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.

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

again!" Ruby

with that guy is like finding a pot of

stop betting," Crystal chimed in unexpectedly. She had a feeling that pushing their luck further might

side, we just ride the wave and rake in the winnings!" Miles waved

celestial stones like this are once in a blue moon. We can't afford to let this slip!" Ruby added

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

It would be enough for them to make a breakthrough from their current

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

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

quits once I've bagged

or regret, it's all on you." Crystal shook

winning their bets. Trying to dissuade them

flicker of hope remained within her. She wondered if this was their lucky streak and if they would keep raking in

betting would cut off their

the fourth

away with

drew a crowd around the betting table.

of celestial stones 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 emptied, she

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

the venue

the betting table were

to the man in gray. His three consecutive wins had elevated him to

they would follow without hesitation, even if