Rise of the Otherworld.

As they went deeper into the cave, they discovered some strange symbols and patterns on the ground, like some kind of ancient text or spell. The symbols had smooth, winding lines, as if telling the vicissitudes of time and mysterious past events.

"What does this mean?" the herbalist couldn't help but ask. His voice echoed in the cave, trembling slightly. He squatted down and tried to touch the symbols with his hands, but he drew back the moment he was about to touch them, as if afraid of triggering some unknown danger.

Zhang Hao squatted down and observed the symbols carefully. "I have never seen such a pattern before. Maybe it is related to the secret of this cave." His brows were furrowed, his eyes were focused and sharp, trying to find a clue from these complex lines.

The woman glanced around nervously. "There's something strange going on here, everyone be careful," her voice trembling slightly, her hands unconsciously clenching the corners of her clothes. The darkness in the cave seemed to have a life of its own, quietly approaching them, sending a chill down her spine.

The old man frowned and fell into deep thought, "These symbols may be a guide, or perhaps a warning." His eyes were deep, as if he could see through these symbols into the distant past.

At that moment, a deep roar emanated from the depths of the cave. It sounded like the voice of an ancient beast, filled with boundless rage and majesty, causing pain in everyone's eardrums. The sound rolled in like muffled thunder, reverberating back and forth in the narrow cavern, terrifying everyone.

"Oh no! I'm afraid there's danger!" The black-robed man gripped the dagger tightly, his body tense. His eyes were filled with vigilance, like a cheetah about to pounce on its prey.

The little girl unconsciously moved closer to the beast, as if seeking its protection. The beast lowered its head, shielding the little girl with its body, and let out a deep roar.

They stood back to back, looking warily in the direction of the sound. Their heartbeats were especially clear in the silent cave, and every breath was filled with tension and anxiety.

Suddenly, a strong wind swept in from the depths of the cave, mixed with sand and stones, making it impossible for everyone to open their eyes. The wind howled as if it was going to swallow them all up.

When the storm subsided, a massive figure appeared before them. It was an even larger monster, emanating a dark aura that seemed to devour all the surrounding light. Its skin was as rough as rock, covered in strange patterns. Its blood-red eyes stared at them intently, filled with hostility and a desire to kill.

"What kind of monster is this?" the herbalist exclaimed, his voice shrill with fear, and his legs involuntarily stepped back.

Zhang Hao gritted his teeth and said, "No matter what it is, let's fight it first!" With that, he rushed towards the monster with his sword. His figure was like a flash of lightning in the darkness, full of fearless courage.

The woman also cast a spell, and beams of light shot towards the monster. The light streaked through the darkness like a meteor, illuminating the monster's hideous face.

The old man swung his staff, unleashing a powerful magical force. The shockwaves of that force blasted towards the monster, sending a roaring sound through the cave.

The black-robed figure flashed, circled behind the monster, and attacked. His dagger flashed coldly in the darkness as it stabbed the monster's vitals.

The giant beast was not to be outdone and joined the others in fighting the monster. It opened its mouth, spewed out a stream of fire, and rushed towards the monster.

However, the monster was so powerful that the attacks from everyone did not cause much damage to it. Its body was as hard as steel, and it easily withstood the attacks from everyone.

The monster swung its massive claws, sending Zhang Hao flying. Zhang Hao slammed heavily against the cave wall, blood pouring from his mouth. His body slid down to the ground, unable to rise for a moment.

"Zhang Hao!" The woman was extremely anxious. She wanted to rush over to check on Zhang Hao's injuries, but she didn't dare to leave the fighting position.

A glimmer of determination flashed in the little girl's eyes. She stroked the beast again, muttering something to herself. Her voice was clear and urgent, as if she was conveying some important message to the beast.

The beast glowed brightly, its strength seemingly enhanced. Its hair stood on end, its eyes burning with rage, and it pounced on the monster, engaging in a fierce battle.

With the combined efforts of everyone and the giant beast, the monster gradually lost the upper hand. Its movements became sluggish, and multiple wounds appeared on its body.

Just when everyone thought they were about to win, the monster suddenly emitted a strong light and then disappeared without a trace.

"What...what's going on?" The herbalist looked bewildered. His eyes searched the darkness, trying to find any trace of the monster.

Everyone looked at each other, filled with doubts.

At this moment, the light in the cave began to grow stronger, illuminating the entire cave. The symbols and patterns on the walls seemed to come alive, flowing and changing...