Rise of the Otherworld.

Hearing this sudden sound, everyone tensed up, forming a defensive circle with their backs together, warily observing their surroundings. Their heartbeats were remarkably clear in the silent palace, each beat a response to an unknown fear.

"Who are you? Why did you bring us here?" Zhang Hao shouted, his voice echoing throughout the empty palace. His voice was filled with anger and confusion, and his eyes gleamed with determination, as if he was using this momentum to force the mysterious voice to give an answer.

The voice sounded again, with a hint of teasing: "Since you have come here, you are destined to accept the test. If you pass the test, you will gain unexpected rewards; if you fail, you will stay here forever." The voice echoed in every corner of the palace, making it impossible to identify its source.

The woman's face was pale and her voice trembled as she said, "What kind of test is this?" Her body trembled slightly, and the dagger in her hand was gripped tighter because of nervousness, and her knuckles turned white from the force.

"Don't worry, the test will begin soon." As soon as the voice fell, rays of light suddenly rose from the palace floor, forming a huge magic circle. The light was so bright and dazzling that it blinded everyone.

Amidst the shimmering light, a group of armored warriors emerged from the magic circle. Their faces were expressionless, their eyes cold, and the weapons in their hands shone with a chilling light. The metal armor reflected a cold sheen under the shining light, sending shivers down one's spine.

"Defeat these warriors and you will pass the first level." said the mysterious voice.

Zhang Hao gritted his teeth and said, "Everyone, be careful! Attack together!" He rushed out first, sword raised high, and slashed at a soldier. His figure was like a flash of lightning, and he instantly intertwined with the enemy.

Everyone displayed their unique skills, engaging in a fierce battle with the warriors. Zhang Hao's sword was like a raging storm, each strike carrying a sharp momentum, drawing brilliant arcs through the air. His eyes were focused and determined, pouring all his strength into each attack.

The woman's magic shone continuously, illuminating the dark corners. Her magic was like fireworks blooming in the night sky, beautiful yet deadly. Rays of light shot towards the enemy, providing powerful support to Zhang Hao and the others.

The black-robed figure's fire spell exploded among the warriors, creating a sea of ​​fire. The blazing flames enveloped the warriors. He waved his staff, muttering to himself, continuously unleashing powerful spells.

The herbalist nimbly moved across the battlefield, disrupting the soldiers' movements with herbal hidden weapons. His movements were as agile as a nimble monkey, and each move was perfectly timed.

The old man in the back continuously cast buffs on everyone, increasing their combat effectiveness. His hands danced, chanting ancient incantations. A faint light enveloped everyone, giving them a sense of strength flowing continuously.

Yet, these warriors seemed tireless and unafraid of pain. As one wave fell, another quickly took its place. Their attacks were methodical and coordinated, bringing immense pressure to the crowd.

The battle dragged on for a long time, draining everyone's physical strength and magical power rapidly. Zhang Hao's breathing became heavy, and each swing of his sword required more effort. The woman's magic light gradually dimmed, and her forehead was covered with sweat.

"This won't work. We have to find their weakness!" Zhang Hao shouted. His voice was a little hoarse from exhaustion, but still full of determination.

At that moment, the woman noticed that the joints in the warriors' armor seemed weak. "Attack the joints!" the woman shouted, her voice sharp with excitement.

Upon hearing this, everyone changed their attack strategy. As expected, the soldiers' defenses began to show holes, and one after another they fell. Their bodies transformed into streaks of light on the ground and disappeared.

Finally, all the warriors were defeated, the magic circle disappeared, and everyone collapsed to the ground, gasping for breath, their clothes soaked with sweat.

Before anyone could catch their breath, countless arrow holes suddenly appeared on the palace walls, and sharp arrows flew towards them like locusts. The arrows whistled, tearing through the air and bringing the threat of death.

"Be careful!" Zhang Hao swung his sword to block the incoming arrows. His arms ached from the constant blocking, but he gritted his teeth and persevered.

Everyone sought cover in the chaotic scene. The woman hid behind a pillar, watching the rain of arrows outside with lingering fear.

"This second level is too difficult!" the herbalist complained, his voice filled with helplessness and exhaustion.

But despite the complaints, everyone still tried their best to deal with it.

The old man observed the pattern of the rain of arrows, "Follow me!" His eyes were focused, not missing any changes in the rain of arrows.

Led by the old man, they weaved through the rain of arrows, gradually approaching the wall where the arrow holes were. Their figures appeared and disappeared in the rain of arrows, as if dancing on the edge of death.

Zhang Hao and the black-robed man worked together, using magic and swords to destroy the arrow holes, and the rain of arrows finally stopped. Their bodies were covered with sweat and dust, but their eyes revealed a hint of joy of victory.

"How many more trials await us?" the woman asked wearily, a hint of despair in her voice.

At this moment, the mysterious voice sounded again: "Next is the last level..."

A huge platform slowly rose in the center of the palace, with mysterious runes flashing on the platform.

"Step onto this platform and accept the final test. But remember, in this level, life and death are at your own risk." said the mysterious voice.

Everyone looked at each other, their hearts filled with hesitation and fear. But they knew there was no turning back...