Elira Thorne
An herbalist with steady hands and sharper memory, whose warmth hides a past she never fully left behind.
What People Know
Elira Thorne is the proprietor of The Verdant Vial, Strangeways’ most trusted alchemy and herbal shop. In her late forties, with auburn hair often tied back and sleeves perpetually dusted with dried leaves or powder, she is known as a calm, reassuring presence in troubled times.
Before settling down, Elira was an adventurer—a fact she never advertises, but never denies when asked directly. Those who know how to listen can hear it in the way she assesses wounds, asks questions, and recognizes danger before it arrives.
Reputation
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Universally trusted across Strangeways
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Known for fair prices and honest advice
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Sought out in times of illness, grief, or uncertainty
When Elira speaks, people tend to take her words seriously—even if they don’t understand why.
The Verdant Vial
Elira’s shop is warm, fragrant, and lived-in, filled with jars of herbs, tinctures, and remedies that actually work. Locals treat it as much like a gathering place as a business, lingering longer than necessary just to talk.
The Vial has weathered shortages, unrest, and fear better than most places in town.
Personality
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Gentle, patient, and quietly perceptive
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Speaks in parables and half-stories rather than commands
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Rarely surprised, even when she should be
She has a habit of answering difficult questions with simple truths that only make sense later.
Relationship with Corwin
Elira knows far more about Corwin’s past than she ever openly discusses. She offers support without interference, advice without judgment, and trust without conditions.
She does not try to stop Corwin from walking dangerous paths.
She simply makes sure he knows where home is.
Rumors
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Elira keeps ingredients no simple herbalist should have
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She recognizes old symbols and scars on sight
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She has turned away people she judged “not ready”
Player Notes
Elira Thorne is the kind of person everyone trusts—and no one truly knows.
Her kindness is deliberate, not naïve.
If she ever gives direct advice instead of a story, it means time is short.
The Verdant Vial is one of the safest places in Strangeways—for reasons few can name.