Palantir

This pedestal has a recess currently occupied by a magical sphere, it also has 23 notches in the shaft with associated holes to the top for insertion of magical wands, swords, or staffs.

23 is a prime number so feels somewhat magical to me.

Stories this would feature in could involve social tasks such as collecting favors from allied orders to use the signature item of the highest office to activate the magic, or more warlike collect by force the items from competing orders.

Go at it with you imagination and bring this chunk of dungeon furniture to life in your home brew.

(includes with Orb and without)