Hekigyoku

Hekigyoku is the most successful merchant in The Crystal Highlands of Armaria, yet they have never accepted a single gem or coin for their services. Their wares are simple: fresh bamboo, which they provide to wizards and scientists with a warm smile and a playful tip of their captain's hat. The mages use the stalks as conduits for volatile spells; alchemists burn them for their uniquely pure ash. Everyone sees a generous benefactor, a friendly soul nurturing the region's progress. They always ask for one thing in return: that the spent, magically-saturated stalks be returned for proper disposal. No one ever asks what happens to the whispers of power and secrets the porous wood soaks up.