I don't know where I read it (yeah search function!) but I think it was said that the unlimited staves being sold were just a precursor for later when enchanting, auctions, quests, etc could come in and make better Foci.
I'm sure they purposely made the staff mediocre otherwise, meh, what would there be to build on?
Player of Diggan, Ranger & Halfing of Aesry
