Chapter 164 -164-The Ice Maiden
The third figure—this one was unlike the others. It felt like a form of transcendence, a pure elevation. Compared to the first and second apparitions, this one radiated a terrifying level of strength, as if it had undergone a qualitative transformation.
"We all underestimated him," a voice murmured among the crowd. "From defeating the first figure to vanquishing the second, he spent barely any time. At this pace alone, he’s already created a miracle."
"I won’t deny his potential," another replied solemnly. "But that third apparition is in a league of its own. It’s a complete metamorphosis."
Countless ancient beings whispered amongst themselves. These were not ordinary onlookers—they were elites, the apex predators of countless races across the Realms. And yet, even they found it difficult to conceal the awe and apprehension in their gazes as they fixated on the eighth-tier region.
To them, Owen’s combat prowess had already defied natural law, verging on godhood. But this third figure—it was a ceiling. An unshakable shackle that crushed even their most ambitious fantasies.
Yet regardless of their inner thoughts, all eyes remained locked on the eighth-tier region. This duel, regardless of its outcome, would be immortalized in history.
After all, these very spectators—descendants of powerful bloodlines, inheritors of countless legacies—had attempted this trial before. Most had barely managed to defeat the first two figures. None had ever bested the third.
"That third figure... is not just a guardian. It’s a test of the heavens," a woman murmured. She held in her hands a semi-transparent crystal that pulsed with soft light. Her expression was grave. "Even though Owen surpassing us in potential would be hard to accept... I truly hope he can break through that shackle."
Her words made Titan and the others stir visibly, expressions of shock rippling across their faces.
It wasn’t that no one had ever succeeded in this domain. According to ancient records of Wraith City—an enigmatic fortress with roots buried deep in forgotten eras—there had indeed been one figure in the distant past who had succeeded. That individual had triggered a storm so tremendous that its echoes still haunted the upper planes.
If Owen succeeded here, would he not be the second to challenge destiny itself?