Housekeeper Hiri
Biography
Steward of the diminished clan
Hiri remained with the impoverished Baruch household as servant, adviser, and surrogate elder. He managed daily affairs, explained family circumstances to the young Linley, and supported Hogg's efforts to educate both sons despite scarce money. After Linley restored the clan, Hiri moved into the expanded household and lived long enough to welcome Linley back from the Necropolis, but as an ordinary human he eventually died during Linley's millennia away. (Chapters 2, 12, 16–18, 20, 28, 33, 114, 192, 220, 222, 228–229, 245, 251, 259, 366, 381, 426)
Appearance
Hiri is an elderly man whose age and familiar presence mark him as part of the old Wushan household. (Chapters 2, 12, 16–18, 20)
Personality
He is loyal, practical, affectionate, and discreet about the Baruch family's pride and hardships. (Chapters 2, 12, 16–18, 20, 28, 33)
Abilities and powers
Hiri has no supernatural cultivation shown; his value lies in stewardship, memory, and dependable household service. (Chapters 2, 12, 16–18, 20, 28, 33)
Relationships
He serves Hogg, cares for Linley and Wharton from childhood, and is treated by the restored Baruch family as far more than a hired servant. (Chapters 2, 12, 16–18, 20, 28, 33, 366)
