When the shadowsteel whip was swung, it crackled with power and delivered precise strikes that were impossible for anyone to dodge.
Despite the strength of Number 33’s opponent, he was forced to retreat and unable to close the distance.
In mere minutes, the opponent endured a relentless barrage of lashes. His body was marked with bloody welts.
He gritted his teeth and persevered for another two minutes before being knocked off the battle ring by Number 33’s whip.
The sight sparked cheers at the betting tables as many people jumped up excitedly.
“Haha… I won! Number 33 is the winner!”
“Heh… Awesome! I finally picked the right horse!”
“Damn it! If I’d known, I would’ve gone all in. This measly payout is hardly satisfying!”
Number 33’s win had the whole crowd cheering and celebrating. Most of the gamblers were thrilled by their newfound winnings.
But for some, there was a pang of regret for playing it too safe. When they held the celestial stones in hand, that regret only intensified.
They could’ve hit the jackpot if they hadn’t been so cautious. It was a missed chance that stung.
“Sir, you’re awesome! You said Number 33 would win, and he really did. You’re our lucky charm!”
“Hell yeah! From now on, whoever you bet on, I’ll follow. Anyone dares to doubt you, I’ll smack them!”
Number 33’s victory filled the pockets of most gamblers and boosted the man in gray’s reputation. Everyone gathered around him and praised him like he was some sort of good luck charm.
After all, predicting the winner twice in a row was no coincidence. It took real skill to pull that off.
“Whoa! Number 33 actually won!” Ruby exclaimed. “Isn’t that man in gray amazing? Just a glance, and he’s got the whole game figured out. He’s like a freaking oracle!”
Miles said excitedly, “Yes, he’s amazing! Following his lead is a guaranteed win!”
He regretted betting half of his celestial stones earlier. But in the next round, he was prepared to go all out.
“You’re right. He’s got a knack for this
and can spot winners better than us.”
Ruby nodded in agreement.
Dustin chimed in unexpectedly, “You should be satisfied with what you win. Don’t let greed cloud your judgment.
“In gambling, the biggest mistake is getting greedy. Knowing when to call it quits is the smart move.”
Miles said enthusiastically, “Dustin, you’re missing the point. This is our chance to hit the jackpot. We’ve got to seize it and stack up those celestial stones. Passing this up would haunt us forever!”
“He’s right! How can we stop when there’s a chance to earn celestial stones!” Ruby added.
The pair had gotten caught up in the moment. After scoring two wins, they were riding high. And with the prospect of more celestial stones on the horizon, they weren’t ready to call it quits.
It was a case of now or never. Once this chance slipped by, there was no second shot.
Confronted with their stubbornness, Dustin merely shook his head and stayed silent. He had already reminded them, but whatever happened next was beyond his control.
If they kept betting, they were bound to lose everything.
