Rise of the Otherworld.

The illusion grew increasingly vivid, and the herbalist was the first to fall into confusion. He saw himself in a lush herb garden, filled with rare and precious herbs rarely seen in the world. These herbs exuded an enchanting light and fragrance, as if beckoning him. For a moment, he couldn't help but take a step forward, his eyes filled with desire and greed.

"Herbalist, wake up! This is an illusion!" the woman shouted anxiously, trying to bring him back to reality. Her voice was filled with fear and urgency, and her hands tightly grasped the corner of the herbalist's clothes.

Zhang Hao frowned and shouted, "Keep your minds focused! Don't be fooled by this illusory scene!" His voice was remarkably firm amidst the chaos, resonating like a mighty bell, resounding through the air. Veins bulged on his forehead as he struggled to resist the ever-changing scene before him.

The black-robed figure closed his eyes tightly, muttering to himself, constantly strengthening his mental defenses. A faint glow surrounded his body, attempting to block out external interference. His lips moved rapidly, and beads of sweat rolled down his forehead, dripping onto the ground and disappearing instantly.

The old man tried to remain calm and analyzed the situation: "This illusion is designed to arouse the desires deep in our hearts. As long as we remain unmoved, we will be able to break the impasse." His eyes were firm and wise. Although he was in an illusion, he still kept a clear head.

The herbalist regained consciousness at the woman's call, but his steps were still a little unsteady. His eyes were sometimes clear, sometimes confused, and his heart was struggling between desire and reason.

At that moment, Zhang Hao found himself in a magnificent palace, piled high with countless gold and silver treasures. The dazzling array of gems, opulent silks, and precious artworks was a dizzying sight. He took a deep breath and bit the tip of his tongue, using the pain to keep himself awake. The momentary sting of pain refreshed his mind, and his desire subsided slightly.

The woman saw her long-lost relatives, smiling and waving at her. Tears instantly blurred her eyes, and she reached out her hand involuntarily, murmuring, "Father, Mother, is that you?"

"No, this isn't true!" she screamed inwardly, trying to control her impulses. Her hands clenched into fists, her nails digging deep into her palms, using the pain to resist the temptation before her.

As everyone struggled, the visions grew increasingly terrifying and bizarre. Eerie laughter and mournful cries mingled, like a symphony from hell. Dark shadows spread, swallowing up all light. Hideous faces loomed in the darkness, reaching out with long claws, attempting to grasp their souls.

Zhang Hao suppressed his inner restlessness and said loudly: "If we support each other, we will definitely be able to break through this illusion!" His voice was full of strength and courage, conveying hope in this terrifying atmosphere.

Encouraged by him, the crowd gradually gathered together, holding hands tightly. Their strength seemed to converge into a torrent, fighting against the dark forces in the illusion.

The herbalist finally woke up completely, his face full of guilt: "Thanks to everyone, I almost got lost." His voice was full of self-blame and gratitude.

The man in black robe panted: "Don't be distracted, it's not over yet." His eyes were still vigilant and he didn't dare to relax at all.

The old man opened his eyes, and a trace of determination flashed in his eyes: "Together, with one mind, we can definitely break this illusion!" His voice was steady and powerful, bringing firm confidence to everyone.

Everyone shouted in unison, their powerful faith coalescing into an invisible force. That force was like a dazzling ray of light, instantly illuminating the entire illusion.

In an instant, the illusion around them shattered like a mirror, and the crisp cracking sound echoed in the air. They were back in the forest again, and the fresh air hit them, making them feel extremely comfortable.

"Finally out." The woman collapsed on the ground, gasping for breath. Her clothes were soaked with sweat, her hair was messy and stuck to her face, but her eyes were filled with the joy of surviving the disaster.

Before everyone could completely relax, a mysterious voice sounded in their ears: "Congratulations on passing the first level. Next, prepare to face the challenge of the second level..." The voice seemed to come from the distant sky, illusory, yet full of majesty.

They looked at each other, their eyes showing both fatigue and determination. They knew that the road ahead was still full of unknowns and dangers, but they were ready to face the challenge.

Zhang Hao stood up and looked at the sky: "No matter what it is, we will not back down."

The others nodded, their figures standing in the forest looking particularly determined, ready to face the upcoming second test...