The Countdown on the Bench

The Thunder had emptied their bullpen. If Lin tied the game, Zhou would return to the mound. “What's wrong?” Zhou asked. Lin looked down. His own assets appeared: Fatigue 23. Pain 4. Focus 58. Luck 49. A gray scale hung beside each. He seized the crimson thread only he could see. “Brother Zhou, if I tie it, don't pitch again.” “Not your decision.” “Then let me interfere once.” In his mind, Lin said, Give me his pain. The scale swung violently. 【Target pain: 87. Estimated duration: 47 minutes.】 【Insufficient assets. Available clauses: amplified pain perception; reduced focus ceiling; unknown backlash.】 【Confirm?】 “Confirm.” Agony detonated through him.