Chapter 61: Hypothetical Dungeon Criss

"What special skills and experience do you possess that make you ideal for this job?" the elderly woman asked, leading the interview.

"I consider myself a seasoned warrior who knows how to handle pressure," Warden replied. "My skills are suitable for my rank, though I admit they are lacking in some key areas."

"And which areas are those?"

"Movement, predominantly," Warden answered promptly. "While my coordination is commendable, I lack movement abilities, making me slower on my feet."

"Wouldn't you consider that a vulnerability against someone with superior speed?" the woman probed, focusing on his admitted weakness.

"I wouldn't classify it as a vulnerability," Warden clarified. "It certainly puts me at a disadvantage if my opponent knows how to leverage their speed. Even if I'm stronger, should they choose to flee, catching them might prove challenging. However, the role is to protect the young prospects, not to chase down formidable criminals."

The examiners shared a glance.

"Imagine you're in a dark dungeon with twenty students, a healer, and another combat instructor," the middle-aged man proposed, "and you find yourselves surrounded by a pack of shadow stalkers. What would you do?"

"What exactly are shadow stalkers?" Warden inquired.

"You're not familiar with them?" the man frowned. "How do you intend to perform your duties if you're unaware of notorious creatures like shadow stalkers?"

"I would, of course, inquire about potential threats before entering a dungeon," Warden explained. "I'd also do my research. If something were still unclear, I'd consult the other instructor present."

They continued to pose hypothetical dungeon scenario questions, the kind most would not delve deeper into. Warden avoided such oversights, seeking details about each scenario and proposing the most rational solutions.

When facing aerial adversaries, his strategy involved moving to denser parts of the forest to restrict their flight advantage. In completely open terrains, his plan was to utilize all available resources and attempt an escape if necessary.

As the interview continued, Warden estimated he had been there for roughly fifteen minutes, significantly longer than other candidates. He wondered if this extended duration was due to the gaps in his background or possibly the others' ineptitude in providing satisfactory responses. Regardless, he answered each question to the best of his ability.

After four or five more scenarios like this, Warden couldn't help but say, "With all due respect, if all dungeon situations are as perilous as these for the students, I'm quite certain no combat instructor could ensure their complete safety."

"These scenarios represent only unforeseen situations," the elderly woman explained kindly. "For the initial years, we predominantly utilize tamed dungeons for the students' training."

"From all your responses, it's fairly evident," the elderly man spoke up for the first time, "that your knowledge of dungeon creatures is somewhat limited, yet you claim to be a seasoned fighter. This discrepancy is puzzling."

"I suppose I haven't been formally educated like most students at your academy," Warden conceded. "However, I'm committed to learning what I'm currently lacking, regardless of whether I secure this job."

"That's commendable," the charming woman said. "With an astute mind like yours, I believe you could become a valuable asset to our academy in just half a year."

"I believe we've covered everything," the elderly woman announced. "Do you have any questions for us?"

Seizing the opportunity, Warden asked, "Do you have any reservations regarding my qualifications?"

Since the question was directed at the elderly woman, she replied, "While your lack of a verifiable background is a concern, conducting a background check is not beyond our capabilities. Our primary concern lies with your capabilities. If you are as competent as you claim and show a willingness to learn, then we see no issue."

"The position is akin to an internship," the charming woman added, "where many do not make it through, but those who do often emerge as strong candidates for the field they choose to pursue. It's not uncommon for some to eventually secure full-time professorships at the academy."