Ethel
Basic File
Personal Info
An exceptional all-rounder, with a particular talent for handling various mechanisms and traps.
Free-spirited, confident, and decisive, she possesses a strong adventurous spirit and values the process far more than the results.
When she first became active as an Explorer, she received numerous offers that most would dream of, but turned them all down.
Perhaps her personal philosophy didn't align with the result-oriented focus of most teams, or maybe the famous lone wolf simply wasn't accustomed to being part of a team.
In any case, with her remarkable skills and versatility, she would undoubtedly be a tremendous asset to any team, should she ever choose to join one.
Chronicles
Miss Ethel is basically an idol for us solo Explorers. When it comes to achievements in solo exploration, few can compare.
Harsh environments, clever traps... Nothing can hold her! Even places rumored to be inescapable? She just waltzes through them and comes out smiling!
Her skills are truly inspiring. One day, I'm gonna be just like her—someone who can handle any danger that comes my way!
— An Explorer
Honestly, she did try working with a few crews once, including ours.
But our coordination and working habits just didn’t quite align. Sure, those things can be adjusted over time—but what really wore us out was her never-ending urge to explore.
No matter how successful a mission was, she'd jump right into the next one. The rest of my crew and I just couldn't match her pace.
Let's be real. Most of us are in this for the treasure. The way she operates? There's no time left to actually enjoy it.
— An Exploration Team Leader
She used to be a regular of mine. But now, she's got a stake in the business.
She'd always buy all sorts of gear from me. If something wasn't practical or user-friendly, she'd tinker with it and make it better.
I thought her modifications were brilliant, so we struck a deal: she provides the designs, and I give her a cut of the profits.
As you can see, nearly all the exploration gear in this shop now bears her touch—either refined or invented by her—and it's a huge hit among Explorers!
— A Shopkeeper
Record
When Ethel first arrived at the team, her conduct mirrored her appearance. She carried a casual ease, always edged with a hint of formality.
Even after some time, that calm, professional vibe never really warmed up, and it started to make some of the team a little uneasy.
The turning point came during a discussion about a new expedition, when Ethel took the initiative to analyze the intel and share her opinions.
For the first time, that wall of formality just came down. She was in her element.
Though she soon returned to her usual reserved self after the meeting, the members had already figured out how to bridge the gap with her.
Now, whenever there was a mission or something about exploration on the table, everyone made a point of seeking Ethel's advice.
Ethel, in turn, never held back in sharing her thoughts. Even in casual chat, bring up an exploration story, and she would light up and lean in.
It was clear that she, too, was making an effort to fit in and grow closer to the other members.
Though no noticeable changes have taken place just yet, there's no need for concern. All that's left is to keep an eye out and offer support whenever she might need it.
Anecdote
Miss Ethel, what made you decide to be an Explorer in the first place?
Same as most people, really. Tried to make some money.
But your family was fairly well-off, no?
We were comfortable, yes. But then my father ran into some trouble...
Ah, I see! So the dutiful, brave daughter becomes an Explorer to support the household—
Whoa, wait! Nothing quite that dramatic.
But you said your father had troubles...
He did, but we still had savings. So we get by. It wasn't about putting food on the table.
It’s just that I love exploring and need to buy gear and materials, but didn't want to keep asking my father for money. Becoming an Explorer let me fund my own adventures.
Basically, I found the perfect job, one that pays you to do what you love.
Well, that's... not what I expected. But you must be doing quite well now, right? As a famous explorer with shares in multiple shops?
Nowhere near enough! Between buying ruin intel and developing new gear, my expenses are through the roof.
If I want to build all the equipment I have in mind, I'd need triple, no, quintuple, my current income.
Hehe, never thought I'd hear you sound like a businesswoman.
What can I say? There are so many places I want to explore, but going in unprepared is just asking for trouble.
Coming from you, that's hard to take seriously.
How exactly does everyone think of me...?
Anyway, we've rested long enough. Let's continue exploring the ruins.
Absolutely! Whatever traps lie ahead, just leave them to me!
Hehe, I'll be counting on you.