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.

to their lucky charm. They considered him a true bringer of

again!" Ruby beamed

is like finding a

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

our side, we just ride the

a blue moon. We

not get too greedy. In games like these, regret

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

you're always playing it safe. They say fortune favors the bold. With all these celestial stones laid out before us, turning a blind eye

lucky day. We will hit the jackpot."

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

your way. Joy or

Ruby and Miles were completely hooked after winning their bets.

was their lucky streak and if they would

betting would cut off their potential

later, the

walked away with a haul of celestial

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

the allure of celestial stones was simply irresistible. With many winners parading their success, these newcomers were

smile at the growing crowd of gamblers. Even though

She was confident that

approached, the venue buzzed

at the betting table were practically buzzing with

eyes were glued to the man in gray. His three consecutive wins had

they would follow without hesitation,