Theodore

In the Curator's Office, only Nain and Theodore were left. Theodore whispered:

"This is too dangerous. While his ability to absorb Nectar is certainly impressive, we know nothing about his origins or the nature of his abilities. It would not do to allow him to become a Warden so easily. It won't be too late to make a decision after judging according to procedures and rules.”
"That makes sense."

After hearing what Theodore said, Nain thought for a moment and then spoke:

"Theodore, as you know, Nectar is an evil magic that takes life and grants power to monsters. It is the most powerful weapon of the Moon Shadow Cult. Their ability to manipulate the Nectar is what Pharos need to be most wary of."

Of course Theodore can see this point. Countless of companions lost their lives to Nectar. They died in agony as their lives were devoured and their souls were diminished.

"His ability to absorb Nectar is an unprecedentedly powerful. This will be a huge advantage in the battle with the Moon Shadow Cult... no, in the battle with the witches. The uncertainty of his identity or the nature of his power pales in comparison."

Nain said to Theodore in a firm tone:

"As the Curator, I must gain more leverage for Pharos. Even if those stakes are dangerous and radical.”
"...I see."

Theodore nodded slightly and turned to leave. Nain called him:

"Theodore, do you remember? When you left Pereus, I went to look for you. To bring you to Pharos."
"Yes, I remember."
"I brought you to Pharos for a day like this. I need someone who can stay by my side and speak frankly when I'm trying to cross a dangerous bridge. Seeing you today, I feel that I made the right choice."

Nain smiled at Theodore who was leaving.

"Thank you for your advice today. I will keep it in mind."

In Pharos, people have two opinions about Instructor Theodore.

Some see him as a man of unwavering principles and discipline. Others think he's stubborn and inflexible.

Both are true. And that's exactly why I respect him. Because no matter what people say, he never wavers—he stays true to the path he chose.

As for how a rookie Warden sees him? He's a demon. A full-fledged demon instructor.

I bet every Warden trained by Theodore would agree. You have no idea how brutal his training is. Sometimes, fighting monsters feels easier in comparison.

New Warden recruits always arrive in Pharos full of hope. The moment they receive their compass, their hearts nearly explode with excitement. After all, they've officially become part of the legendary Pharos. But reality hits fast. Once Theodore starts training them, all illusions shatter.

He tailors grueling training programs for each recruit and drills them relentlessly. Some even say collapsing during training is practically a rite of passage in Pharos.

Yet, no one resents the harsh regimen. Why? Because Theodore trains alongside us. He says even instructors aren't exempt, so he completes every drill with us.

There's only one way to finish training. Pass Theodore's test.

Block his attacks.

Break through his defenses.

Only then can you call yourself a true Warden. Most people take years to reach that level. Of course, there are a few monsters who clear the test in record time. They're just as terrifying as Theodore himself. Best to steer clear of them.

Oh, wait… this interview was anonymous, right?

… No?

Application for Disciplinary Action
Target: Trolley
Written by: Theodore
Cause: Violation of the Pharos Commission System

Event Summary
Researcher Trolley, in an attempt to meet a research deadline, bypassed proper reporting channels and made a personal request to a Warden. This was a serious breach of protocol. Due to inadequate quest assessment, the assigned was nearly put in danger.
This misconduct harmed both the organization's credibility and safety. To prevent similar incidents, disciplinary action is requested.

Note:
While this was a violation, the researcher's work has been highly beneficial to others. Additionally, thanks to the Warden's intervention, a dangerous monster was prevented from manifesting. Please take these factors into account when determining disciplinary measures.