Timeless [Yuuki Konno X OC]

Chp. 11 - Phobia

[Sword Art Online, Floor 25, Boss Room]

[Malzeno's POV]

It was awful, the scattered particles in the air, the stench of steel in the air. I've never felt fear like it, crushing down on all of us. The boss was dead, it was over, the hell that was floor 25 was finally behind everyone, but... the ALS, Kibaou's team... they didn't stand a chance. Half their numbers were gone, reduced to code in the air. 

"What were you thinking...?" I rasped, glaring at those that remained. "You seriously thought of taking on the quarter boss alone?" None heard my anger but that was probably for the best. A hand held my shoulder, it was a pretty chill guy, Klein, he looked no happier himself but he understood. 

I gazed at my sword, how useless it was... maybe... it was true.

...

...

...

I can't save anyone.

---{------->※<-------}---

"-Zeno. Zeeeno!" My train of thought was cut clean by Yuuki now an inch from my face, caught off guard, I felt heat rise to my face before clearing my throat. "Memory lane?"

"Yeah - oh wow you're getting to used to hear that..." I blinked in surprise as she wagged her finger knowingly. Clearing my throat I got back on track with everyone now present. "Let's see; Yuuki, Jun, and Tecchi are the vanguard-" They nodded. "-Talken and Nori are the mid-guard-" They did the same. "-and myself and Siune are back-up, right?"

"I'd say you should be up front with us, but... do you have a sword?" Jun asked as I shrugged.

"Many, but I'm a ranged fighter, my coatings should help though," I tapped a few buttons as several colorful vials appeared that would normally be attached to my armour as they marvelled. "With my Mixing skill, I've created several coatings to save on skill usage but they can be fused with said skills if I want. I've got, Blast, Paralysis, Poison, and a new one, Hellfire thanks to that samurai boss," Yuuki clicked her tongue with a wink at me. 

"This also means Jun and Tecchi are in for a serious beatdown, so... have fun," I raised my thumbs with a winning grin. The redhead looked anxious as he punched his breastplate. 

"R-Right, we got this!" He was going to die first. Tecchi, poor soul, I think I put the fear of God into him. The others laughed at their expense as I put my vials away.

"Hey-hey, Zeno, can you try a sword for a bit?" Yuuki perked up, standing up straight as the laughter quietened down. "Just a test, you'll still be the rear support."

"Why...?" I asked pensively while she only leaned closer. Those damn eyes... 

"Please-please-please, just once, I won't ask again, swear!" She offered her pinky to me, but I still wasn't certain but... if it was only once. 

"F-Fine, just once," I gave a defeated shrug as she yanked my shoulders, dragging me out the door. "H-hey, these boots cost a fortune to repair, Cupcake!"

The others followed after us until we were in a wide empty space in a small garden park. I rubbed my shoulders after a shove, flicking through my menu for a bit. I really didn't like this idea, nor why she sprung it on me but I guess it's to cover any issues for realignment, not that I'd use a sword.