Rise of the Otherworld.

After a short rest, the group regained some strength and continued their climb toward the summit. The path became increasingly rugged and difficult to navigate, shrouded in mist and clouds, making it seem as if they were in a fairyland. However, they had no time to appreciate the scenery. Every step was filled with hardship, and every breath was heavy with fatigue.

Suddenly, Zhang Hao discovered a hidden cave nestled in the mountainside, its entrance obscured by vines. The vines, lush and verdant, formed a natural barrier. "Look, there's a cave over there. Maybe there's a clue inside," Zhang Hao said, his voice echoing through the silent mountain, tinged with anticipation and excitement.

The group approached the cave cautiously, each step slow and cautious. A strange aura permeated the cavern, a cold and oppressive atmosphere that seemed to freeze the soul. The darkness seemed to harbor unknown dangers, causing one's heart to beat faster.

Zhang Hao lit a torch, illuminating the path ahead. The torch's light flickered in the darkness, as if it would be swallowed up at any moment. "Be careful, follow me," he warned, his voice low and serious.

Entering the cave, they discovered strange symbols and patterns carved into the walls. These twisting symbols and patterns resembled ancient writings or mysterious totems. "What does this mean?" the herbalist asked doubtfully, his voice filled with curiosity and fear.

The old man observed it carefully, his eyes sweeping across the wall, his brow furrowed. "Perhaps this is some kind of ancient record," he said slowly, his voice filled with thought and speculation.

At that moment, a low roar erupted from the depths of the cave. It sounded like something from hell, filled with rage and pain. "Oh no! Something's happening!" the black-robed figure said nervously, his voice trembling as he unconsciously clenched the magic weapon in his hand.

Everyone gripped their weapons tightly and stared warily at the direction of the sound. Their breathing became rapid and their hearts beat like drums.

A gigantic monster slowly emerged from the darkness. Its bulk was immense, towering like a mountain. Its fur was as rough as rock, and its muscles bulged with strength. Its eyes glowed red, like burning flames.

"This is going to be another fierce battle!" Zhang Hao gritted his teeth and rushed forward first. His figure flashed in the firelight, sword raised high in his hand with fearless courage.

The monster swung its huge claws and pounced on Zhang Hao. The claws made a sharp sound, as if they could tear everything apart.

Zhang Hao dodged nimbly, his figure like a ghost. He took the opportunity to swing his sword at the monster, and the sword collided with the monster's skin, splashing a string of sparks.

Others joined the battle, and the old man cast a powerful spell, illuminating the entire cave. The light was like a sharp sword, piercing the monster.

The herbalist was looking for the monster's weakness. His eyes swept quickly over the monster, and he was thinking anxiously in his heart.

After a fierce fight, the monster gradually lost the upper hand. Its movements became sluggish and its body was covered with wounds.

Just when they thought they were about to win, the monster suddenly spewed out a black smoke that instantly filled the entire cave. The smoke had a pungent smell that made it difficult to breathe.

The smoke choked everyone, causing them to cough uncontrollably and their vision to blur. All they could see was darkness and smoke, making it impossible to tell which way was which.

"Everyone be careful!" Zhang Hao shouted loudly, his voice a little unclear in the smoke.

In the chaos, the monster took advantage of the situation and launched an even more violent attack. Its claws swung wildly in the smoke, and everyone could only rely on sound and sense to dodge.

Zhang Hao tried hard to stay calm and attacked the monster based on his memory and intuition.

The man in black robes kept casting spells, trying to disperse the smoke.

The old man was also trying hard to maintain the light of the spell to provide some lighting for everyone.

The herbalists were groping in the smoke, looking for something they could use.

After a difficult struggle, the smoke finally began to dissipate...