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.

won again!" Ruby beamed with

guy is like finding a pot of gold at

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

our side, we just ride the wave and rake in the

a blue moon. We can't afford to let this slip!" Ruby added

not get too greedy. In games like these, regret usually

of celestial stones. It would be enough for them to make a

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

We will hit

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

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

after winning their bets. Trying to dissuade

wondered if this was their lucky streak and if

would cut off their potential earnings. Hence, she

the fourth

away

that drew a crowd around the betting table. Spectators

was simply irresistible. With many winners parading

Even though the second crate of celestial stones

their wagers. She was confident that soon she

approached, the venue buzzed with renewed

gamblers at the betting table were practically

gray. His

of his choice, they would follow without hesitation, even