Tequila

Personal Info

Tequila, a steward of the prestigious Rothsbear family, is a man of sharp intellect and even sharper skills. When the young lady embarked on her journey in the Abyss, he accompanied her as a protector.
After she founded the group Nightfall Attendants, he continued his work in the Abyss under its banner.

Proud and solitary by nature, Tequila keeps those he deems unworthy at a frosty distance.
Thus, many Explorers find him aloof and unapproachable.
Yet he remains utterly indifferent to others' opinions and intent on carving his own path, with his own judgment as his sole guide.

Chronicles

Mr. Tequila saved our lives. As for the man himself... how to put it? He's exactly like the rumors say. Cold, arrogant, but that's not the whole story.
After rescuing us, he ignored our thanks and mocked our behavior.
But hidden in all that scorn, he pointed out every mistake we made and every weakness in our team. Someone truly heartless wouldn't have bothered, you know?
— An Explorer

Officially, he's my steward, but he's more like a friend. We shared everything growing up, and I often talk things through with him before making a decision.
The man is thorough, insightful, and handles emergencies like an expert. You could trust him with anything.
So when we needed someone to escort my little sister, he was the first person I thought of...
— Second Son of the Rothsbear Family

Tequila's been by my brother's side since they were kids. Didn't pick up much of his charm, but he learned plenty about planning and strategy.
And he's no slouch, either. Never failed a job for my brother. Definitely more capable than your typical steward.
The only downside is that he's terrible with words. Gruff to a fault, he has a stone face telling people to "back off" all the time. Still, aside from that, there's not much to complain about.
— ??? from Nightfall Attendants

He and his father both serve Rothsbear as stewards. They're equally competent, just with very different approaches.
Where his father's all steady and humble, he's far more direct.
Some can't stand his attitude, but I say what's wrong with a young man sticking to his principles? A little confidence never hurt anyone.
— ??? from Nightfall Attendants

Record

Though Tequila has spent considerable time with the team, aside from brief absences due to the young lady's orders, He didn't change much, just as cold and haughty just like when he first arrived.
Some members worry that his lack of warmth means he hasn't truly accepted this place, and that he may eventually leave.
While their concerns aren't entirely unfounded, that seems unlikely.
Tequila isn't the type to humor invitations out of politeness or obligation. If he's here, it's because he's chosen to be.
And though subtle, changes have been made.
A keen observer might notice he starts to be a little more talkative with those who approach him and occasionally contributes to team discussions...
Albeit in a tone some describe as a more sarcastic remark than helpful input. Anyway, that's a delightful sign.
To most, such a change would seem negligible. But for Tequila? It's clear proof that he's already on his way to becoming one of us.

Anecdote

While restocking supplies in the Settlement, Tequila noticed a pair of Explorers among the crowd, a timid young man and a lively girl.
The boy moved with cautious restraint, his gaze repeatedly drifting toward the girl as she laughed and joked with others.
Each time she caught him looking, she'd flash him a bright smile.

By the time Tequila finished his errands, night had fallen. On his way back to the camp, a figure before caught his eye.
It was the same boy from earlier, now sitting with his knees drawn up in a dim alleyway with a despondent look on his face.
Such sights were common in the Abyss; Tequila didn't break his pace.
Then, just as he neared the intersection, a few of his supplies tumbled to the ground.
"Tch. Troublesome," he muttered, picking up the items with visible irritation.
"If even a simple task like this is full of setbacks, imagine the rest."
"Half-hearted efforts yield half-hearted results. If you want something, fight for it."
"Hesitate? Holding back? Those who lack the resolve to go all-in don't deserve a thing."
With the supplies retrieved, he strode off without another word. His voice was just loud enough for the boy in the shadow to hear...

"Whoa. Since when does Mr. Tequila monologue over dropped groceries?"
"Idiot. He was obviously talking to that kid. Hey, you in the alley! If you like her, go for it! What's there to lose?"
"Huh? What are you—? Wait, did that what Mr. Tequila mean?"
"Gods, you're dense. That boy's been pining after that girl all day. Look at him now. Probably got rejected or chickened out."
"You think a proper steward like Mr. Tequila will drop things by accident? He was throwing that kid a lifeline."
"No good. Mr. Tequila's gone! Quick, let's catch up!"