Rise of the Otherworld.

As they advanced deeper into the void, the ground shaking gradually subsided, yet an even more eerie silence permeated the surroundings. It was as if the entire world had been muted, with only the sound of their footsteps echoing through the empty space, each step a distinct, audible step, like a heartbeat. As the fog completely dissipated, a vast plaza suddenly appeared before them. It was paved with massive bluestones, each stone seemingly bearing the weight of time, engraved with mysterious runes. The runes shimmered faintly, like the twinkling stars in the night sky, as if telling an ancient and mysterious story, compelling them to explore its secrets.

In the center of the square stood a massive statue. It depicted an elderly man in a long robe, his face serene, his eyes as deep as the abyss, as if he could see through everything in the world. In his hand, he held a staff, atop which was inlaid a faintly glowing gem. This light flickered across the silent square, adding a touch of mystery to the scene.

As the crowd approached the statue, it suddenly emanated a burst of light, rippling like water, illuminating the entire square. A phantom gradually emerged from the light. It was a young monk, dressed in flowing white robes. He gazed at the crowd with a serious expression. His eyes revealed a scrutiny, as if assessing their worthyness to accept the upcoming challenge.

"You have passed the previous tests, which proves that you have a certain level of strength and wisdom. But the next test will be even more difficult." The phantom's voice echoed in the square, as loud as a bell but with an ethereal feeling, as if the voice did not come from the real world, but from the depths of distant time and space.

"What is this test?" Zhang Hao asked, stepping forward and looking directly at the phantom with a determined gaze. There was no trace of fear in his eyes, but rather a desire and determination to face the unknown challenge.

The phantom raised his hand slightly, and curtains of light rose up around the square. Like giant screens, they displayed images one after another. These images showcased a variety of complex spells and combat techniques, each movement and each flow of spiritual energy crystal clear. "Within half an hour, you must learn these spells and techniques and wield them to defeat the phantom enemies pouring forth from all sides. If you succeed, you will pass this trial." As the phantom finished speaking, a group of phantom soldiers in black armor emerged from the four corners of the square. They marched in unison, weapons tightly gripped, and exuding a murderous aura, they rapidly advanced upon the crowd.

Everyone quickly formed into battle formation, their movements in perfect sync. The mysterious man frowned slightly, his gaze scanning the phantom soldiers. He said, "First, observe the movements of these phantom enemies. Then, combined with the spells on the light screen, we'll devise a countermeasure." His voice was steady and calm, like a guiding force, reassuring everyone.

Ling Yu nodded, his eyes fixed on the approaching phantom soldiers, his gaze shone with concentration and sharpness. "These phantom soldiers are moving in unison, as if under some kind of unified command," he said, his mind rapidly pondering how to respond.

The woman looked carefully at the spell on the light screen, a gleam of light in her eyes, and said, "There is a wind-based group binding spell on it, which may be used to disrupt their formation." Her voice was crisp and firm, bringing a glimmer of hope to everyone.

The old man analyzed, "I saw an earth-based defense-enhancing spell that can strengthen our defense and deal with their attacks." His eyes were wise, and his years of experience allowed him to quickly find the key to the response.

Zhang Hao made a quick decision. His voice was firm and powerful, like a resounding horn, inspiring everyone's morale. "Lingyu, you cast the wind binding spell. Woman, you assist Lingyu and enhance the spell's effect. Mysterious man, you use earth spells to strengthen your defense. Old man, you prepare your attack spell and attack once their formation is disrupted. I'll attract their attention."

Everyone followed their instructions. Lingyu and the woman quickly formed seals with their hands, and wind-type spiritual power gathered in their hands like a rushing river. Fine beads of sweat oozed from Lingyu's forehead. He gritted his teeth and urged his spiritual power with all his strength. The woman focused on guiding her spiritual power, coordinating with Lingyu's power. A strong wind swept towards the phantom soldiers, howling as if it wanted to engulf everything. The phantom soldiers' movements became slow, their bodies bound by the wind, and the originally neat formation began to become chaotic. Their footsteps became heavy, and the weapons in their hands trembled slightly, as if they were stubbornly resisting this powerful wind.

The mysterious man cast an earth-based defensive spell around the group. He thrust his hands into the ground, muttering something. A thick earth wall rose before them, its surface gleaming with the light of runes. The runes emanated a mysterious power, as if protecting them. Like a solid fortress, the wall gave them a sense of security.

The old man swung his staff, its tip ablaze with light as he prepared a powerful attack. His eyes, gleaming with light, fixed on the chaotic phantom soldiers, awaited the perfect moment to strike. He knew full well that this strike would have to be precise and powerful to effectively inflict a blow on the phantom soldiers.

Zhang Hao, sword in hand and a resolute gaze, charged towards the phantom soldiers. His figure weaved through the enemy horde like a flash of black lightning. His sword swung, emitting streaks of cold light, which clashed with the phantom soldiers' weapons with a resounding clang. He deftly dodged the enemy's attacks while simultaneously drawing the attention of most of the phantom soldiers. However, the phantom soldiers' attacks were fierce, each swing of their weapons carrying immense force. Although Zhang Hao fought hard to resist, wounds gradually appeared on his body. Blood stained his clothes, but his eyes remained firm, showing no sign of retreat...