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.

from a mere acquaintance to their lucky charm. They considered

won again!"

like finding a pot of gold at

Crystal chimed in unexpectedly. She had a feeling that pushing

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

are once in a blue moon. We can't afford to let

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

substantial stash of celestial stones. It would be enough

say fortune favors the bold. With all these celestial

We will hit the jackpot."

I've bagged 300 celestial stones. I

If you insist, I won't stand in your way. Joy or regret, it's all on you." Crystal shook her head and

completely hooked after winning their bets. Trying to dissuade them now felt like a

if this was their lucky streak and if they would keep

from betting would cut off their

the

earlier bets walked away with a

table. Spectators were eager to participate

of celestial stones was simply irresistible. With many winners parading their success, these newcomers were eager to get their

at the growing crowd of gamblers. Even though the second crate

these people would increase their wagers. She was confident

approached, the

gamblers at the betting table were practically buzzing with

eyes were glued to the man in gray. His three

choice, they would follow without hesitation,