However, this defeat spurred Praline, who had already grown somewhat complacent. It forced her to train desperately, break through her limits, and free herself from her reliance on Fish-Man talents. Aside from Conqueror's Haki, which she could never awaken due to her personality and experiences, she was able to contend with S-rank powerhouses in every aspect.
Yet even such a powerful Praline suffered another defeat in the second World Martial Arts Tournament. Li Xiao of the Flower Kingdom effortlessly crushed every opponent and claimed the championship, making the name of the Thirteen Protectors renowned throughout the world!
But this time, Praline was completely convinced by her defeat, because Li Xiao was still an underage boy!
Moreover, Red-Haired Shanks, who had lost an arm in the previous tournament, still displayed strength fully befitting an S-rank powerhouse. This piqued the interest of Hawk Eyes Mihawk, the World's Greatest Swordsman, who had originally given up on fighting him, and he came to compete as well. The level of this tournament was even higher than the last.
Yet Li Xiao, still underage, was like an incomprehensible monster. He defeated both of these world-recognized S-rank powerhouses in succession, becoming the youngest S-rank powerhouse in the history of this world—if Mousse was not counted by biological age!
"His talent is even more terrifying than Mother's. He is likewise naturally invulnerable and immensely strong, yet he possesses agility and comprehension Mother lacks. On top of that, he has the determination to win a fight at any cost. Without Devil Fruit abilities, I'm afraid no one in this world can beat this kid."
Mousse, who had tracked and observed him throughout the competition at Li Dayong's request, gave him an even higher evaluation.
This little monster had repeatedly broken through in the midst of battle during the tournament,