The Wu Xing Compass as depicted in Total War: Warhammer III.
The Wu Xing Compass is a powerful magical artefact maintained by the ruling Cathayan Dragons of Grand Cathay in the Celestial Empire's capital city of Wei-jin that produces powerful, realm-wide magical effects that bolster the empire's economy, population growth and military defences.[1a]
The Wu Xing Compass harnesses the Winds of Magic to bring prosperity to Grand Cathay. Directing the compass according to the desires of the Cathayan Dragons creates a reserve of magical energy; the greater the reserve, the larger the benefits that can be granted to the empire. However, these energy reserves will deplete over time as the benefits accrue.[1a]
When the compass was pointed towards the Great Bastion its energies strengthened that magical wall's ability to repel assaults upon Grand Cathay by the Chaos-worshipping Northmen tribes of the Eastern Steppes and the northern Chaos Wastes.[1a]
When the compass was pointed towards the western Warpstone Desert, it weakened the effects of the Winds of Magic across Cathayan territory but also reduced the chances for Chaos to gain traction upon the souls of the empire's inhabitants.[1a]
When the compass was pointed towards the Celestial Lake, it increased the strength of the Winds of Magic across Cathayan territory but also greatly improved the empire's economic and population growth.[1a]
And when the compass was positioned to unleash what was known as the "Dragon Emperor's Wrath," it significantly increased the political control of the Cathayan Dragon dynasty over the hearts and minds of their people, reducing the chances for rebellion or insurrection. Additionally, the power of the compass could be used to damage the armies of the northern barbarians who approached too close to the Great Bastion.[1a]
Trivia[]
The Chinese name "Wu Xing" (五行) means "the five phases" or "five agents," referring to the five elements in Chinese alchemy and folklore that are believed to influence every person's fate. They traditionally consist of water, wood, fire, earth, and metal.
Sources[]
- 1:Total War: Warhammer III (PC Game)
- 1a: Grand Cathay Faction Mechanic