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.

again!" Ruby beamed

is like finding a pot of gold at the

betting," Crystal chimed in

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

earn celestial stones like this are once in a blue moon. We

greedy. In games like these, regret

had already amassed a substantial stash of celestial stones. It would be enough for them to make a breakthrough from their current levels if

celestial stones laid out before us, turning a blind eye would be

Today's our lucky day. We will hit the jackpot." Ruby looped arms with her

quits once I've

in your way. Joy or regret, it's all on you."

hooked after winning their bets. Trying to dissuade them now felt like a

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

from betting would cut off their potential earnings.

minutes later, the fourth

walked away with a haul of

that drew a crowd around the betting table. Spectators

simply irresistible. With many

crowd of gamblers. Even though

She was confident that soon she would reclaim all the celestial

approached, the venue buzzed

at the betting table were practically buzzing

moment, all eyes were glued to the man in gray. His

of his choice, they would follow without hesitation, even