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.

their

won again!" Ruby

that guy is like finding a pot of gold at the end of

we've made enough for now. It's time to stop betting," Crystal chimed in unexpectedly. She had a feeling that pushing their luck further might end in

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

celestial stones like this are once in a blue moon. We

In games like these, regret usually sets in when it's too

be enough

say fortune favors the bold. With all these celestial stones laid out before us, turning a blind eye

We will hit the jackpot." Ruby looped arms with

added, "I promise that I'll call it quits once I've bagged

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

were completely hooked after winning their bets. Trying

if this was their lucky streak and if they

betting would cut off

later, the

away

of interest that drew a crowd around the betting table. Spectators were eager to participate in the thrill and to try

the allure of celestial stones was simply irresistible. With many

Even though

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

the venue buzzed with

the gamblers at the betting table

man in gray. His three

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