Theodore

In the director's office, Theodore, left alone with Nain, spoke in a low voice.

"It's too dangerous. Certainly, the ability to absorb Nectar is remarkable. But we don't know the origin or the true nature of that person's abilities. We can't accept such a person as a Warden so easily. It's not too late to decide after judging according to procedures and regulations."
"You have a point."

Nain, who was pondering Theodore's words, opened his mouth.

"Theodore. As you know, the unholy Mana that takes life and empowers the Voidspawn, Nectar, is the greatest weapon of the Grand Order of the Moonshade. Their ability to handle Nectar is something even Pharos is most cautious about."

There's no way he wouldn't know. Many comrades lost their lives because of Nectar. In the agony of being drained of life, of having their souls eroded.

"The power of that person who absorbs Nectar is an unprecedentedly strong ability. In the fight against the Grand Order of the Moonshade... no, against the Witch, it can be a significant advantage. Compared to that, uncertainties about identity or the nature of abilities are trivial matters."

Nain spoke to Theodore in a firm voice.

"As the director, I must hold many cards for Pharos. Even if they are dangerous and radical."
"...Understood."

As Theodore lightly bowed his head and turned to leave, Nain called out to him.

"Theodore. Do you remember? When you left Pereus, I came to find you. To bring you to Pharos."
"Yes. I remember."
"The reason I called you to Pharos was for days like today. Because I needed someone by my side to speak frankly when I was about to cross a dangerous bridge. Seeing you today, it seems my choice that day wasn't wrong."

Nain gave a small smile to Theodore as he left.

"Thank you for today's advice. I will engrave your words deep in my heart."

In Pharos, there are two perspectives on Instructor Theodore.

A person who values principles and discipline. A person who is inflexible and rigid.

Both are true. That's why I think Instructor Theodore is an amazing person. He pursues his path unwaveringly despite what others say.

How do new Wardens view the instructor? He's a ghost. A ghost instructor.

Any Warden who has trained under Instructor Theodore would agree. Do you know how tough his training is? It's to the point where facing a Voidspawn seems easier than undergoing his training.

New Wardens enter Pharos full of hope. When they first receive their Compass, their hearts feel like they might burst. Because they've become part of the famous Pharos. But after training with Instructor Theodore, they soon realize the reality.

Instructor Theodore devises training plans tailored to each individual. And he thoroughly instills that plan into the new Wardens. It's said that collapsing during his training is a rite of passage in Pharos.

Yet no one shows resentment towards such rigorous training. Why? Because Instructor Theodore trains with us. He always participates in all training, saying that even as an instructor, there are no exceptions.

There is a way to stop the training. It's by passing Instructor Theodore's test.

Block the instructor's attack.

Break through the instructor's defense.

Only by succeeding in this can one truly become a Warden. It takes years for most to surpass this stage. Of course, some pass quickly. They're tough ones. Like Instructor Theodore. You should keep your distance from such people.

Oh, but this interview is anonymous, right?

...It's not?

Disciplinary Request
Subject: Trolley
Author: Theodore
Reason: Violation of Pharos Commission System
Incident Overview
Researcher Trolley made a personal request to the Warden without reporting to the superiors to meet the research deadline. This action is a serious matter that disregards procedures and has been confirmed to have almost put the requested party in danger due to the lack of proper preliminary investigation for the mission.
Such behavior undermines the trust and safety of the organization, and disciplinary action is requested to prevent recurrence of similar incidents.
P.S.
While it is true that the incident violated procedures, the researcher's work has greatly benefited other researchers, and as a result, the Warden's actions helped prevent the emergence of a threatening Voidspawn. Therefore, it is requested that this be considered during disciplinary proceedings.