Abigail explained, "The more the merrier, right? I'm just here to amp up the excitement for everyone."After all, betting adds some thrill to the mix. Let's have fun with a few rounds while we watch the tournament matches. Doesn't that sound like a blast?"She was busy counting the treasures handed over by the surrounding martial artists. Despite her pleasant words, she couldn't hide her greedy expression.After all, she was a bookie, not running a charity. There had to be some perks involved, or else why would she be so eager?"I'm just watching your back, kid. I don't want you to lose all those celestial stones you brought along in a bet," Dustin reminded him.In a casino, the odds were always stacked in favor of the house against the players. Even with a slight edge, the house always won as long as there were plenty of betting rounds.So, the casino wasn't sweating bullets about players pocketing some cash, but its biggest concern was an empty house.But with Abigail's bettin

Gambling was a slippery slope, especially once they tasted victory. For those lacking restraint, it was easy to get sucked in."Congratulations on your wins! Here's your stash of celestial stones." Abigail beamed as she handed over the winnings."I just bet with my darksteel sword and get five celestial stones, right? Can I redeem it?" Ruby asked."Sure." Abigail nodded and motioned for someone to retrieve Ruby's sword, which had been used as a bet earlier."Not so fast!" Miles intervened just as Ruby reached for her sword. "Ruby, hold up. The real action is yet to unfold. "If you redeem now, we'll have less to play with later, meaning fewer wins. Let's stack up some more celestial stones first, then redeem your sword. Sounds good?""Hmm…" Ruby hesitated.He reassured her, "What's the matter? Trust me, betting with me is like finding cash on the sidewalk. Win a few more rounds, and we'll have enough stones to make a breakthrough.""Okay, Miles, I'll go along with your suggesti

At that moment, Abigail's voice rang out.After the second round of betting, many martial artists were drawn over. Initially, there were bystanders just there to watch. But as they got caught up in the excitement, they found it intriguing. Eventually, they decided to jump in and participate.As more and more of them racked up celestial stones, those who hadn't joined in yet were getting envious.After all, chances to snag celestial stones were rare. So, when the opportunity finally presented itself, they couldn't resist.As a result, the betting pool attracted an increasing number of gamblers. Abigail kept accumulating rare treasures, even as the celestial stones in her box decreased. Regardless, she remained content and unfazed as long as people were willing to bet."The contestants are in the battle ring, and the third round is about to begin. Hurry up and get those bets in before it's too late!" Abigail continued to shout.Nearly half of the crowd relied on their gut insti

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 intensi

Number 24 folded his arms and sized up Number 95 with scorn and disbelief.He couldn't help but scoff at the sight of the skinny, hobbling kid stepping into the ring. He felt that Number 95 had underestimated the challenge ahead."Although you're tall and muscular, it doesn't mean you can beat me," Number 95 stated flatly."I can't beat you?" Number 24 chuckled.He taunted, "Kid, do you even know what you're saying? With your twig-like frame, I could squash you with one hand!""Really? Why don't you give it a try?" Number 95 remained unfazed as he stared at Number 24 without flinching.Despite his smaller stature, he emitted a strong presence."Fine. It seems like you won't get it until I school you!" Number 24 sneered as he drew his long blade out of its sheath.Meanwhile, Number 95 remained unfazed as he casually leaned on his crutches."What are you waiting for? Draw your weapon!" Number 24 pointed his blade at him aggressively."I don't need a weapon to deal with you," Nu