Apothecary
Uncommon in the Glacial City, poorly equipped in An-Kerrar, and often overlooked in Shoford in favour of more "cutting-edge" healthcare "professionals."
Career
Qualifications
Often study at a larger institution (ideally in Shoford) is required in order to enter into this industry, though for those more rural pursuers of the profession, this is not always possible. If one wishes to become an apothecary, they will typically spend at least two years under the tutelage or training of an established, or practiced, apothecary as an apprentice.
Payment & Reimbursement
Payment depends largely on location, competition, and the wealth of their general population, or clientele. More generous apothecaries may charge less or even nothing at all.
Other Benefits
Most folks quite appreciate the work of apothecaries, having had to visit one at some time or another at least once in their lives. A good apothecary is invaluable, as most folks are well aware.
Occasionally a particularly grateful patient, or their family or friends, may give an apothecary a gift of some kind, perhaps a tool, an ornament, some gold, or a portion of their harvest.
Many citizen's councils, or councils established for the benefit of citizens, will have a member who is an apothecary.
Some folk, especially in dire times, will volunteer to become an apothecary's assistant for a time, though apprentices are usually more useful, of course.
Most folks are quite amenable to procuring something for, defending the honour of, or otherwise assisting an apothecary, and are unlikely to require much persuading, so long as only a small favour is required.
Perception
Social Status
Slightly lower-middle class, occasionally on the brink of the two classes (middle and lower).
Demographics
About 3.5%, though obviously in incredibly small towns (ie 40 people) it could be argued apothecaries make up a slightly larger percentage.
History
The first apothecary was a druid-cleric, motivated to use their understanding of and affinity with nature to help those around them who were perhaps differently educated, or who did not have access to Restoration spells and the like.
Operations
Tools
Mortar and pestle, fire/hearth, drying line.
Materials
String or twine, bottles, droppers, scissors or a knife, a pot, a kettle or cauldron, a score or more bowls. A recipe book, occasionally.
Alternative Names
Healers, Witch-doctors, Shamans
Type
Healthcare
Demand
Steady, normal. There is always someone ailing, ill or injured.
Famous in the Field
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