Blackscale

Blackscale is a hard, reflective material often found in small hexagonal scales roughly one inch in diameter. It is extremely hard and brittle, breaking into very sharp shards under overwhelming stress. The material can be alchemically softened and formed into a variety of tools and decorative objects. Blackscale can also be used for a variety of magical purposes and is sought after by most magically active denizens of Mangal. It is also very desirable for cutting edges, which remain razor-sharp indefinitely with no maintenance.   Blackscale is collected from the roots of Havenwood trees. The scales are found in patches of fibrous greyish white growths, typically very deep near the waterline of the Brine. Many goblin communities survive by scouring the Rootwell for these deposits. The scales are known by many names: witch coin by elves, mother stone by hags, etc.   Because of their value and relatively uniform natural size, blackscale is also commonly used as a trading currency for higher-value magical and artisan goods.