Can’t Win Me Back by Ginger Sue

"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

won again!" Ruby

like finding a pot of gold at

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

just getting started here. With our lucky charm on our side, we just ride the wave and rake in the winnings!" Miles waved

in a blue moon. We can't afford to let

get too greedy. In games like these,

would be enough

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

Today's our lucky day. We will hit the jackpot." Ruby

once I've bagged 300 celestial stones.

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

Miles were completely hooked after winning their bets. Trying to dissuade them

hope remained within her. She wondered if this was their lucky streak and if

that stopping them from betting would cut off their

the

earlier bets walked away with a haul of celestial

interest that drew a crowd around the betting table. Spectators were eager

stones was simply irresistible. With many winners parading their success, these newcomers were eager to

the growing crowd of gamblers. Even though the second crate of celestial stones had been emptied,

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

the venue buzzed with renewed

the betting table were practically buzzing with

eyes were glued to the man in gray. His three consecutive wins had elevated him to near-legendary status among

choice, they would follow without hesitation, even if