Celestial Prism of Timing
Wondrous Item (Artifact), rare (requires attunement)
This multifaceted crystal device refracts light into a spectrum of colors, resembling a miniature galaxy contained within. When held, it feels warm to the touch, resonating with a gentle hum that aligns with the rhythm of the universe. The artifact is intricately engraved with celestial patterns and contains a small, rotating internal mechanism that ticks softly like a clock.
Once per day, the attuned user can activate the item as a bonus action to gain an understanding of the ebb and flow of time in their immediate vicinity. For the next minute, the user can see through the veil of time, allowing them to make sense of imminent threats and opportunities. During this time, they gain the following benefits:
- Foresight: The user can add a d4 to their initiative rolls and the first attack roll they make each turn.
- Temporal Shield: Once per activation, when the user is hit by an attack, they can use their reaction to impose disadvantage on that attack roll, as they momentarily step out of sync with time, causing the attack to miss.
- Momentary Control: As an action on their turn, the user can allow themselves to take an extra turn immediately after their current turn, but they cannot use this ability again until they finish a short or long rest.
However, the passage of time is a delicate balance, and manipulating it can have unforeseen consequences. After using the artifact's powers, the user must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or experience a brief lapse in temporal awareness, causing them to be surprised during their next turn.
Additionally, the owner may occasionally hear whispers of long-lost histories and futures from the cosmos. While attuned, the user can commune with the essence of the time-stream once per week, gaining insight into the future that may help them with upcoming challenges. This is handled as a single-use divination spell, with a potential difficulty determined by the DM.
To utilize the Celestial Prism of Timing effectively requires skill in navigating the fine line between honoring the natural order of time and breaking it, making it an artifact as potent as it is perilous.
