It was mentioned a few times in the story that Rhys sold his very valuable staff so that he had money to support his younger brother. Most Witchans, and those who know about their culture, will be promptly horrified by this. Allow me to elaborate:

All Witchan children receive a staff the day AFTER they complete their Rite of Passage. With older, richer families the staff is usually a heirloom passed from either father to son or mother to daughter. With families that aren't as well off, usually the staff is hand-made by the adult that helps the child through their Passage. When a child receives their staff, yet another celebration is called on.

Staffs in Witchan culture represent more than just passing into adulthood. Staffs represent a person's very soul. This is because when a child receives their staff, they store some of their own energy and magic into it. When this is done it is a said a small piece of your soul goes into the staff. Then that staff remains yours until you die or pass it on to your child.

Selling your staff is like selling your soul, in a way.

Annnd that's all I've got. Ugh. I HATE being sick.