An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

"You... You used poison?" Number 24 clenched his teeth. His face burned with fury and disbelief.

He tried to push himself up, but he felt weak. Even wiggling his fingers felt like a Herculean task.

"In the battle ring, fair play reigns supreme," Number 95 said calmly. "Even resorting to tactics like poison or hidden weapons is deemed acceptable within the rules."

He added, "Moreover, I wasn't out for blood. I just want to incapacitate you momentarily. If my aim had been lethal, you'd be dead already."

"Why you—" Number 24 was left speechless. Although he was reluctant to admit defeat, he begrudgingly accepted it.

The rules didn't forbid the use of poison, and his opponent's frontal assault couldn't be deemed an ambush.

His failure to defend himself boiled down to his own lack of strength.

"This round winner is contestant number 95!" With Number 24 incapacitated, the referee swiftly announced the match's outcome.

Soon, the venue erupted in applause.

"Haha... We did it again! Another win in the bag!"

"One move, and it's game over. Contestant number 95 is awesome!"

"When it comes to being impressive, it's gotta be our lucky charm! He calls the shots, and bam, there's our winner. Truly amazing!"

Cheers and excitement filled the air at the betting table as everyone reveled in the moment.

Those who had placed their bets on contestant number 95 were celebrating. Initially, they doubted the man in gray. But now, they held him in absolute trust and admiration.

them, he had transcended from a mere acquaintance to their lucky

We won again!" Ruby beamed with

with that guy is like finding a pot of gold at

It's time to stop betting," Crystal chimed in unexpectedly. She had a feeling that pushing

we just ride the

are once in a blue

advised, "But let's not get too greedy. In

be enough for them to make a breakthrough from their current levels

playing it safe. They say fortune favors the bold. With all these celestial stones laid

our lucky day. We will hit the jackpot." Ruby looped arms with her sister

quits once I've bagged

or regret,

completely hooked after winning their bets. Trying to

a flicker of hope remained within her. She wondered if this was their lucky streak and if they would keep raking in

cut off their potential earnings. Hence,

later, the fourth round

winners of earlier bets walked away

the betting table. Spectators were eager to participate in the thrill and to try their

irresistible. With many winners parading their success, these newcomers were

smile at the growing crowd of gamblers. Even though

increase their wagers. She was confident that soon she would reclaim all

round approached, the

the gamblers at the betting table were practically buzzing with

gray. His three

his choice, they would follow without hesitation, even if it