ready to die.

"Zhang Hao, what are you doing?" the black-robed man shouted, his voice filled with surprise and worry.

"You go ahead, I'll hold them back!" Zhang Hao's eyes were determined, with no intention of retreating. His figure appeared lonely and heroic in the dim light.

Everyone knew Zhang Hao's determination and had no choice but to keep running forward. Their hearts were filled with reluctance and worry, but they also understood that only by finding a way out as soon as possible could they live up to Zhang Hao's sacrifice.

Zhang Hao faced the group of shadow beasts alone, without a trace of fear. He took a deep breath, channeling his spiritual energy to its full potential, and the sword in his hand radiated a dazzling light. "Come on, beasts!" Zhang Hao shouted, charging towards the shadow beasts. His figure flashed like a flash of lightning, instantly piercing the shadow beasts.

A fierce battle erupted once again. Zhang Hao's sword gleamed through the shadows, each strike laced with the determination to kill. His movements were swift and sharp, each strike accurately targeting the shadow beast's vital points. However, the shadow beasts were numerous, and he gradually accumulated more wounds.

The Shadow Beast's attacks surged like a tide, but Zhang Hao, relying on his agility and tenacious will, dodged the fatal blows time and time again. His clothes were already stained with blood, but his eyes remained firm, without a wavering moment.

Just as Zhang Hao was beginning to feel his strength wear out, the old man and the others rushed back. "Let's fight together!" the old man shouted, his voice filled with determination and courage.

Everyone joined the battle again, fighting alongside Zhang Hao, their hearts filled with trust in each other and a desire for victory.

Finally, with everyone's joint efforts, the shadow beasts were repelled and disappeared into the darkness.

"Finally got rid of them." The herbalist sat down on the ground, breathing heavily. His face was full of fatigue and relief at having survived.

Zhang Hao leaned against the wall wearily, a pleased smile on his face. His body had reached its limit, but his spirit remained high.

"Keep going, we're one step closer to our goal," Zhang Hao said. His voice, though weak, was filled with hope and anticipation.

Everyone nodded, supporting each other, and continued on this road filled with unknowns and dangers. Their figures gradually faded away, leaving behind a firm belief and an indomitable spirit...