Rook’s Folded Map
Fifth of the Pathworn Relics
“By the nine drunk navigators of Greyshore, this map don’t point North — it points to trouble.”
Mike’s Memory: The Map That Walked Me into Gold… and a Divorce
I once followed Rook’s Folded Map for six days.
It took me to a cave full of singing rats, a cursed mirror that called me “Dad,” and a half-orc wedding I was apparently invited to. I left with three gold, a limp, and the mayor’s pants. Best trip of my life.
That’s what this relic does.
It don’t show you where you want to go. It shows you where the story wants to happen — the kind of “opportunity” that leaves ya rich, dead, or legally married to a hag.
And like the rest of the Pathworn Relics, it doesn’t reveal everything at once. The longer you carry it, the deeper it folds — and the more dangerous its destinations become.
Here’s the full set, if you’re bent on fate:
You Don’t Read It. You Follow It.
This trinket suits wanderers, hexblades, clerics of fate, or anyone whose backstory includes “I didn’t mean to be here.” Don’t use it if you like safety. Or plans.
Item Type: Wondrous Item (Trinket)
Rarity: Uncommon → Very Rare (scales with level)
Trait – Where You Need to Be:
Level 1–4:
Once per day, ask the map for “opportunity.” It reveals a vague, shifting symbol leading toward a minor boon (loose coin, odd trinket, NPC with a quest).
Following it grants advantage on Insight or Investigation during that day’s journey.
Level 5–9:
Map reveals a folded route once per long rest — pointing to nearby events (positive or negative) tied to your backstory or class.
Gain +1 to survival and nature checks while following its direction.
Level 10–14:
Can now request specific themes (treasure, danger, answers, allies). Map reacts with greater clarity.
Once per week, can rewrite a location — turning a neutral spot into a minor story event.
Level 15+:
Once per long rest, teleport to a “nearby narrative” — placing the party within 500 feet of the next quest-related, DM-approved opportunity.
The map becomes semi-sentient, offering advice… and sass.
Where to Find It: Wherever You Shouldn’t Be
Maybe it flutters out of a ruined journal. Or sticks to the sole of your boot during a desert march. Or gets handed to you by a child who says, “You dropped this,” and then disappears.
The Map Knows. You Don’t.
📌 If yer path is straight, safe, and expected… burn it.
👉 Rook’s Folded Map is for those who chase the unexpected. Pair it with Mistweave Leathers if you wanna run faster than fate, or bring it alongside Whisperfang if you enjoy stabbing destiny in the back. The full Tavern Armory awaits, or ask Mike for directions — I’ll just point and laugh.
FAQ
Q: Does it show actual locations?
A: Only abstract ones — ideas, themes, feelings. It knows where drama brews. Like a bard with paper cuts.
Q: What happens if two people read it?
A: You’ll both see something different. Then you’ll argue. Then something will explode. Standard adventuring procedure.
Q: Is the teleportation safe?
A: As safe as “somewhere nearby that the story wants you to be” ever is.
