"How could this be?" When Yamato realized that her legs had been completely frozen solid, she simply could not believe what was happening before her eyes. Her body stiffened instantly.
However, just as she was overwhelmed with shock, the ice encasing Moke suddenly let out a crisp cracking sound, followed by the entire block collapsing with a thunderous crash.
Moke stepped out of the shattered ice, a teasing smile on his face as his gaze remained fixed on Yamato, as though he were admiring an amusing toy.
He said softly, "Hmm... you're quite strong, but it seems you're still lacking when it comes to combat technique.
"Or rather, when facing opponents who aren't Zoan users, your actual combat experience is far too limited."
Before his words had even faded, Moke paused briefly before adding, "I suppose aside from sparring with those people from the Beast Pirates, you've hardly had the chance to encounter other kinds of enemies!"
Hearing that, Yamato froze for a moment. Just as Moke had said, over the years, she had experienced countless fierce battles, and the overwhelming majority of her opponents had been her old man and the brutal subordinates under his command.
Moreover, without exception, they all possessed the immense power granted by Zoan Devil Fruits. Their fights generally consisted of direct, head-on clashes of brute force.
Recalling her past battles, Yamato silently pondered, Had I always relied too much on my physical strength and Haki, leaving me helpless when confronted with situations like this?
It seems I'll have to seriously consider how to deal with different types of opponents from now on...
"Hmph..." Yamato could not help letting out a cold snort, her voice filled with obvious dissatisfaction and unwillingness.
Clearly, although she had been defeated, her heart remained full of pride and stubbornness.