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.

a mere acquaintance to their lucky charm. They considered him

again!" Ruby beamed

always pays off! Betting with that guy is like finding a pot

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

we just

celestial stones like this are once in a blue

too greedy. In games like

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

fortune favors the bold. With all these celestial

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

call it quits once I've

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

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

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

them from betting would cut off their

later, the fourth

walked away with

crowd around the betting table. Spectators were eager to participate in

all, the allure of celestial stones was simply irresistible. With many

Even though the second

hoped these people would increase their wagers. She was confident

the venue

betting table were practically buzzing with

His three consecutive wins had elevated him to

would follow without hesitation,