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.

he had transcended from a mere acquaintance to their lucky charm. They considered him a true bringer

again!" Ruby beamed

Trusting my instincts always pays off! Betting with that guy is like finding a pot of gold at the end of a

we've made enough for now. It's time to stop betting," Crystal chimed in unexpectedly. She had a feeling

Crystal. We're just getting started here. With our lucky charm on our side, we just ride the wave and rake in the winnings!"

in a blue moon. We can't afford to let this slip!"

and advised, "But let's not get too greedy. In games like these,

of celestial stones. It would be enough for them

playing it safe. They say fortune favors the bold. With all these celestial stones laid out before us, turning a blind eye would be a huge mistake,"

We will hit the jackpot." Ruby looped arms with her sister and smiled

call it quits once I've bagged 300 celestial stones. I swear I won't be

way. Joy or

after winning their bets. Trying to dissuade

was their

from betting would cut off their potential earnings. Hence, she stopped

minutes later, the fourth round

away

a crowd around the betting table. Spectators were eager to participate in

of celestial stones was simply irresistible. With many winners

growing crowd of gamblers. Even though the second crate of celestial stones

she hoped these people would increase their wagers. She was confident that soon

the fifth round approached, the venue buzzed with renewed

the betting table were practically buzzing

man in gray. His three consecutive

they would follow without hesitation, even