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 him a true bringer

We won again!" Ruby beamed

instincts always pays off! Betting with that guy is like finding a pot of gold

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

Crystal. We're just getting started here. With our lucky charm on our side, we just ride the wave

Opportunities to earn celestial stones like this are once in a blue

not get too greedy. In games

already amassed a substantial stash of celestial stones. It would be enough for them to make a

these celestial stones laid out before us, turning a blind

We will hit the jackpot." Ruby looped arms

it quits once I've bagged 300

way. Joy or regret, it's all on you." Crystal shook her head and dropped the

and Miles were completely hooked after winning their bets. Trying to dissuade

this was their lucky streak and if they would keep

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

the

of earlier bets walked away with a

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

was simply irresistible. With many winners parading their success, these

help but smile at the growing crowd of gamblers. Even though the second crate of celestial stones had been

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

the fifth round approached, the venue buzzed

the betting table were practically buzzing with

to the man in gray. His three consecutive wins had elevated him to near-legendary status among the

they would follow without hesitation, even if it seemed like