"I wanted to talk with you." (Robert)
President Robert had no food with him even though he was in the cafeteria.
Did he already finish eating, or is he yet to begin?
"What can I do for you?" (Eugene)
Could it be another invitation to join the swordsmanship club?
"Don't be so formal. However, I'll get straight to the point. I'm planning to challenge the Deus Discipline on Floor 200, and I'm recruiting a temporary party." (Robert)
"The Deus Discipline on Floor 200… That's a rematch, isn't it?" (Eugene)
Though I hadn't seen it firsthand, there was a rumor that the swordsmanship club's first team had recently failed the Deus Discipline.
"Embarrassingly, yes. I judged that it might be difficult to clear Floor 200 with just the swordsmanship club." (Eugene)
President Robert smiled bitterly as he spoke.
"So you're forming a temporary exploration party. But why me?" (Eugene)
I wasn't particularly close to President Robert.
"As the president of the swordsmanship club, I can't exactly ask the martial arts or spearmanship clubs for help. That's why someone like you, Eugene-kun, who isn't affiliated with any combat club, is a good candidate. This isn't about getting you to join the swordsmanship club; it's strictly a temporary unit. It's not a bad offer, is it?" (Robert)
"Well…" (Eugene)
Honestly, I thought I'd take on the Floor 200 much later.
But if it's with a joint team that includes the swordsmanship club, the chances of success are significantly higher.
"What do you think?" (Robert)
President Robert looked at me expectantly. Judging from the fact that he approached me personally, he must be having trouble recruiting people.
"Understood. However, I'm only speaking for myself. I can't say what Sara and Sumire will decide." (Eugene)
"Of course. I won't force anyone who isn't interested. And having just you on board will be a great help, Eugene-kun." (Robert)
He seems to value me quite highly.
But one thing bothered me.
"The 18th of the swordsmanship club specializes in coordinated group swordsmanship, right? Wouldn't an outsider like me just get in the way?" (Eugene)
Back in military school, I learned how to operate in units. However, ever since enrolling at the Lykeion Magic Academy, I have mostly operated solo or in small groups.
I hesitated about joining a large group like the swordsmanship club.
"You don't have to worry about that. In fact, the first team of the swordsmanship club has a slight bias toward offense. They're strong when attacking, but if their formation breaks, it takes time for them to recover. That's why we wanted someone like you, Eugene-kun, who can both attack and defend solo." (Robert)
"I see." (Eugene)
So I'd essentially be part of a mobile unit.
That wouldn't be a problem.
"We're planning to depart in seven days. The meeting point will be the first floor of the Zenith Tower. I'll be waiting for you." (Robert)
With that, President Robert left.
(The Deus Discipline on Floor 200…) (Eugene)
I decided to talk to Sara and Sumire first. I set out to find the two of them after finishing my meal.