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. They considered him a true bringer

again!" Ruby

Trusting my instincts always pays off! Betting with that guy is like finding a pot of gold at the

we've made enough for now. It's time to stop betting," Crystal chimed in unexpectedly.

lucky charm on our side, we just ride the

like this are once in a blue

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

celestial stones. It would be enough for them to make a breakthrough from their current levels

you're always playing it safe. They say fortune favors the bold. With all these celestial stones laid

our lucky day. We will hit the jackpot." Ruby looped arms

it quits once I've

won't stand in your way. Joy or regret, it's all on

winning their

if this was

betting would cut off their

later, the fourth

walked away with a haul of

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

irresistible. With many winners parading their success, these newcomers

gamblers. Even though the second

She was confident that soon she would reclaim all the

fifth round approached, the venue buzzed with renewed

the betting table were

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

choice, they would follow without hesitation, even