Astral Cube

Astral Cube

Item Type: Wondrous Item (Arcane Focus, Legendary, requires attunement by a Wizard)

Description:
The Astral Cube is a small, rotating, multi-faceted cube that hovers just above the wielder’s hand when in use. Each face of the cube contains a different rune, glowing with celestial and arcane energy. These runes are ancient sigils of the stars, representing deep cosmic knowledge and power. As the wielder turns the cube, the runes shift, revealing new constellations that connect the user to the astral plane. The cube hums softly, resonating with the energies of the arcane weave, and is said to be a repository of all magic ever cast beneath the stars.

Properties:

1. Astral Knowledge:
   The Astral Cube contains vast knowledge of the arcane, giving the attuned wizard a +3 bonus to Intelligence (Arcana) checks. Additionally, the cube grants proficiency in the History skill (if the user is already proficient, it grants expertise).

2. Arcane Reservoir:
   The cube stores and amplifies arcane energy, allowing the wizard to regain expended spell slots. Once per long rest, the user can choose to recover a number of expended spell slots with a combined level equal to or less than 8 (e.g., one 8th-level spell slot, two 4th-level slots, or any combination thereof). Astral energies are imbued into your physical self, bolstering your body with a + 2 bonus to Strength.

3. Cosmic Channel:
   When casting a spell, the Astral Cube can be used to channel astral energy. Once per long rest, the wielder can cast any spell they know or have prepared as if it were cast at one level higher than the slot used (up to 9th level). If the spell is already 9th level, it instead gains additional effects:

   • For damage spells: +3d10 force damage
   • For control spells: Enemies have disadvantage on saving throws
   • For utility spells: The duration is doubled

4. Astral Projection (1/week):
   The wielder of the Astral Cube can cast Astral Projection once per week without using a spell slot or material components. The spell is unique in that it allows the wizard to traverse the astral plane without physical risk, leaving behind no silver cord. This form of projection allows the user to explore vast expanses of the astral plane, seeking ancient arcane knowledge or hidden lore.

5. Astral Insight:
   The Astral Cube allows the wielder to gain deep insight into the nature of magic. While attuned, the wizard can use an action to focus on the cube, choosing one of the following benefits:

   • Read the Stars: The wielder can cast Legend Lore without expending a spell slot. The subject of the Legend Lore must have some connection to magic or the astral plane.
   • Astral Vision: The wielder gains Truesight out to a range of 60 feet for 10 minutes.
   • Arcane Pathway: The wielder can teleport up to 100 feet to a space they can see without casting a spell, as long as that space is under an open sky or in a location connected to the astral plane.

Notes: Proficiency: Arcana, Expertise: History, Bonus: Strength Score