This is a 30 cm carved rod which can take on many forms and shapes, but usually remains quite natural and humble. It is used by many nomadic caravans and people as a tool to traverse unknown terrain.

Inscriptions run along the entire length of the rod, a combination of runes and sigils to anchor the enchantment, as well as a mark of ownership if so desired. When active faint veins glow, providing a sense of what lies ahead and beyond the path.

The original Khet-Spike is said to have originated with the Noma in the northern polar regions of Avaleen. It was created to aid the nomadic lifestyle against the harsh terrain and dangers that came with it.

There are several small rituals connected to the Khet-Spike outside of its practical use. When to caravans meet, their Pathkeepers will cross spikes because it is said to share warnings and wish one another good luck on the way ahead. When the person who is attuned to the Khet-Spike dies, it is said that the tool carries a piece of their soul and wisdom with it to the next bearer.

Breaking a Khet-Spike is a serious taboo and stealing one is grounds for banishment or blood-feuds.

Abilities

When driven into the ground, the user - usually the Pathkeeper - attunes the Khet-Spike to the surrounding terrain within a 3-mile radius.

Hazard Sense. As a ritual (1 min), the Khet-Spike grants advantage on Survival checks to detect natural disasters and dangers within 3 miles in all directions.

The glowing veins are slightly different depending on what is near.

• Amber: Unstable or rocky ground, crevasses, sinkholes.
• Blue: Arcane disturbances, magical traps, realm rifts.
• Red: Signs of predatory beasts or cursed land.
• Green: Fertile ground, safe zones.

Advanced versions can also emit vibrations or emit a sound that grows in intensity as the danger draws nearer.

Disaster Ward. Once per short rest it automatically alerts the bearer 1 hour before a significant natural disaster, or the imminent presence of a creature with CR15+ (DM discretion)

This ability detects incoming natural disasters and environmental hazards (this includes sandstorms, oncoming earthquakes, volcanic activity, magical storms, rapid temperature drops. It can project a directional pulse, guiding the caravan away from the worst danger.

Circle of Alarm. Functions like the Alarm spell, lasts 8 hours. The Khet-Spike must remain planted and undisturbed.

When planted in the ground, a small incantation activates an invisible perimeter around the campsite (30-80 feet radius, depending on variant). If any creature crosses this boundary that is not carrying a Khet-sigil attuned to the spike, it emits a tonal warning pulse into the mind of everyone who does. The cheaper variants do not require attunement through secondary sigils, but the pulse becomes audible to everyone and anyone. The sound can be whatever one chooses; a note, an animal call, bird whistle etc.

The spike cannot be moved while active and removing it disarms the circle.