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

again!"

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

time to stop betting," Crystal chimed in

our side, we just ride the

once in a blue moon.

In

celestial stones. It would be enough

safe. They say fortune favors the bold. With all these celestial stones laid

our lucky day. We will hit

quits once I've

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

and Miles were completely hooked after winning their bets. Trying to dissuade them now felt like

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

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

later, the

earlier bets walked away with a

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

celestial stones was simply irresistible. With many

smile at the growing crowd of gamblers. Even though the second crate of celestial stones

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

fifth round approached, the venue

gamblers at the betting table were practically buzzing with

the man in gray. His three consecutive

without hesitation, even if it seemed