Rise of the Otherworld.

The strange noise grew closer, and everyone's nerves were once again on edge. Zhang Hao gripped his sword tightly, leaning forward slightly in a defensive stance. His eyes were fixed fixed on the front, not daring to relax even a moment. Beads of sweat dripped down his cheeks and onto the dusty ground.

The woman leaned against Zhang Hao, her hands trembling, her eyes filled with fear. Her breathing was rapid and erratic, and her heart felt like it was about to burst out of her throat. "Zhang Hao, I'm scared," she cried, her body shaking uncontrollably.

The herbalist, trembling, hid behind a large rock, peeking out to observe. His face was as pale as paper, his legs weak, and he almost collapsed to the ground. "What should I do? What should I do?" he kept muttering, his heart filled with fear and helplessness.

The black-robed man and the old man stared intently at the direction of the sound, ready to respond to any possible danger. The black-robed man held his staff tightly in his hand, magical power gathering at the tip, flickering faintly. The old man clasped his hands together and muttered something, as if preparing some powerful spell.

Finally, a massive black shadow slowly emerged from the depths of the cave. It enveloped everyone, bringing an invisible pressure. Its figure was tall and majestic, like an insurmountable mountain.

Zhang Hao tried to see the shadow's form, but could only make out a vague outline. It was distorted and eerie, a terrifying sight. "Who are you?" Zhang Hao shouted. His voice echoed through the cave, carrying a hint of determination and courage.

The shadow didn't respond, but only stepped closer. Each step was heavy and powerful, causing the ground to tremble slightly.

Everyone stepped back involuntarily, their hearts filled with unknown fear. Their steps staggered, their eyes filled with panic.

At this moment, the black shadow suddenly stopped, and a low voice came from the shadow: "Why did you break in here?" The voice seemed to come from the abyss, carrying endless coldness and majesty.

Zhang Hao calmed himself down and said, "We have no intention of offending anyone. We are just looking for a way out." Although his voice was firm, he could not hide his inner nervousness.

The black shadow was silent for a moment, then slowly said, "Way out? This is not a place you can come and go as you please." Its tone was full of disdain and indifference.

The old man stepped forward and said respectfully, "I hope you can give us some advice, we have been trapped here for a long time." He bent his body slightly, showing his awe for the black shadow.

The black shadow snorted coldly: "If you want a way out, you have to pass my test." Its words hit everyone's heart like a hammer.

Everyone looked at each other, wondering what this test was. Their eyes were filled with worry and hesitation.

"This test is extremely dangerous. You must think carefully." The shadow's voice seemed to carry a hint of threat. Its aura grew stronger, making it difficult for everyone to breathe.

Zhang Hao looked at his companions around him, gritted his teeth and said, "We are willing to accept the test!" His voice was firm and powerful, and there was a resolute light in his eyes.

The black shadow laughed loudly: "Okay, let's start!" Its laughter echoed in the cave, making people shudder.

As soon as the words fell, the surrounding environment changed instantly, and everyone seemed to be in a foggy fantasy world. The fog was so thick that it was impossible to see the road ahead. All they could hear was the eerie sound of the wind and strange noises coming from nowhere.

"Everyone be careful!" Zhang Hao shouted.

The woman grabbed the corner of Zhang Hao's clothes tightly, "Where is this place?" Her voice trembled and was full of fear.

The herbalist lost his way in the fog, "I can't see you!" His cry sounded particularly miserable in the fog.

The man in black robe tried hard to cast a spell to dispel the fog, but the spell seemed to have no effect.

The old man calmly observed his surroundings and said, "Don't panic, everyone. Calm down first."

Suddenly, a gust of wind whistled past, and blurry figures appeared in the fog, rushing towards everyone...