Compass of the Wayfarer

 

Compass of the Wayfarer

Wondrous Item, Very Rare

Description

This finely crafted brass pocket compass flips open like a watch, revealing a polished compass. It has an arm that is engraved with a latitude scale and a shadow pointer that doubles as a sundial, both of which fold down against the front of the compass when it is closed. At first glance, it appears entirely mundane, though careful observers may notice faint, imperceptible movements of the needle or shadow when the user concentrates. The compass is designed for explorers and adventurers who require guidance without revealing its magic.

Properties

True North:

The needle always points to true north, unaffected by local magnetic fields or minor planar distortions. This effect is constant and requires no activation.

Subtle Destination Guidance (Su):

The user may focus on a location, person, or object within the same plane.

When concentrating, the shadow pointer tilts or vibrates slightly toward the target. The motion is subtle - someone watching casually would assume it is a peculiarity of craftsmanship.

The effect lasts up to 1 hour per use.

Uses: 1/day per 3 character levels (maximum 5/day).

If the target is moving, hidden, or behind a planar barrier, the user must succeed on a DC 20 Wisdom check to obtain accurate guidance. Failure results in the pointer indicating only the general area.

Sundial Illumination:

The shadow pointer doubles as a miniature sundial, showing local solar time accurately. This feature only works outside on a sunny day.

Once per day, the user gains a +4 circumstance bonus on Survival checks for navigation.

Knowledge of Places (Su):

When consulting a map while holding the compass, the user may attempt a Knowledge (geography) check to recall information about a region.

The compass grants a +2 bonus on Knowledge (geography) checks related to areas the user is currently exploring or has previously visited.

Construction

Requirements Craft Wondrous Item, Legend Lore, Divination, Comprehend Languages

Price to Create: 16,500 gp + 660 XP

Market Price: 33,000 gp

Weight: 1 lb.

LORE

These devices are the product of ingenious gnomish craftsmen, designed with meticulous precision and subtle magic. Originally, they were intended primarily for dwarves working in deep and treacherous mines, helping them navigate winding tunnels, hidden shafts, and complex subterranean networks. Over time, their usefulness spread to adventurers and explorers, prized for their ability to guide without appearing magical. The latitude scale and sundial shadow pointer lend a mundane, practical appearance, while the subtle magics gently direct the user toward intended destinations and enhance knowledge of geography - perfect for those who value clever engineering and discretion.