Rise of the Otherworld.

Supporting each other, they groped their way forward in the darkness and finally found a relatively safe cave. The entrance was hidden by dense vegetation and was difficult to spot without careful observation.

After entering the cave, Zhang Hao slowly sat down against the wall, breathing heavily. His wounds were still bleeding, the crimson stains filtering through his tattered clothing a shocking sight. Every breath was accompanied by pain, furrowing his brows and causing beads of sweat to roll down his forehead.

The woman collapsed to the ground, exhausted. Her eyes were blurry, their once bright glow now dull. "We're lucky to have made it this far alive." Her voice was as weak as a candle in the wind, as if it would go out in the next second.

The black-robed man found a corner and sat down, examining his staff. The gemstone on the staff was cracked, and its radiance had dimmed. "This was a narrow escape, and I don't know how many more dangers await us." His tone was filled with helplessness and worry, his eyes revealing a sense of uncertainty about the future.

The herbalist busily dug some herbs from his backpack and began treating everyone's wounds. His movements were skillful and quick, yet his fatigue was evident. "Treat the wound first, or it'll get infected and cause trouble," he said, carefully crushing the herbs and applying them to Zhang Hao's wound.

The old man sat at the entrance of the cave, vigilantly observing the movements outside. His eyes were deep and sharp, not missing a single movement.

With the help of the herbalists, their wounds were initially treated, and the pain was slightly relieved. However, their physical strength and magical powers had not yet recovered, and they were still very weak. Each face was filled with fatigue and haggardness, as if they had experienced a long nightmare.

"We need to rest here for a while and recover our strength before setting off again," Zhang Hao said. His voice was weak but full of determination.

Everyone nodded in agreement.

For the next few days, everyone rested in the cave. Zhang Hao used this time to think about his next course of action, his mind constantly replaying his previous experiences, trying to find some clues and inspiration from them.

The woman worked hard to recover her magic power. She sat cross-legged on the ground, forming seals with her hands, and the surrounding spiritual energy slowly gathered around her. However, due to the severity of her injuries, her recovery was very slow.

The man in black robe was studying new spells. He carved some runes on the wall of the cave and kept trying to combine and arrange them, hoping to find a more powerful means of attack.

The herbalist was looking for more useful herbs. He traveled through the forests near the cave, carefully identifying each plant.

The old man gave everyone some advice from time to time, and his rich experience became a guide for everyone in difficult situations.

As time went by, everyone's condition gradually improved. Zhang Hao's wounds began to heal and scab over. The woman's magical power also recovered somewhat, and she was able to cast some simple spells. The black-robed man also made some progress in his new spells, and the herbalist found a number of precious herbs.

"It's time to go." Zhang Hao stood up and stretched his muscles. His eyes were rekindled with fighting spirit, as if he had turned back into the brave warrior.

Everyone packed up their luggage and prepared to leave the cave.

After exiting the cave, they found themselves in an unfamiliar valley. A thick fog filled the valley, obscuring the path ahead. The white mist, like a veil, enveloped the entire valley in a mysterious veil.

"Be careful, there may be unknown dangers hidden here," the old man warned. His voice was low and serious, making everyone's nerves tense again.

Everyone moved forward cautiously in the valley, taking every step with extreme caution. Suddenly, a strange sound came from the thick fog. It sounded like a sharp cry, but also like a low roar, making people shudder.

"What's that sound?" The woman's voice was filled with fear. She unconsciously moved closer to Zhang Hao, gripping the dagger tighter.

Zhang Hao stopped and listened carefully to the source of the sound. His eyes were focused and alert, trying to distinguish the direction of danger from the chaotic sounds.

Just then, a giant bird burst out from the thick fog and attacked them. The bird spread its enormous wings, blocking out the sun. Its claws were as sharp as knives, flashing with a cold light.

Zhang Hao quickly swung his sword to block, "Everyone be careful!" he shouted.

The woman cast a spell, and light flickered in the thick fog.

The black-robed man raised his staff and released a flame.

The herbalist was looking for the bird's weakness.

The old man kept directing the direction of everyone's attack.

With everyone's concerted efforts, the bird's attacks were neutralized time and time again. But it didn't give up, and instead became even more ferocious...