YEO3-06

YEO3-06
The Rhythm of Drums

A One-Round D&D LIVING GREYHAWK
Yeomanry Regional Adventure
Version 1.1
by G. Havard Albright, Jr. and Donald Ward, III
The sound of drums is never uncommon this close to the Hellfurnaces, but a recent border patrol brings ominous news.
Can the PCs silence the drums before they themselves are silenced? A Yeomanry regional adventure for APLs 4-10.

Based on the original DUNGEONS & DRAGONS rules created by E. Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson and the new DUNGEONS & DRAGONS game designed
by Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Skip Williams, Richard Baker, and Peter Adkison.
This game product contains no Open Game Content. No portion of this work may be reproduced in any form without
permission of the author. To learn more about the Open Gaming License and the d20 system license, please visit
www.wizards.com/d20
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, D&D, GREYHAWK and RPGA are registered trademarks of Wizards of the Coast, Inc.
LIVING GREYHAWK is a trademark of Wizards of the Coast, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This scenario is
intended for tournament use only and may not be reproduced without approval of the RPGA Network.
during certain times of play. For example, the players are
Introduction not free to consult the Dungeon Masters Guide when
confronted with a trap or hazard, or the Monster Manual
This is an RPGA Network scenario for the Dungeons &
when confronted with a monster.
Dragons game. A four-hour time block has been allocated
for each round of this scenario, but the actual playing time Some of the text in this scenario is written so that you may
will be closer to three and a half hours. The rest of the time present it as written to the players, while other text is for
is spent in preparation before game play, and scoring after your eyes only. Text for the players will be in gray boxes.
the game. The following guidelines are here to help you Its strongly recommended that you paraphrase the player
with both the preparation and voting segment of the game. text instead of reading it aloud. Some of this text is general
Read this page carefully so that you know and can and must be adapted to the specific situation or to actions
communicate to your players the special aspects of playing of the player characters.
an RPGA scenario.
This is a LIVING GREYHAWK Adventure. As a LIVING
adventure it is expected that players bring their own
Preparation characters with them. If players do not have a LIVING
First you should print this scenario. This scenario was GREYHAWK character generated, get a copy of the
created to support double-sided printing, but printing it current LIVING GREYHAWK character generation
single sided will work as well. There is enough room along guidelines, and a character sheet from your convention
the inside margin to bind the adventure, if you desire. coordinator or the RPGA Web site, ant then have any
players without a character create on. Once all players
Read this entire adventure at least once before you run have a LIVING GREYHAWK character, play can begin.
your game. Be sure to familiarize yourself with any special
rules, spells, or equipment presented in the adventure. It Along with the other materials that you are assumed to
may help to highlight particularly important passages. have in order to run a D&D game, it is also recommended
that you have a copy of the LIVING GREYHAWK
When you run an RPGA D&D adventure we assume that Gazetteer.
you have access to the following books: the Players
Handbook, the Dungeon Masters Guide, and the Monster
Living Greyhawk Levels of Play
Manual. We also assume that you have a set of dice (at least
one d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, and d20), some scrap paper, a Because players bring their own characters to LIVING
pencil, an RPGA scoring packet, and your sense of fun. It is GREYHAWK games, this adventures challenges are
also a good idea to have a way to track movement during proportioned to the average character level of the PCs
combat. This can be as simple as a pad of graph paper and a participating in the adventure. To determine the Average
pencil, as handy as a vinyl grid map and chits, or as Party Level (APL):
elaborate as resin dungeon walls and miniatures.
1. Determine the character level for each of the PCs
Instruct the players either to prepare their characters now, participating in the adventure.
or wait until you read the introduction, depending on the
2. If PCs bring animals that have been trained for
requirements of the scenario as described in the
combat (most likely being war horses, dogs trained
introduction.
for war), other than those brought by virtue of a class
Keep in mind that you must have at least four players (not ability (i.e. animal companions, familiars paladins
counting the DM), for the game session to be a sanctioned mounts, etc) use the sidebar chart to determine the
RPGA event. As well, you cannot have more than six number of levels you add to the sum above. Add each
players participating in the game. characters animals separately. A single PC may only
bring four or fewer animals of this type, and animals
Once you are ready to play, it is handy to instruct each
with different CRs are added separately.
player to place a nametag in front of him or her. The tag
should have the players name at the bottom, and the 3. Sum the results of 1 and 2, and divide by the number
characters name, race, and gender at the top. This makes it of characters playing in the adventure. Round to the
easier for the players (and the DM) to keep track of who is nearest whole number.
playing which character.
4. If you are running a table of six PCs, add one to that
The players are free to use the game rules to learn about average.
equipment and weapons their characters are carrying. That
said, you as the DM can bar the use of even core rulebooks
YEO3-06 The Rhythm of Drums Page 2

By following these four steps, you will have determined Mundane # of Animals
the APL. Throughout this adventure, APLs categorize the Animals Effect on
level of challenge the PCs will face. APLS are given in APL
1 2 3 4
even-numbered increments. If the APL of your group
falls on an odd number, ask them before the adventure 1/4 & 1/6 0 0 0 1
begins whether they would like to play a harder or easier 1/3 & 1/2 0 0 1 1
adventure. Based on their choice, use either the higher or
the lower adjacent APL. 1 1 1 2 3
APL also affects the amount of experience you may gain 2 2 3 4 5
CR of Animal
at the end of the adventure. If your character is three 3 3 4 5 6
character levels or more either higher or lower than the
APL this adventure is being played at, that character will 4 4 6 7 8
receive only half of the experience points awarded for the 5 5 7 8 9
adventure. This simulates the face that either your
character was not as challenged as normal, or relied on 6 6 8 9 10
help by higher-level characters to reach the objectives. 7 7 9 10 11
Note: LIVING GREYHAWK adventures are designed for
APL 2 and higher. Four or sometimes even five 1st-level
characters may find difficulty with the challenges in a
LIVING GREYHAWK adventure. If your group is APL 1
there are two things that you can do to help even the
score.
1. Attempt to create a table of six 1st-level characters, or
try to enlist higher-level characters to play at that
table.
2. Advise characters to buy riding dogs to help protect
them, and fight for them. All riding dogs are
considered trained to attack. PCs who want their
dogs to attack must succeed at a Handle Animal or
Charisma check (DC 10). Failure indicates that the
animal will not attack that round. This is a free
action (spoken command) that may be attempted
each round. If an animal loses half or more hp in a
single round it flees, unless another check is
successful.
Time Units and Upkeep

This is a standard one-round Regional adventure, set in
the Yeomanry. Characters native to the Yeomanry pay
one Time Unit per round, all others pay two Time Units
per round. Adventurers Standard Upkeep costs 12gp per
Time Unit. Rich Upkeep costs 50gp per Time Unit.
Luxury Upkeep costs 100gp per Time Unit.

the PC up for advancement. Only one PC can be
Adventure Background nominated for advancement per scenario.
The player so nominated must then gather the names and
About the Yeomanry email addresses of all Yeomanry militia players AND
The Yeomanry is situated in a valley between the Jotens THE DM at the table.
and the Tors in the southwest corner of the Sheldomar The player must then submit a small summary of what
Valley. The moderately sized realm is nearly surrounded happened in the adventure and why he or she should be
by the Crystalmists and its spurs, though its eastern considered for promotion. Emailing this information to
border with Keoland is generally regarded as the eastern [email protected].
bank of the Javan across from the county of Cryllor. Its
border continues south to where the great river enters The Triad will then discuss your promotion and
the Hool marshes and the lands of the Sea Princes. The determine whether promotion is granted. You will be
climate is hot nearly year-round in the central valley, notified via email, and a promotion certificate will be sent
though the temperature moderates as one approaches the to you via snail mail.
foothills, particularly in late fall and winter. The In order to be considered for promotion, the Yeomanry
Yeomanry is a land populated primarily by freemen militia member must have spent a minimum of one year
Farmers, who are mostly a Suel-Flan mix. of REAL time as the rank below that being applied for.
The Yeomanry is one of the few representative So in order to be considered for Serjeant, the player must
democracies in the Flanaess. Any citizen of majority who have spent one full year as a Yeoman, and one full year
has carried a spear for the nation, either now or in the below that as an unranked militiaman.
past, is eligible to elect spokesmen on his behalf from his
community, these spokesmen in turn elect Is this a Dustdigger Module?
Grosspokesmen that serve in the Council of Common
As this adventure does not significantly involve
Grosspokesmen in Loftwick.
archeological matters, students in the Academy of Lore
The people of the Yeomanry are rural, cloistered folk may not count this adventure towards their Academy TU
with little exposure to either foreigners or magic. They requirement.
are religious and superstitious, yet reservedly friendly to
travelers. Many Yeomen have served in the Militia and Shalehal
are stout defenders of their homes.
Shalehal (SHAL a hale) has the notoriety of being the
You can learn more about the Yeomanry at its official only town in the Yeomanry with an elven majority. It
website: http://yeomanry.living-greyhawk.com. lies in a wooded area in the far southwest of the
Yeomanry. Not surprisingly, the town's major export is
Is this a Military Module? lumber and products derived there from. The elves here
take great pride in the preservation of the surrounding
As the defense of the homeland is imperative, at least to
woods, and are very selective in determining what trees
some extent, in this module, members of the Yeoman
should be harvested. Malethane Trianius is a renowned
military may count this adventure towards any annual
woodcarver who lives in Shalehal and commands great
TU requirement for their branch of the military.
prices for his work. Some say that magic augments his
artistic talents.
Is this adventure promotion worthy?
Shalehal (pop. 800) does have a Grosspokesman, Hianian
Heroic deeds in the name of the Yeoman Militia are Tirel, who is 'as old as the trees, as wise as the greatest
possible in this module, and as such, the possibility for sage, and as stern as a judge,' according to the townsfolk.
promotion exists. In order for a PC to be considered for The town has made a pact with the treants who reside in
promotion at the end of this adventure, the PC must do the forest. The treants protect the town, and in exchange
the following: they have a say in what trees can be used by the elves.
The GM and all Yeomanry militia members present at the
table must unanimously agree that the PC has performed Adventure Background
an action and behaved in a manner that would make
Captain Dinalles concerns are well founded and his
them a good leader of men in their unit. There must be at
information is, for the most part correct. In the
least two other military PCs playing the scenario besides
mountains south of Shalehal, a hill giant bard named

BoomTah has established himself and formed quite a Adventure Summary
tribe around him. His charisma is incredible and is the
only thing that kept him alive in his younger years, as he The characters are gathered by Captain Dinalle, an officer
is weaker than many of his brethren. BoomTah had left of the Border Guard, and asked to undertake a covert
his tribe at a young age and traveled deep into the mission for the good of the country. They are to seek out
mountains where he met, and eventually served with, a and either capture or kill a giant that has been passing
clan of fire giants. Here, he learned more of the drum and along a new series of drum codes. He wants this done off
horn signals and here he left with new powers and the record for now, as he has not yet received
treasures that would serve him well closer to his authorization to go in from Loftwick. Fearing that the
birthplace. giant may escape before they can get to him, he is asking
the adventurers to go after him now.
Returning to his old tribe with support from his new fire
giant friends, it did not take BoomTah long to take and The characters set off into the wilderness, traipsing
firmly hold command. This occurred some two winters through the wooded mountains. PCs with ranks in
past. Survival and Knowledge (nature) get a chance to shine,
warned of and avoiding some possible dangers.
Since that time, BoomTah has absorbed as many of the
giant and humanoid tribes into his own as he can. Held A chance encounter with a band of orcs provides
together more by his charisma than by force of arms, the characters with an opportunity to capture one of these
variety of creatures serving him are loyal to him if not to humanoid bards. If successful, they can gain some of the
the greater tribe he has formed. As such, internal information they need for the final encounter.
squabbles are constant and, without BoomTahs presence,
Following the directions given by the Captain, the
would tear this camp apart.
characters proceed up a steep path along the side of a
Also, the fire giants, who supported BoomTahs initial mountain. If skilled in the ways of the wilds, the
bid for power as it served their plans to have allies closer characters may note the potential of the danger before
to the Yeomanry border, have become suspicious of the reaching it. Otherwise, the party might hear and
hill giant. He seems to be taking his tribe on his own recognize it, getting out of the way at the last second. If
course, rather than following the orders they occasionally not, they are engulfed in a landslide, caused by a group of
send by way of the pair of fire giants stationed there. The creatures further up the cliff. If the characters are
current fire giants have been told to be wary of this, and unlucky, the creature or creatures, agitated by the ride
their suspicions may become obvious when they are seen. down, are now amongst them.
The fire giants here have no idea what greater plans their
A few days later, PCs find the trails leading towards the
leaders have, but see that BoomTah may not be fully on
inhuman encampment. PCs might notice that the area is
board. In about a weeks time, these fire giants will take
heavily traveled by lots of big critters. They discover a
BoomTah back with them to their base, where he will
small scamper-hole cave nearby, a common border scout
answer to those above him, and making him absent from
stop.
any later assault the Yeomanry launches, leaving him as a
continued threat. The party approaches and recons the giant encampment
and should realize they are dealing with overwhelming
BoomTah is, however, following the fire giants directive
odds. They are encouraged to pull back and plan
to spread the drum-talk throughout the lower mountains,
appropriately.
teaching it to the humanoids. This serves both groups
purposes and is clearly not in the interests of the In regrouping, the party spots a few ogres heading off on
Yeomanry. water detail. These ogres are readily overcome and can
provide the information on where the drummer isin
Eliminating BoomTah, either by capturing him or killing
the caves beyond the camp.
him, will be a critical blow to this giant camp. Without
BoomTahs personal touch, the camp will quickly and The party makes their attempt to get to the drummer,
violently split into smaller, more reasonable groups. The heading into the caves and encountering what resistance
lack of food in the valley will set orc against hobgoblin, lies within, all the time worried about the noise and the
and ogres against all. The hill giants will clear the area of danger of alerting the others in the camp. There, they
all the lesser races and the other giants will simply leave, find the bard and his bodyguards.
heading deeper into the mountains. As such, striking this
The party tries to escape, possibly with the giant bard
blow now is essential.
alive and in tow. They flee, pursued by ogres and their ilk.

Arriving back in town the party possibly needs to get the the giants drum signals. The guards even got the location
giant into town, not a small feat with the guards on duty. of the giant camp, they believe, before the orc
The party meets with borderguard, receiving proper succumbed to its wounds.
accolades and rewards.
The problem rests in the report and what the captain
wants to do versus what the captain thinks Loftwick will
Introduction order. Captain Dinalle sees in this an opportunity to
capture a giant of some importance. If the giants are
The PCs are hired to do a job that cannot be done legally
teaching other mountain races drum signals, it creates
until orders are received.
fear that the tribes are organizing. Not only does
Meeting in the back dining room of the Pinesbreath capturing the bard put a crimp in the giants plans, but
Inn in Shalehal, you see others have received the also it may allow Yeoman to learn what the signals mean.
same tip as you have and are here to see what pans out However, the Captain fears Loftwick will consider the
as well. A Yeomanry militiaman whom you had met risk of life too great to attempt a capture and will order a
before told you of a job opportunity if you werent straight out attack to wipe out the encampment. In such
afraid of heading into the wilds to the south. Now, an attack, that same giant might escape or call in
here to presumably meet with the Militiaman again, reinforcements from the other tribes, drawing the issue
you find the room crowded with other adventurers into a prolonged conflict.
like yourself.
And this is why the Captain has approached the party.
Allow PCs who do not yet know each other to introduce
This mission, therefore, is not authorized by the
themselves and get familiar.
Yeomanry government officially. Yer on your own out
After but a few moments wait, the door opens and there. My guys will know your out there, but I cant
the room, small to begin with, grows even more do anything to help ya til you get done, one way or
crowded. Three militiamen, one of whom you know, the other. If ya can get that giant, and get it alive and
and a half-elven Captain of the Border Guard strut in. bring it back, then we can talk. If you cant, and the
giant dies before we strike, better for lots of
The militiaman you know nods in your direction as
Yeomanry families. And if you dont return, well, lets
the Captain looks you over. Good job, boys, the
just hope for the best, shall we? The captain smiles
dark-haired half-elf says as he rubs his chin,
sincerely, obviously hoping youll accept the mission.
examining the lot of you. I think they may work.
With a subtle shift of his stance, the man announces, Treasure: For those players who insist on being paid at
Dismissed. The militiamen snap to attention, raising the conclusion of the mission, they are rewarded with
their arms as if raising the spear, and march out of the 100 gp, split 6 ways. These characters do not receive the
room. favor or the option of training at the end of the module,
nor can they count the round as a military round.
The Captain waits until the door closes and the latch
clicks before he continues. All right then. Im Development: There are a number of questions the
Captain Wolcen Dinalle. What yer about to hear is characters may have, and Captain Dinalle will try to
secret information. Word has been sent already to answer them as best he can. He is a taciturn, driven half-
Loftwick about this, but I suspect that their answer elf whose race has served him well here. He is concerned
will come too late. Either this gets done now, or it with business and has no time for silliness, though he
wont get done at all. recognizes its place, especially in groups of adventurers
like this. Here are some answers he has to some more
The captain goes on to explain the following:
common questions the players may have. Answer other
About a week ago, runners brought word of drums in the questions as you see fit from the information in the
mountains to the south. This is not unheard of, but module or else simply confess that this is something the
apparently they were more than wardrumsthey were Captain does not know.
communications drums. The Yeomanry has used these
Whats in it for us?
for decades, but the fragmented humanoid mountain
tribes, be they orcs, goblins, or whatever, have never so The Captain frowns. I thought yall were adventurers. If
organized or talkative. A group of Yeoman border scouts its mercenaries you are, then Ill pay you a bounty on
caught an orcish drummer and learned from him that himone hundred gold coins, for the giant alive or
giants were in the process of gathering the humanoid proof of his death. Hows that sound?
tribes and teaching some of the smartest amongst them

The captain will not go any higher than this, and thought (Captain Dinalle will provide the party with a scroll of
the militiamen had recommended heroes. The beast is charm monster scribed at 7th level casterthe DC against
sure to have loot in its cave with itlook there for your it is 17 and, if successfully used, it will last 7 days as long
reward if the name of giantcatcher is not enough. as the characters do not push the loyalty issue too much
on BoomTah.)
Once this issue comes up, make sure the characters state
clearly whether they intend to be paid for this service. If How do we get in touch with you?
so, those who state that they will accept payment get
Just send a man someone to the borderpost here in town.
their 17 additional gold pieces, but do not receive the
Ill either be there or someone there can find me within
favor or optional training nor can they count this round
the hour.
as a military round.
Is this unlawful/illegal?
Youre kidding righta giant bard?
(Some players may be confused that, since this is not an
The Captain cracks a smile. I wish I was. Word has it the
officially sanctioned mission, it is in some way illegal.)
giants been up there for a while, collecting what
instruments he could. Who knows the callings of the Not at all. If I sent my men in, it would beI dont have
gods, but my scouts are sure the creature is using drums orders to do this and Im not sure the orders I want will
to excite his village and to communicate with others come. But you independent types can take the matter
deeper in the mountains. We need that information. At into your own hands and do it for the good of the
the very least, we need that communication network country, with or without orders. You have no standing
taken out. orders to the contrary, do you? I didnt think so. I have to
follow chain of command, and, as borderguard, I have to
What do you know of where the giant is?
wait on matters like this. The time I wait could cause
The Captain provides the party with a sheepskin map serious problems to any effort we might later launch, and
indicating a road heading due south into the mountains, so I ask you, for the good of the Yeomanry, to do it now.
crossed by various game trails and mountain trails, with a
variety of other features. This aint to scale, mind ya, but Encounter One: Into the
its pretty accurate. I had one of my best fellows mark it
out. The giants have quite the camp up here, he indicates Wilderness
a spot on the map with houses, at least a dozen or so at
PCs set off into wilderness, learn some wilderness lore,
the last counting our men brought back, with lots of
and prepare for the paths ahead into the mountains.
ogres, more than normal, and some goblins and orcs in
the mix. He stresses that attacking this base is not the As your party sets out into the mountains, following
objective. Orders are likely to come from Loftwick to go the roughly drawn map the captain has provided, you
ahead and attack the camp, and then the Captain will, but realize that getting there, while close on the map,
for now, he just wants as much information as the bard may take longer than you expected. A day in, you can
might provide. still see the lights from Shalehal.
Can you give us any help? Travel in the mountainous woods is difficult, often
taking hours to move only a few hundred yards.
(At APL 4, he volunteers this; otherwise dont even hint
Occasional valleys open up, granting good spots to
at it unless the characters ask for help directly.)
rest and relax before beginning the arduous climbing
The captain scratches his sleek black hair, pushing a stray again. The heavy woods on either side of the path
lock back behind his partially pointed ear. Well, make travel even more difficult.
actually, he digs into his pouch and pulls out a scroll
Allow each character to make a single Knowledge
tube. This heres an arcane scroll from that Dwarven
(nature) check as they head out into the wilderness,
fellow, Hurst Goldkettle, over in Tarris. Its a spell, that
assuming they have the skill. Make note of any who
charm monster spell, that should work on the giant if you
achieve the DC of 15 + the APL. Any who are successful,
can get close enough and get him to let his guard down.
or any druid or ranger with Yeomanry as their home
As he goes to set the scroll down, he pulls it back for a
region (they dont have to roll), will be aware of certain
moment, I get this back if you dont use it, yes? He
dangers they may face along the way well before they
looks to the more trustworthy present to secure such a
happen, and will consider and possibly inform others as
promise.
they set off. As they head deeper into the forested
mountains that hold their goal, characters could

encounter rockslides, sinkholes (even here, oddly), and character a single Listen check (DC 20 + the APL). For
possibly carnivorous plants, not to mention a wide those that succeed, tell them the following.
assortment of monsters that call the mountains home.
Having crossed the stream, you can hear your heart
Development: The purpose of this quick check is to give pounding away. At first, you think it might be
players some ideas (listed above) of the things they may something more, some other sound, but as you quiet
encounter and to give players the possibility of advanced the others to listen, the winds shift and the only
warning of what they face in Encounter Three. Feel free sound is the gurgling of the passing the stream and
to list as many hazards and dangers as you can conceive the buzz and chirp of nearby insects.
of, as long as youre sure to include the one they actually
A little further on, allow them to make a second Listen
end up facing.
check (DC 15 + the APL).
Also, in Encounter Three, those characters that did
A short distance on the other side of the stream, you
succeed here will know the quickest way out of the bury
find yourself and the others matching cadence. At
zone, as indicated there.
first, you smile at your groups natural affinity for one
another, but then you hear ita low thump beating
Encounter Two: Unexpected out cadence.
Guests At this point, characters can stop and all listen. In the
quiet, the DC drops to 12 + the APL. Any who succeed
PCs have chance encounter with orcs who, surprise,
will hear the same thinga slow regular thump beating
surprise, have a drummer with them.
out cadence. Anyone who succeeds at this third check by
Several hours outside of town, you find the game trail 5 or more, or who made both of the previous checks,
that Captain Dinalle told you about. Little more than realizes that the sound seems to be growing stronger, as if
a break in the trees at first, it becomes clear that this its coming this way.
is a game run, with a thin, softly trodden path leading
Cautious characters may choose to set up an ambush
deeper into the wooded foothills at the base of the
while others may head towards the drumming.
Hellfurnaces.
Adjudicate this as you will. Characters might choose to
At this point, have the players establish their marching retreat to the stream as an ambush site, or use a crossing
order. They will have to travel no more than two abreast, trail for the same purpose. They may choose to send a
as the game trail provides a little less than a little less than fleet scout forward, or head forward stealthily. However
a10-foot wide corridor through the woods and they prepare themselves, they are about to meet a war
underbrush. Others may flank as they choose, but party of orcs. The orcs approach from the trail, presuming
moving through the underbrush, without class or the route safe. Borderguard often hide rather than
magical means to counteract it, counts as double confronting such groups, shadowing them to find the
movement for difficult terrain. larger tribes and reporting back. As such, the orcs in no
way anticipate the presence of the party. Unless the party
The trail is slightly difficult to follow as other game
stands in the middle of the road or one or more of them is
trails cross it and zag off it, often crossing again a
spotted by the frontrunners, the party should be able to
short distance ahead. The sheepskin map that the
obtain surprise.
Captain provided does not show all the crosspaths
and the best you can do is follow his directions and Along the path from the direction you are heading, a
the main path as best you can. column of orcs appears. They march in cadence,
surprising for orcs except for the fact that they have a
Early on the second day of your journey, a break in
drummer with them. Somewhere towards the rear of
the trees indicates one of the purposes of this traila
the group, the constant thumping of some form of
stream, some five to ten feet wide at its widest and
drum keeps the orcs feet plodding along, almost in
naught but two or three feet deep at the deepest, runs
step.
down out of the mountains.
Creatures: Most of the squad are regular orcs, but a few
Allow the characters to approach this difficulty as they
of the members are exceptional--a cleric and his aide (
see fit. Crossing is not difficult and the characters can
bard) who have just returned from the giant camp.
simply walk across. Paranoid players, seeing it played out
on a battlemat, may ready for the expected attack. It
never comes. After they cross the stream, allow each

APL 4 (EL 6) trail the characters were following and heading back to
the ogre village.
Orcs (4): hp 7 each; see Monster Manual.
Treasure: There is other stuff here, but nothing of
Half-orc Brd2: hp 11; see Appendix. immediate or significant value, and any characters who
Orc Clr4 of Gruumsh: hp 30; see Appendix. wish to start stripping bodies need to do a weight
allowance check to see how many suits of nasty orc armor
APL 6 (EL 8) and sets of weapons they could actually carry. The
masterwork shortspear the cleric had is the only true
Orcs (6): hp 7 each; see Monster Manual. item of value amongst them as they were not at their
Orcs Bbn1 (2): hp 10 each; see Appendix. camp but on the road back to it.
Half-orc Brd4: hp 21; see Appendix. Development: This combat can play out many ways, but
in all likelihood the characters will effectively ambush
Orc Clr6 of Gruumsh: hp 45; see Appendix. and eliminate the orcs.
It is possible that the characters could capture one or
APL 8 (EL 10)
more of their opponents. If so, it is important to note
Orcs (10): hp 7 each; see Monster Manual. whom they capture. If it is one of the regular or barbarian
orcs, then, though the orc can be intimidated, it knows
Orcs Bbn4 (2): hp 39 each; see Appendix.
little that would be useful, other than to confirm that this
Half-orc Brd4: hp 21; see Appendix. is indeed the path to the giant camp.
Orc Clr7 of Gruumsh: hp 53; see Appendix. Successfully capturing the cleric or the bard, though, can
lead to some useful information. Both know of the giant
APL 10 (EL 12) drummer, the bard having actually studied with him.
Both also know the way and the general make-up of the
Orcs (12): hp 7 each; see Monster Manual. ogre village beyond the giants cave. Neither will
Orcs Bbn4 (3): hp 39 each; see Appendix. volunteer any more information than necessary and both
are smart enough to realize they are already likely dead
Half-orc Brd7: hp 37; see Appendix. and to appeal to the knightly-looking types, trying to
Orc Clr8/WrPrst2 of Gruumsh: hp 75; see Appendix. barter what they know for their release.
Tactics: It will be fairly simple for the characters to affect They can provide the characters will a safer route to the
an ambush at this point. The orcs are running two scouts ogre village (that by-passes Encounter Three). They also
regular orcs with Spot +1 about 30 to 40 feet in front can warrant a guess of about 30 ogres, a score of hill
of the main pack. Give these two Spot checks against the giants, and other stuff (like orcs and hobgoblins and
hidden opponent with the lowest hide roll. If neither of sometimes stone giants) at the camp ahead. They can tell
these two spot the party, then it is likely that none will, the characters that the giant drummer stays in the
and the ambush will happen where the party intends it to topmost cave in the wall the village abuts. Beyond that,
happen. they know little else of specific value.
Once attacked, the half-orc bard begins to sing, using his If the players do negotiate for this information, or obtain
Inspire Courage ability, which takes effect in round two, it some other way that ends with the orc or orcs being
giving his allies (the orcs) +1 to attacks, damage, and saves released, the orc(s) will move as quickly and as far from
against charm and fear effects. the party as possible before circling back to the ogre
village.
The cleric commands the orcs to head into the
underbrush, providing concealment (20% miss chance)
against ranged attacks as the orcs spread out and hunt for Encounter Three: Bombs Away
their attackers. PCs suffer effects of mountainous terrainlandslide!!
If more than half of the orcs fall, or if the cleric or bard And possibly a critter that caused it pissed off by the ride
fall, the rest are effectively shaken (-2 to attacks, saves, down.
ability checks, etc.) and will attempt to flee out into the The map leads you to a path that runs a hard slope up
wilds in every direction, eventually circling back to the the mountain. The path is rough, barely five feet wide
at points, and littered with debris and stepped

shelves. Ascending and spiraling around the crags Each character has three to six rounds to react, and there
provides a beautiful view into the heart of the are numerous ideas the characters may attempt. They can
Yeomanry. As far as you can see, the lands spreads flee upslope to escape the effects or try something else,
outward and slopes ever away, dotted here and yonder but need to be aware that the hard slope they travel on
with fields and orchards and freestanding copses of this treacherous mountain path is considered difficult
trees. Little villages, smaller now than a coin upheld, terrain, thus each square moved counts as two squares
are visible by the small wisps of smoke they give off. and running is impossible (see PH, page 148). The best
they can manage is a double move.
It is both a breathtaking sight and a disturbing one
you realize how fragile the land below is and how Any characters that do not move beyond the effects of
easily it could fall prey to the worst of the beasts and the avalanche are caught in it. Characters caught in the
savages that dwell here. It is not surprising so many bury zone (the center 250 feet) take 8d6 damage, half if
raise the spear and join to protect this land the only they make a DC 15 Reflex save. ALL characters in that
way possible: with the sheer numbers of people who area are buried.
will fight for their homes. You continue on, turning
Any character that does not move beyond the slide zone
around another spur and lose sight of the land below.
(125 feet on either side of the bury zone) take 3d6
Allow each character to make a Spot check at a DC 20. If damage, or none if they succeed at a DC 15 Reflex save.
any succeed, they see the rocks coming at 1500 feet away: Those who fail their saves are also buried.
Looking casually above you, you balk at what you see. Buried characters receive one chance to free themselves
What first looked only like a heat shimmer mirage is with a DC 25 Strength check. If the character cannot free
clearly something elsea wall of rocks rolling down herself, she begins taking damage for each minute she is
towards you! Avalanche! buried. Buried characters take 1d6 nonlethal damage per
minute (10 rounds). If they fall unconscious, they must
If none make this spot check, two rounds later, they can
make a DC 15 Constitution check or begin taking 1d6
all make listen checks at DC 15. If any succeed, they will
lethal damage every minute thereafter.
begin to hear (and feel) the low rumbling when the
avalanche is 1000 feet away: Characters who arent buried can help to dig out their
associates. Characters using just their hands can clear
The tumbling of loose rocks along the trail seems
away rocks and debris equal to five times their heavy load
muffled and the birds and insects fall silent as you
limit. The amount of loose stone that fills a 5-foot by 5-
hear what they do. A long, low rumbling sound seems
foot area is 2000 pounds (one ton, as per DMG, p 67).
to be coming from above you.
Characters with appropriate tools (picks, shovels, etc) can
At this point, any who look up will see the avalanche clear twice as much stone. (A Str 10 takes 4 minutes to
coming. Otherwise, the PCs automatically spot the clear a 5 x 5 square; a Str 20 can clear the same amount in
avalanche at 750 feet away. This avalanche is 500 feet 1 minute).
wide, creating a 250-foot bury zone with 125-foot slide
As the dust and small rocks fill the air and continue
zones on either side. The party is (1d6 x 20 feet) upslope
to clatter around you, you pick yourself up as best you
from the center of the bury zone. Avalanches of rock
can and take stock of your situation.
move at 250 feet per round.
At APLs 10 and 12, add the following:
Any who successfully made their Knowledge (nature)
rolls at the beginning of their trek (Encounter One) or Having survived the worst of the avalanche, you
any who make successful Survival checks at this point begin scanning for your companions. Nearby
(DC 15 + the APL) can quickly and effectively discern (hopefully) some of your party seems to be in about
that the safest course is to continue up the path out of its the same condition as you arebut back into the
way. avalanches detritus, where any missing party
members would be, you see movement. At first
NOTE: At APL 4, characters are actually luckythey are
concerned that it is a trapped party member, the dust
far enough forward that they are instead (1d4 x 10 feet)
parts to reveal a bulbous critter with three arms and
from the edge of the bury zone. If they continue down
three legs, a blinking eye between each pair.
slope, they will enter the bury zone, but any character
who was successful earlier or at the current check will Creatures/Avalanche: At APLs 10 and 12 the party gets
realize that they can more likely escape upslope. to discover the cause of the avalanchea party of
careless, ravenous xorn that ate their way through the
edge of a ferrous vein supporting a rock shelf. They were

aware of the vibrations in the shelf, but were too busy Encounter Four: Finding the
eating to notice as the subtle vibrations added to its own
by the party passing along the rock path below caused the Paths
shelf to split and fall. Now, well aware of what disturbed
Not far past where the avalanche occurred, the rock
the meal, the xorn is rather eager to vent its anger on the
path slopes back downwards, descending into a valley
party.
filled with evergreens. You can make out a small
stream further ahead on the mountain wall that drops
APL 4 (EL 3) into the valley as a waterfall.
Avalanche: slide zone only; 3d6 damage and buried; The sheepskin map you were given indicates that you
Ref DC 15 avoids both; see DMG, page 90. are to enter this valley, but skirt its edge inside rather
than heading deeper in, as the giant camp appears to
APL 6 (EL 7) be directly opposite the slope you just descended. It
Avalanche: bury zone for 8d6 damage and buried; Ref shows the symbol of three lines intersecting at their
DC 15 half (still buried); slide zone for 3d6 damage and bases, indicating a hole that Captain Dinalle said
buried; Ref DC 15 avoids both; see DMG, page 90. would show ya what yer up against. Apparently it
must be a small tunnel of some sort. However, you
see nothing of that sort here at the base of the path.
APL 8 (EL 9)
The three vertical lines are a symbol used in the
Avalanche: bury zone for 8d6 damage and buried; Ref
Yeomanry for military placements. Anyone who is a
DC 15 half (still buried); slide zone for 3d6 damage and
member of the Yeomanry military, or who succeeds at a
buried; Ref DC 15 avoids both; see DMG, page 90.
Knowledge (local Sheldomar Valley Meta-region)
Xorn, average: hp 45; see Monster Manual. check (DC 20) will realize that what they are looking for
is some representation of thisthe Yeomanry shield
APL 10 (EL 10) designin the wild, whether placed or natural.
Avalanche: bury zone for 8d6 damage and buried; Ref As the characters start looking for the tunnel, allow each
DC 15 half (still buried); slide zone for 3d6 damage and to make a Spot check (DC 20 + the APL) to notice the
buried; Ref DC 15 avoids both; see DMG, page 90. concealed entrance. Elves and Half-elves gain their racial
bonuses to this check, and anyone who knows the
Xorns, average (3): hp 45 each; see Monster Manual. meaning of the symbol (as noted above, whether they
Tactics: The xorn have no interest in dying and will knew it themselves or were told) gains an additional +4
abandon the battle with the party if they take more than circumstance bonus to this check.
3/4ths of their hit points in damage, simply blending Searching for the tunnel entrance that will show you
back into the mountain to escape. They are not interested the opposition, you head off around the valley wall
in parleying with the party whether anyone can heading north. The map, as you well know by now, is
communicate or not, and are likely to attack those who nowhere near scale and the bolthole could be a
try to speak to them. hundred yards or a dozen miles away. You eventually
Development: Regardless of APL, parties with skilled come to the stream where the waterfall you saw drops
outdoorsmen should fare significantly better than parties in. In spring, with the snow thawing, it is clear that
without such members, as they receive a clear direction this becomes a much more mighty river than its
to head for safety. Without this, characters are on their current trickle indicates. Looking to where it winds
own to decide whether to run upslope or down slope, through the trees heading north towards the heart of
without any way to know which direction will be safer. the Yeomanry, you see more game trails, indicating
that some creatures indeed move through this valley.
At APL 4, the characters are given an even greater chance
by being fortunate enough to move into the slide zone, as After a few more hours of skirting the valley wall as
the damage from the avalanche alone is enough to you search, (insert first successful spotter here) notes
destroy an APL 4 party. an interesting stand of three pine trees, rooted
together and melded into one at their base. These
trees seem to be a little higher than the others around
them, as if set upon a small hillock.

Behind this tree, on the hillock, is a small tunnel, covered ogre that disappeared after speaking with one of the
with brush. Having found the entrance to the tunnel, it giants.
is simply a matter of who will go first. The tunnel is only
Underfoot of these are at least as many orcs and
two feet in diameter, requiring characters to crawl. Those
hobgoblins, these two races fighting each other
with packs and heavy armor will find it impossible
regularly for the amusement of their larger allies. The
without stripping down. No weapon larger than one-
giants only seem to stop the goblinkin and orcs from
handed can be used in the tunnel effectively.
brawling once it looks like they will kill each other.
Fortunately, there is no threat in the tunnel.
This uneasy peace is also visible amongst the ogres,
The tunnel runs some forty feet or so before opening who can be seen swatting each other and squabbling
up enough for a man to crawl on his knees. It has over food scraps.
turned back southwest, into the mountain, and it is
Clear numbers are difficult, but the entire camp is
clear that some of the tunnel has been worked and
surely over two hundred strong in numbers with at
shorn up with timbers and supports. Any dwarf would
least a quarter of that being giantkin. There is no wall
be proud, save for the cramped spacing. But this is no
or barrier, only a space of about 100 feet cleared back
mining tunnelit is a secret bolthole of the
from the huts, more by the stomping of feet and
Borderguard, and as the lead person reaches the end
swinging of giant arms than by any set plan or reason.
of the tunnel, it is clear why.
The camp itself has a radius of several hundred feet,
At the end of the crawl space, after several hundred about three- to four-hundred feet from outside huts to
feet, a wooden ceiling lifts to reveal a sizable natural the center of the back wall.
cavern. Along the Northeast wall, three barrels rest
Depending on whether the characters learned the
and the floor has been smoothed by thousands of
location of the giant bard from the orcs or not, they are
boots. That same northeast wall holds a sliver of light,
now in the planning stage. Let them devise whatever
a crack no wider than a mans fist, running
plans they wish to attempt to either find out where the
horizontally. Standing on any of the barrels provides
giant bard is or get into the caves. Emphasize the sheer
a clear view of much of the valley as well as of the
numbers of giantkin gathered below and make it clear
encampment on the other side.
that a frontal assault will surely result in miserable
The barrels hold water; blankets, tack, and shovels; and results. Distractions, stealth, and misdirection are likely
rocks, used to seal up the break if necessary. In a corner the keys to success. Allow the characters to consider their
near the barrels is a satchel of leather holding a wooden options for some time before having the opportunity of
box marked with the emblem of the Yeomanry league more information present itself.
and indicating it as militia property. Within is a spyglass.
Treasure: There is no treasure in the bolthole beyond the
Without the spyglass, the encampment is visible, but
Yeomanry goods left for those who stay here. The
indistinct. With the spyglass, the situation becomes
spyglass can be taken but Captain Dinalle will eventually
much clearer.
discover that it was taken while the party was there and
Across the valley and against the far wall, the giant the entire party will fall suspect for its removal,
camp is plainly visible. A score and then some of sacrificing the Favor of the Yeomanry Military-Border
crude stone and wood huts easily fifteen feet high Guard and the optional training at the end of the module.
form a semi-circle about an open space that backs the
valley wall. Three distinct cave entrances are visible, Encounter Five: An Opportunity
and another lies up a slope some fifty feet above the
valley floor. The slope that leads to this higher cave Knocks
continues on up the mountain, circling around and
The encampment below is no small tribal gathering.
out of sight.
The sheer numbers of giants are overwhelming. As
An army of giants moves about, bringing in game as you consider your options, your lookout spots
they likely hunt this valley and several of the others something of interesta small group of ogres has set
nearby empty. This explains the lack of birds in the off down the main path, buckets and waterskins
valley, something that you hadnt noticed until now. aplenty amongst them. It seems they are headed out
At various points throughout the day, the party spots on a water detail. As these great oafs move down the
at least a score of ogres, a dozen hill giants, some path, they jostle and harangue each other.
other giants that are clearly different, one at least
Creatures: The squad of ogres sent for water gathering is
with red hair and beard, and at least one blue, horned
little more than the whipping boys of the giants, gaining

some of the worst, and most degrading work. They are Treasure: The possessions of the ogres is the only
angry at the giants and each other, but primarily at their treasure here.
own weakness. They will see any approach by the party as
a chance to curry favor with their leaders by taking heads Encounter Six - A: The
and meat. As each ogre takes damage though, its innate
cowardice will take over. One will play dead long before Encampment
it takes mortal wounds. Another, the last one standing,
The majority of the details of the camp are given above.
will surrender in giant, the only language it knows.
They are repeated here in slightly greater detail.
APL 4 (EL 5) The encampment is a rough semi-circle of huts around an
open space at the hub of that semi-circle, clearly a
Ogres (2): hp 33 each; see Monster Manual. cooking pit/ community fire/ common area of some sort.
The back wall, where this open area is, also holds three
APL 6 (EL 7) caves large enough to admit giants at ground level with a
Ogres (4): hp 33 each; see Monster Manual. third cave located some fifty feet above and accessed via a
slope that starts further into the camp back along the
valley, about half way to the edge of the camp.
APL 8 (EL 9)
The camp itself is some eight-hundred feet across at the
Ogres Bbn4 (2): hp 87 each; see Appendix.
base of the valley wall, reaching about four-hundred feet
into the valley with another hundred feet of cleared space
APL 10 (EL 11) beyond that. This area holds large, crude huts of dirt,
Ogres Bbn4 (4): hp 87 each; see Appendix. rock, wood, and thatch, a hodgepodge of oddly shaped
structures scattered all around with the largest such
Tactics: These ogres have little to lose in the battle and structures, the only ones likely to have more than a single
commit whole-heartedly initially before realizing that room, clustered around the central open area. If counted,
they dont want to die. They realize the party will have no a total of 27 such shanties exist, many with water buckets
chance against the entire camp, but have no intention of on one side of their doorway and waste piles on the
alerting the camp unless the party leaves the one playing opposite side. The dwellings seem to belong
dead and heads back to rest up or some such. If so, that predominantly to the hill giants, but it is clear that some
ogre will also be present when the characters enter the of the outer buildings are currently lived in by bands of
final cave (Encounter Six-A) and confront BoomTah. ogres.
This ogre, still wounded from the battle with the players,
will behave the same as it did beforeplaying dead as A total of 30 regular hill giants (as well as their
soon as it is wounded. If the ogre is there and does this, dependents, non-combatant females and young
one of the hill giants will smash him for his cowardice. numbering 12 more hill giants) are supported by a
disproportionately large number of ogres (about 30 total),
Development: The ogres, if any are taken alive, know the orcs (about 60 total) and hobgoblins (about 70 total).
layout of the camp and can easily be intimidated into Perhaps this is because of the powers of persuasion of the
sharing what they know. They will also tell everything if hill giant bard that leads this camp or perhaps it is the
they are let go, promising to leave the valley and never camps other giants that keep so large a group of chaotic
return. humanoids in checkthe camp also houses two fire
The ogres know that the giant bard is in the upper cave in giants, three stone giants, and two ogre mages. The racial
the rear of the camp and that he has guards with him. tensions in the camp are high, held in place only by the
They also know what those guards are, racially, though uncharacteristically charismatic hill giant, the currently
they can say little other than that. They can share that unwavering support of his fire giant guards from deeper
there is no guard schedule except at night and then only in the mountain, and the occasional brawl between packs
for some of the ogres and hobgoblins who simply roam of humanoids that keeps the ogres entertained.
around, but mostly they play dice and drink. Hill Giants (30): hp 108 each; see Monster Manual.
The ogres know little more than this, other than that Ogres (30): hp 33 each; see Monster Manual.
BoomTah (they can provide his name) is a great leader
and he will lead them to victories against the men of the Orcs (60): hp 7 each; see Monster Manual.
flatlands. Hobgoblins (70): hp 8 each; see Monster Manual.

Fire Giants (2): hp 147 each; see Monster Manual. but will hold at the village edge as the flight of the enemy
indicates victory to them.
Stone Giants (3): hp 126 each; see Monster Manual.
Ogre Mages (2): hp 42 each; see Monster Manual. Encounter Six - B: The Caves
The one thing the party might expect that is missing is
There are actually four caves along the back wall. If
the presence of worgs. It seems that the population
parties are inventive, daring, or just dumb in their
explosion that this encampment saw before the last
scouting or if they dont gain information that the bard is
winter forced the tribe to use the worgs they did have as
above from either the orcs or the ogres, then it may
food. They are planning to breed a new pack soon.
become necessary for them to enter these caves. Though
As the ogres that were gathering water will attest, there is not detailed extensively, the contents of these caves, and
no structured guard activity. So many ogres and giants of the bards cave above, are given below. All of the caves
are moving about the village during the day, that it seems have ceilings twenty- to twenty-five feet in height and
they need no guards. At night, it is another matter, as the most passages/doorways are ten-feet wide at least.
groups assigned to walk around as guards often pause or
stop completely in no discernable pattern. It is clear that Tunnel A
most nights these groups link up and spend a good
This tunnel, farthest to the left from the partys bolthole
portion of the evening near the central fire rather than
vantage point, is currently inhabited by the two fire
walking the perimeter, making sneaking up the slope at
giants. As such there are fires burning all through out its
night fairly simple.
passage and it gives off black smoke that stains the valley
The characters, however, may decide to do it their own wall black above it.
way. Let them do as they will, but keep in mind that any
Consisting of a large antechamber and two alcoves,
seriously botched rolls (such as Hide or Move Silently)
partitioned with hanging chains that are hot to the touch
could result in a wandering ogre casually spotting the
driven into the rock ceilings, the room holds little else
character in question.
but some large tree sections that serve as chairs and
Development: If the characters are dumb enough to tables. Many of these show scorch marks as well.
attack the encampment head on, kill them. They will
The two fire giants seem the least happy of the village
have chances to run, but it will become a race to get out
and take delight in smashing orcs and hobgoblins that
of the valley alive.
stray too close to them. Occasionally, they can be seen
The encampment, though full of dumb humanoids, is as speaking very close together and glancing up the wall at
big as are the humanoids are. Each round, the the bards tunnel.
encampment will fortify and reinforce, trying to simply
bring down any enemy foolish enough to attack them Tunnel B
with sheer numbers.
This tunnel is the deepest and, likely, most dangerous in
In the round following the attack on the encampment, a some ways. Heading deep into the mountain, this area
half-dozen orcs, three ogres, and a hill giant will enter the has been worked crudely to significantly expand its size.
fray from various points around the camp. Each round In the deepest parts, it is clear that such work still
thereafter, three more orcs and two more ogres will continues and during the day. Ogres, orcs, and
enter, looking to charge any unchallenged characters in hobgoblins labor here in shifts under the watch of one or
melee. Every fourth round, another hill giant will enter more of the stone giants.
the fray. Starting in the third round, and every five
Several side rooms sit off the central passage to either
rounds after that, an ogre mage, stone giant, or fire giant,
side. These house the ogre mages, some of the hill giants,
at the DMs option, will enter the fray. At whatever point
and many of the lesser races, stuffed into rooms to sleep
the DM feels appropriate after the fifth round, the giant
as tightly as possible.
bard and his personal guards can arrive and help as well
in whatever order the DM feels appropriate, though the A final few rooms, those furthest back, hold an odd
bard himself should stay fairly well protected. assortment of supplies and booty, stashed hodgepodge
around where the stonework continues. Mostly
Once the characters run, only two rounds worth of
mildewed cloth and clothing, there are also barrels of
creatures will pursue. The rest in the encampment will
grain and water, large piles of wood, salted wild game
continue to head to the direction the attack came from,
(that looks often picked out of), and other things the
tribe has acquired over time.

Tunnel C active, peaking about the instruments. If she is
approached in any way, or spoken to after she indicates
The final ground level tunnel, furthest to the right from
no intention of speaking, she will scream, calling out a
the bolthole perspective, is perhaps the best worked of
warning to those she clearly fears much more than the
the tunnels. Inhabited by the three stone giants in the
party. She makes no attempt to fight, only screaming.
camp, it has no less than six distinct rooms with furniture
(Consider her a regular orc with only 3 hit points).
hewn from the very rock itself. While more grand than
the central chambers, it is smaller, each room little more If they do spot her, use the following description.
than some specific areaantechamber, dining area,
Cowering in the crevice created by a box not set flush
storage room, and three bed areas.
with the circular wall is an orc female. She seems
terrified and hides her eyes as if she can make you not
The Bards Tunnel
be there by not seeing you. As you watch she curls up
With any luck, this is the only cave the characters enter. as tightly as possible, shrink from your gaze.
The slope of the rocky face is uneven, but wider than Beyond this first room is BoomTahs meeting room.
many of the trails you took into this valley. The cave
A thick carpet hangs at the back of the cave, covering
at the top is visible by the light that pours out from
a space almost directly opposite the entrance tunnel
within. Below, four orcs and an ogre pass a bottle that
and muffling the voices within. Beyond, another
the ogre summarily keeps as they toss bones for coins
room almost identical to the first in shape but slightly
around the common fire.
smaller in size holds a seven-foot high table and large
At the mouth of the cave, an antechamber is visible, tree stumps which serve as stools.
heading deeper in, its edges curving around.
If the players do not set off the orc in the first room,
The antechamber is roughly circular and some thirty feet BoomTah will be here. If it is APL 4, the voices were
in diameter. A short, five-feet long and ten-feet wide BoomTah talking to himself, trying out the sounds of his
corridor leads into this room. Characters will have to words, something he often does.
move into this corridor before seeing the room itself in
If orcs escaped the PCs in Encounter Two, the players
full.
who listen at the carpet and who understand giant will
A large circular room holds torches driven into here Boomtah discussing the orcs reportsomething he
sconces fixed in the walls, which illuminate a strange will listen to and think as many thoughts out loud as he
collection of artworks and instruments. A mismatch can on before settling on a course of action. If one of the
of tapestries, some little more than painted linens, are ogres escaped in Encounter Five, that ogre will be here,
hung next to crude cave paintings. Logs, boxes, having filed its report as well. (This ogre is not added to
stumps, and tables hold drums, flutes, pipes, and even the encounter list as it will play dead as soon as injured
dented brass-horns. Amongst these are the hands of and will likely be dispatched by one of the giants.)
what might have been these instruments players,
If no orcs escaped the initial encounter, the discussion is
some little more than skeletal remains, some still
more heated as the guards, more trusted advisors, point
rotting, and the freshest at least a week old.
out that the fire giants expect answers to their concerns
Treasure: Hidden amongst the other instruments are and that Boomtah seems inclined of his own mind.
pipes of sounding (at all APLs) and a horn of fog (at APL BoomTah will confess his desire to take his tribe on his
10 only). Characters will only find these if they search own without the fire giants, but little more can be heard
amongst the instruments or use detect magic (or similar as they conspire against the fire giants in whispers.
means) in this room.
A final room, off to the side of this one, is little more than
Any characters who enter the room visible will need to a box cut straight back. It houses BoomTahs bedding and
make Spot checks immediately (DC 20 + the APL) to spot personal belongings, as well as his human-skin drum, the
the orc female noncombatant hiding in the corner. She is first thing he will go after once the fighting starts.
doing everything she can to make herself unnoticeable,
Creatures: With any luck, the only creatures the party
as the attentions of the giant are not ones she enjoys. If
will encounter in combat will be those in the Bards
she is left alone, she will respond accordingly, letting the
Tunnel.
characters be about their fate. They may fail to notice her
at alleach character can make the check as they enter.
If characters use some form of magical or other means to
scout or enter the caves, the female is slightly more

APL 4 (EL 8) least the bare minimum of their objective. They will still
have to flee back they way they came, but the run will be
BoomTah, Hill Giant Brd1: hp 106; see Appendix. much less harrowing without the extra burden of the hill
giant and the ending less rewarding. Let them resolve the
APL 6 (EL 9) situation as they see fit, based on their own needs and
BoomTah, Hill Giant Brd2: hp 113; see Appendix. expectations.
Ogres (2): hp 33 each; see Monster Manual. If the characters succeed in taking BoomTah alive by
whatever means they contrive, the issue of moving him
then comes into play. Unless he is charmed or some
APL 8 (EL 12)
other way forced into walking co-operatively, it is clear
BoomTah, Hill Giant Brd4: hp 126; see Appendix. that he will have to be carried. He will struggle if
conscious and bound, trying to break free and realizing
Hill Giants (2): hp 108 each; see Monster Manual.
that, since they have already bound him up, they dont
plan to kill him. If allowed to walk, even under sword
APL 10 (EL 14) point, he will attempt to drag whomever is holding the
BoomTah, Hill Giant Brd5: hp 133; see Appendix. rope, forcing a strength contest to control his
movements. BoomTah will even try to walk right off the
Hill Giant Rog3: hp 131; see Appendix. edge of the cliff, hoping to pull anyone holding the rope
Hill Giant Wiz3: hp 115; see Appendix. with him.
Tactics: The characters likely encounter a very difficult The best way to move him would be to have him
battle here, made more so by the fact that they are trying charmed. The next best way will be unconscious, but
to take BoomTah alive. In that regard, his guards are good luck moving an 1,100 pound hill giant. Have the
more concerned with protecting him, meaning that they players actually figure out how to pull this off. Have them
may pass obvious attack options to move to defend check their own gear weight issues as well. It is possible
BoomTah, taking attacks of opportunity from the party if for an incredibly strong character (Str 18) to pull the hill
necessary and feeling their strength and durability giant by herself though her gear might present a
superior to that of any such puny creatures. Those who problem, but dont tell them this. Dragging also adds the
go after BoomTah directly become the primary targets problem of creating a readily followable trail unless some
for his guards. other measures are taken. There are numerous creative
solutions, but the initial run from the cave should create
Any guards present will immediately commit their lives a concern and a sense of immediacy the situation
to protecting BoomTah, fighting to the death rather than deserves as the party addresses this very real problem.
let BoomTah fall. If they gain any indication that the
party intends to try to take BoomTah alive, they will Unless the party lets BoomTah go over the edge,
redouble their efforts to take the party down or die however, there is little chance of the tribe discovering
trying. the situation until morning. If he does, those around the
fire, as listed above, will join the fight and the camp can
Though the battle in the cave may rage fiercely, none be considered alerted as outlined in Encounter Six-A.
below will come to help. As it is night, most of the camp
is sleeping. Those on watch will fear that either it is a Characters may take a different track all together,
coup they are not part of yet or the wrath of BoomTah splitting up so that some distract the camp while others
brought down on someone dragged in that they did hear try a grab at the giant bard. Let them devise their own
of yet. plan, but once the camp is alerted it will send out groups
of units as detailed above until the threat retreats.
BoomTah himself will begin chanting as soon as he can, Anything that already sees that threat will continue
grabbing his drum if possible and casting spells as able, or pursuing it, perhaps forcing the party to run separately
simply drawing his weapon and slashing away at any back on their way to civilization.
little vermin that come near him.
Treasure: The possessions of the creatures here is the Encounter Seven: Full Reverse
only treasure.
As the party flees into the night, make their situation
Development: If the characters cannot take BoomTah clear to themthey are moving rapidly back the way
alive, they can always simply kill him. As soon as he is they came, but now with a giant, how ever co-operative,
dead, they can retreat if necessary and have completed at in tow. Their tracks are going to be much more difficult

to cover and the giant is much easier to spot from just speeding away as fast as legs can carrya young man
about anywhere. It is early the next morning when the dressed in leather armor and carrying a spear running
sounds come. If they have slain or unsuccessfully faced through the fields. As you head on, you spot others,
the hill giant bard, adjust the descriptions accordingly. running along both sides of the road, but all at least a
few hundred feet off into the fields. They do not
Fleeing with the hill giant into the night, the sounds
pause, barely glancing at the party as they race on
begin just before the sun comes through the peaks.
ahead.
Horns first, and then drums and other strange sounds
join a cacophony of misery and anger. The message These are militiamen using the run option to move past
may not be discernable, but its intent is clearrage. the party as quickly as possible. The will maintain this
And just then, then sun rises over a break in the movement rate of 120 feet per round until all the way at
peaks about you, the bright light almost pointing you the entrance to the village.
out.
As you reach the outskirts of Shalehal, maybe some
The party will need to face the unsteady footing of the three hundred yards from the first buildings you see
avalanche site and the stream in the woods at the foot of why. A large contingency of militia, maybe three
the mountain again. As time permits, replay these in score strong, are blocking the road with a matching
reverse order, perhaps throwing a group of orcs or ogres number of armed shopkeepers and other citizens that
at the PCs if they are still strong enough to take it in have formed up in units to support this force backing
order to demonstrate that they are indeed being chased. them up.
If the party is hurting, have the party see the orcs coming
A single man, clearly a militia sergeant but not one
up the paths behind them, and allow them to visit the
you recognize, strides purposefully forward, sword
avalanche they met upon the orcs. Play up the chase as
drawn. Hold on now. Im Sergeant Zeke Millard.
much as time permits, keeping them focused on getting
Who are yall? And whats the meanin of this here? Ya
back out of the forested hills into the lands of the
cant be bringing no giant-like things up in here! The
Yeomanry.
only good giants a dead one!
Encounter Eight: Not in Here! At this, the assembled mob lets out a roar of
agreement.
Just when they thought it was over
Allow the players to negotiate this as they see fit. If they
As the trees change back to open plains and the sight bring up the name of Captain Dinalle, he will quickly be
of Yeoman fields appear in the distance, you are glad sent for and can resolve this peacefully by having the
to see civilization again, one way or the other. militia take over command of BoomTah under the
Captains orders. Characters who think of this can do it
If the characters have successfully captured BoomTah,
themselves, simply handing him over. Otherwise, the
allow each of the players to make a single DC15
sergeant feels fairly justified in denying the party access
Intelligence check at this point. Point out to any who
to the town until the matter is resolved, and he will give
succeed that, though they have BoomTah secured, they
the party as hard a time as he can, accusing them of being
might have a difficult time getting him into town.
giant-sympathizers and such until provided with
Inventive characters may devise ways to conceal the hill
reasonable explanation. Even so, this is likely this
giant, but unless these methods are put into effect hours
sergeants best chance to be a part of a giant killing
before they reach the city, this means marching a giant
without risking his own life, and hes somewhat eager for
through Yeomanry territorythe results are as can be
the claim.
expected without extraordinary methods.
Development: No statistics are provided for this
If they dont realize this before they get there or if they
encounter. The party simply needs to negotiate some
dont do anything about it, word will spread. The first
kind of deal with the sergeant, either by bringing Cpt.
farmer to pass them on the road who sees they have a
Dinalle into it or by handing the giant over to the militia.
giant will head to the nearest farm and start rousting the
Either solution is workable, the first being the best.
militia. By the time the party gets closer to Shalehal, they
Captain Dinalle will arrive and quickly back the party,
will start to see young men and women dressed in
acknowledging their bravery and, with a wink, chastising
leathers and carrying spears running through the fields
them for their recklessness. If the party hand the giant
towards town.
over to the sergeant, Captain Dinalle finds the party back
As you head back, it seems word has preceded you. at the Inn later, calling them with a note. He has gotten
About a half-mile from town you spot the first one, BoomTah back from the militia in not so good health,

but the medics are tending to him now. If the party killed blood that seems to hold his anger in some check.
BoomTah, then they must seek out Captain Dinalle. Well, I thank you for your time. I guess thats all
there is left to say. With that, the dark haired half-elf
Conclusion exits without looking back.
The PCs receive neither the Influence Point nor the
Meeting again with Captain Dinalle, the half-elf
additional training.
seems sincerely pleased to see you again. Well, lets
get to the debriefin then, shall we, he asks, looking
about for who will tell him your story.
If the party successfully captured BoomTah alive: The End

This is the best option and the Captain is visibly pleased
from the moment he sees the party, regardless of how the Experience Point Summary
giant was handed over.
To award experience for this adventure, add up the values
Im mighty proud of the lot of yall. Orders still aint for the objectives accomplished. Then assign the
come yet, but I expect that the attack order on the experience award. Award the total value (objectives plus
camps a coming. Without this Boomtah fellow to roleplaying) to each character.
back them up, their own bitterness will break them
up for easy pickings. Encounter Two
Defeat the orcs
The Captain also grants them a Point of Influence with APL 4 180 xp;
the Yeomanry MilitaryBorderguard (see the Treasure APL 6 240 xp;
Summary) and makes them an offer. APL 8 300 xp;
Ifn any of you want, I can have you trained as a APL 10 360 xp.
signaler, teach you some of this drum stuff we use Encounter Three
and that were getting from the giant. Survive the avalanche (and the xorns)
For one additional TU, characters who so desire can train APL 4 90 xp;
in the Borderguard station in Shalehal in signaling (see APL 6 210 xp;
the Treasure Summary). APL 8 270 xp;
APL 10 300 xp.
If the party successfully killed BoomTah: Encounter Five
The Captain is pained by this response as the capture of Defeat the ogres
the giant was what he had truly hoped the adventurers APL 4 150 xp;
would accomplish. However, he is still glad the giant is APL 6 210 xp;
gone. APL 8 270 xp;
APL 10 330 xp.
Well, Id a liked to ask that giant some questions for
sure but Im still proud of the lot of yall. Orders still Encounter Six-B
aint come yet, but I expect that the attack order on Capture or defeat the hill giant bard
the camps a coming. Without this Boomtah fellow to APL 4 240 xp;
back them up, their own bitterness will break them APL 6 270 xp;
up for easy pickings. APL 8 360 xp;
APL 10 420 xp.
The Captain also grants them a Point of Influence with
the Yeomanry MilitaryBorderguard (see the Treasure Discretionary Roleplaying Award
Summary), but not the additional training. Judge may allocate up to the following for good role-
playing
If BoomTah gets away or wasnt defeated: APL 4 67 xp;
APL 6 90 xp;
The Captain will be severely displeased and make it clear.
APL 8 112 xp;
So, you didnt kill him and now ya done stirred up APL 10 135 xp.
the anthill and run back here? The Captain looks
severely perturbed. You are glad for the half-elven

Total Possible Experience (Max. XP Allowed) C: Coin, Gems, Jewelry, and other valuables
APL 4 727 xp (675 xp);
M: Magic Items (sell value)
APL 6 1,020 xp (900 xp);
APL 8 1,312 xp (1,125 xp); Introduction:
APL 10 1,545 xp (1,350 xp).
All APLs: L: 0 gp; C: 17 gp; M: 0 gp.
Treasure Summary Encounter Two:

APL 4: L: 68 gp; C: 0 gp; M: 0 gp.
During an adventure, characters encounter treasure,
APL 6: L: 98 gp; C: 0 gp; M: 0 gp.
usually finding it in the possession of their foes. Every
APL 8: L: 130 gp; C: 0 gp; M: 0 gp.
encounter that features treasure has a treasure section
APL 10: L: 154 gp; C: 0 gp; M: 0 gp.
within the encounter description, giving information
about the loot, coins, and magic items that make up the Encounter Five:
encounters treasure.
APL 4: L: 8 gp; C: 0 gp; M: 0 gp.
The loot total is the number of gold pieces each character APL 6: L: 16 gp; C: 0 gp; M: 0 gp.
gains if the foes are plundered of all their earthly APL 8: L: 8 gp; C: 0 gp; M: 0 gp.
possessions. Looting the bodies takes at least 10 minutes APL 10: L: 16 gp; C: 0 gp; M: 0 gp.
per every 5 enemies, and if the characters cannot take the
time to loot the bodies, they do not gain this gold. If you Encounter Six-B:
feel it is reasonable that characters can go back to loot the APL 4: L: 36 gp; C: 0 gp; M: circlet of persuasion (375
bodies, and those bodies are there (i.e., not carted off by gp), pipes of sounding (150 gp).
dungeon scavengers, removed from the scene by the local APL 6: L: 11 gp; C: 0 gp; M: circlet of persuasion (375
watch, and so on), characters may return to retrieve loot. If gp), pipes of sounding (150 gp), +1 large greatsword (200
the characters do not loot the body, the gold piece value for gp), potion of eagles splendor (25 gp).
the loot is subtracted from the encounter totals given APL 8: L: 75 gp; C: 0 gp; M: circlet of persuasion (375
below. gp), pipes of sounding (150 gp), +1 large greatsword (200
The coin total is the number of gold pieces each character gp), potion of eagles splendor (25 gp), cloak of charisma
gains if they take the coin available. A normal adventuring +2 (333 gp), potion of cure serious wounds (63 gp), elixir
party can usually gather this wealth in a round or so. If for of fire breath (92 gp).
some reason, they pass up this treasure, the coin total is APL 10: L: 36 gp; C: 0 gp; M: circlet of persuasion
subtracted from the encounter totals given below. (375 gp), pipes of sounding (150 gp), +1 large greatsword
(200 gp), potion of eagles splendor (25 gp), cloak of
Next, the magic items are listed. Magic item treasure is the charisma +2 (333 gp), potion of cure serious wounds (63
hardest to adjudicate, because they are varied and because gp), elixir of fire breath (92 gp), horn of fog (167 gp), bead
characters may want to use them during the adventure. of force (250 gp), ring of protection +1 (167 gp), +1 large
Many times characters must cast identify, analyze longsword (194 gp).
dweomer or similar spell to determine what the item does
and how to activate it. Other times they may attempt to Total Possible Treasure (Maximum Reward
use the item blindly. If the magic item is consumable (a Allowed)
potion, scroll, magic bolts, etc.) and the item is used before APL 4: L: 112 gp; C: 17 gp; M: 525 gp - Total: 654 gp
the end of the adventure, its total is subtracted from the (600 gp).
adventure totals below. APL 6: L: 125 gp; C: 17 gp; M: 750 gp - Total: 892 gp
Once you have subtracted the value for unclaimed treasure (800 gp).
from each encounter add it up and that is the number of APL 8: L: 213 gp; C: 17 gp; M: 1,238 gp - Total: 1,468
gold pieces a characters total and coin value increase at the gp (1,250 gp).
end of the adventure. Write the total in the GP Gained APL 10: L: 206 gp; C: 17 gp; M: 2,016 gp - Total: 2,239
field of the adventure certificate. Because this is a Regional gp (2,100 gp).
scenario, characters may spend additional Time Units to
practice professions or create items immediately after the
adventure so this total may be modified by other
circumstances.
L: Looted gear from enemy

Special
Influence Point with the Yeomanry Military:
Borderguard
Captain Dinalle of the Shalehal Borderguard post
will speak favorably on behalf of this character, one time.
Characters can use this Influence Point for a variety of
effects, as outlined in The Players Guide to the
Yeomanry, available from the Yeomanry website.
Optional Training: Signaler
For one additional TU spent, PCs, who so desire, can
train in the Borderguard station in Shalehal, gaining an
effective rank of 0 in Profession (signaler). This gives
those who are trained the ability to understand basic
signaling, both using drums and flags. Those with ranks
in Profession (signaler) gain a +2 competence bonus to
that skill. This effect lasts for one year from the date on
this AR, after which time it can be renewed for an
additional year (each year) by spending an additional one
TU to return for re-training.
Items for the Adventure Record

Item Access
APL 4:
Pipes of Sounding (Adventure, DMG)
Circlet of Persuasion (Adventure, DMG)
APL 6 (APL 4 Items plus):

+1 Large Greatsword (Adventure, DMG)
APL 8 (APL 4, 6 Items plus):

Potion of Cure Serious Wounds (Adventure,
DMG)
Cloak of Charisma +2 (Adventure, DMG)
Elixir of Fire Breath (Adventure, DMG)
APL 10 (APL 4, 6, 8 Items plus):

Bead of Force (Adventure, DMG)
Horn of Fog (Adventure, DMG)
+1 Large Longsword (Adventure, DMG)

Appendix: NPCs
Encounter Six
APL 4
Boom'Tah, male hill giant bard 1: Large giant; HD
Encounter Two 12d8+36+1d6+3; hp 106; Init +0; Spd 40 ft., 30 ft in hide
Orc, male Bard 2: Medium Humanoid (orc); HD 2d6+2; armor; AC 20 (-1 size, -1 Dex, +9 natural, +3 hide armor),
hp 11; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 13 (+3 studded leather touch 8, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +9; Grap +18; Atk
armor), touch 10, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +1; Grap +3; Atk Masterwork Large Greatsword +15 melee (3d6+7) or Slam
Falchion +3 melee (2d4+4/18-20) or Javelin +1 ranged +13 melee (1d4+5) or rock +8 ranged (2d6+5); Full attack
(d6+3); Full attack Falchion +3 melee (2d4+4/18-20) or Masterwork Large Greatsword +15/+10 melee (3d6+7) or
Javelin +1 ranged (d6+3); SQ Darkvision 60 ft., light 2 Slams +13 melee (1d4+5) or rock +8 ranged (2d6+5);
sensitivity, Bardic music, Bardic Knowledge, SQ 10 ft reach, low-light vision, rock throwing, rock
Countersong, Fascinate, Inspire Courage +1; AL CE; SV catching, Bardic music, Bardic Knowledge, Countersong,
Fort +1, Ref +3, Will +1; Str 14, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 8, Fascinate, Inspire Courage +1; AL CE; SV Fort +11, Ref
Wis 6, Cha 11. +5, Will +6; Str 20, Dex 8, Con 17, Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 13.
Skills: Perform +5, Bluff +5, Diplomacy +3, Hide+4, Skills: Bluff+8, Diplomacy+8, Hide+3, Move Silent
Move Silent +4, Tumble +4, Listen +1, Spot +1. +3, Perform+8, Tumble+3, Climb +5, Jump +5, Listen +3,
Feats: Alertness; Spot +6
Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant. Feats: Cleave, Imp. Bull Rush, Power Attack, Imp.
Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Falchion, Sunder, Weapon Focus (Large Greatsword)
Javelin.; Spells: (known-5/0*) per day-3/0 Languages: Orc, Giant;
Spells Known 5/0* (3/0*; base DC = 10 + spell level): Equipment: Circlet of Persuasion, Lg Hide Armor,
0[Daze, Lullaby, Read Magic, Resistance, Summon Masterwork Large Greatsword.
Instrument] Spells Known 4/0* (2/0*; base DC = 11 + spell level):
0[Flare, Lullaby, Light, Resistance]
Orc, male Cleric of Gruumsh 4: Medium Humanoid
(orc); HD 4d8+8; hp 30; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 15 (+3
APL 6
studded leather armor, +2 large wood shield), touch 10,
flat-footed 15; Base Atk +3; Grap +7; Atk Masterwork Encounter Two
Shortspear +6 melee (1d6+1) or Shortspear +3 ranged
Orc, male Barbarian 1 (2): Medium Humanoid (orc);
(1d6+1); Full attack Masterwork Shortspear +6 melee
HD 1d12+1; hp 10; Init +0; Spd 40 ft.; AC 13 (+3 studded
(1d6+1) or Shortspear +3 ranged (1d6+1); SQ Darkvision
leather armor), touch 10, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +1; Grap
60 ft., light sensitivity; AL CE; SV Fort +6, Ref +0, Will
+4; Atk Falchion +4 melee (2d4+4/18-20) or Javelin +1
+6; Str 12, Dex 9, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 14, Cha 6.
ranged (d6+3); Full attack Falchion +4 melee (2d4+4/18-
Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant
20) or Javelin +1 ranged (d6+3); SQ Darkvision 60 ft.,
Skills: Concentration +10, Sense Motive (cc) +6,
light sensitivity, Rage 1time/ day, Fast Movement; AL
Knowledge( religion) +1, Heal +3, Diplomacy +2, Listen
CE; SV Fort +3, Ref +0, Will -2; Str 17, Dex 11, Con 12,
+5, Spot +1
Int 8, Wis 7, Cha 6.
Feats: Alertness, Combat Casting, Weapon Focus
Skills: Climb +7, Intimidate +1, Jump+7, Listen +2,
(spear)
Spot +1
Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Hvy Wooden
Feats: Alertness
Shield, Shortspear, Masterwork Shortspear
Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant.
Spells Prepared (5/4+1/3+1; base DC = 12 + spell
Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Falchion,
level): 0[cure minor wounds, create water, guidance,
Javelin.;
purify food and drink, resistance]; 1st[protection from
law*, bane, command, death watch, shield of faith ] Orc, male Bard 4: Medium Humanoid (orc); HD 4d6+4;
2nd[shatter*, hold person, inflict moderate wound, hp 21; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 13 (+3 studded leather
sound burst]. armor), touch 10, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +3; Grap +5; Atk
*Domain spell. Domains: [Chaos (cast chaos spells at Falchion +5 melee (2d4+4/18-20) or Javelin +3 ranged
+1 caster level), War (free martial weapon proficiency and (d6+3); Full attack Falchion +5 melee (2d4+4/18-20) or
weapon focus feat with deity's favored weapon)]. Javelin +3 ranged (d6+3); SQ Darkvision 60 ft., light
sensitivity, Bardic music, Bardic Knowledge,

Countersong, Fascinate, Inspire Courage +1; AL CE; SV Courage +1; AL CE; SV Fort +11, Ref +6, Will +7; Str 20,
Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2; Str 14, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 8, Dex 8, Con 17, Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 13.
Wis 6, Cha 12. Skills: Bluff+9, Diplomacy+9, Hide+4, Move Silent
Skills: Perform +10, Bluff +7, Diplomacy +5, Hide+5, +4, Perform+9, Tumble+4, Climb +5, Jump +5, Listen +3,
Move Silent +5, Sense Motive +1, Tumble +5, Listen +1, Spot +6
Spot +1 Feats: Cleave, Imp. Bull Rush, Power Attack, Imp.
Feats: Alertness, Skill Focus (Perform) Sunder, Weapon Focus (Large Greatsword);
Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant. Languages: Orc, Giant
Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Falchion, Equipment: Circlet of Persuasion, Potion of Eagles
Javelin. Splendor, Lg Hide Armor, +1 Large Greatsword.
Spells Known 6/3/0* (3/3/0*; base DC = 11 + spell Spells Known 5/2 (3/1; base DC = 11 + spell level):
level): 0[Daze, Flare, Lullaby, Read Magic, Resistance, 0[Flare, Lullaby, Light, Read Magic, Resistance] 1st
Summon Instrument]; 1st[Charm Person, Cure Light [Tashas hideous laughter, comprehend languages]
Wounds, Expeditious Retreat]
Orc, male Cleric of Gruumsh 6: Medium Humanoid APL 8
(orc); HD 6d8+12; hp 45; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 13 (+3 Encounter Two
studded leather armor), touch 10, flat-footed 13; Base Atk
+4; Grap +8; Atk Masterwork Shortspear +7 melee Orc, male Barbarian 4 (2): Medium Humanoid (orc);
(1d6+1) or Shortspear +4 ranged (1d6+1); Full attack HD 4d12+4; hp 39; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 13 (+3 studded
Masterwork Shortspear +7 melee (1d6+1) or Shortspear leather armor), touch 10, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +4; Grap
+4 ranged (1d6+1); SQ Darkvision 60 ft., light sensitivity; +8; Atk Falchion +8 melee (2d4+6/18-20) or Javelin +4
AL CE; SV Fort +6, Ref +0, Will +6; Str 12, Dex 9, Con 14, ranged (d6+4); Full attack Falchion +8 melee (2d4+6/18-
Int 8, Wis 14, Cha 6. 20) or Javelin +4 ranged (d6+4); SQ Darkvision 60 ft.,
Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant light sensitivity, Rage 2time/ day, Fast Movement, Trap
Skills Concentration +10, Sense Motive (cc) +7, Sense +1, Uncanny Dodge (Dex bonus to AC); AL CE; SV
Knowledge( religion) +2, Heal +4, Diplomacy +2, Listen Fort +5, Ref +1, Will -1; Str 18, Dex 11, Con 12, Int 8, Wis
+5, Spot +1 7, Cha 6.;
Feats: Alertness, Weapon Focus (spear), Combat Skills: Climb +10, Intimidate +4, Jump+10, Swim +6,
Casting, Leadership Listen +2, Spot +1
Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Hvy Wooden Feats: Alertness, Power Attack
Shield, Shortspear, Masterwork Shortspear Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant
Spells Prepared (5/4+1/4+1/2+1; base DC = 12 + spell Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Falchion,
level): 0[cure minor wounds, create water, guidance, Javelin.
purify food and drink, resistance]; 1st[protection from Orc, male Bard 4: Medium Humanoid (orc); HD 4d6+4;
law*, bane, command, death watch, shield of faith ] hp 21; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 13 (+3 studded leather
2nd[shatter*, hold person, inflict moderate wound, armor), touch 10, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +3; Grap +5; Atk
owls wisdom, sound burst] 3rd[ magic vestment*, Falchion +5 melee (2d4+4/18-20) or Javelin +3 ranged
bestow curse, invisibility purge]. (d6+3); Full attack Falchion +5 melee (2d4+4/18-20) or
*Domain spell. Domains: [Chaos (cast chaos spells at Javelin +3 ranged (d6+3); SQ Darkvision 60 ft., light
+1 caster level), War (free martial weapon proficiency and sensitivity, Bardic music, Bardic Knowledge,
weapon focus feat with deity's favored weapon)]. Countersong, Fascinate, Inspire Courage +1, Inspire
Encounter Six Competence; AL CE; SV Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2; Str 14,
Dex 10, Con 12, Int 8, Wis 6, Cha 12.
Boom'Tah, male hill giant bard 2: Large giant; HD Skills: Perform +10, Bluff +7, Diplomacy +5, Hide+5,
12d8+36+2d6+6; hp 113; Init +0; Spd 40 ft., 30 ft in hide Move Silent +5, Sense Motive +1, Tumble +5, Listen +1,
armor; AC 20 (-1 size, -1 Dex, +9 natural, +3 hide armor), Spot +1
touch 8, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +10; Grap +19; Atk +1 Feats: Alertness, Skill Focus (Perform)
Large Greatsword +16 melee (3d6+8) or Slam +14 melee Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant.
(1d4+5) or rock +9 ranged (2d6+5); Full attack +1 Large Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Falchion,
Greatsword +16/+11 melee (3d6+8) or 2 Slams +14 melee Javelin.
(1d4+5) or rock +9 ranged (2d6+5); SQ 10 ft reach, low- Spells: (known-6/3/0*) per day-3/3/0
light vision, rock throwing, rock catching, Bardic music,
Bardic Knowledge, Countersong, Fascinate, Inspire

Orc, male Cleric of Gruumsh 7: Medium Humanoid Greatsword +18/+13/+8 melee (3d6+8) or 2 Slams +16
(orc); HD 7d8+14; hp 53; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 13 (+3 melee (1d4+5) or rock +11 ranged (2d6+5); SQ 10 ft
studded leather armor), touch 10, flat-footed 13; Base Atk reach, low-light vision, rock throwing, rock catching,
+5; Grap +9; Masterwork Shortspear +8 melee (1d6+1) or Bardic music, Bardic Knowledge, Countersong,
Shortspear +5 ranged (1d6+1); Full attack Masterwork Fascinate, Inspire Courage +1, Inspire Competence; AL
Shortspear +8 melee (1d6+1) or Shortspear +5 ranged CE; SV Fort +12, Ref +7, Will +8; Str 20, Dex 8, Con 17,
(1d6+1); SQ Darkvision 60 ft., light sensitivity; AL CE; SV Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 14(16).
Fort +6, Ref +0, Will +6; Str 12, Dex 9, Con 14, Int 8, Wis Skills: Appraise +2, Bluff+13, Diplomacy+13, Hide+5,
14, Cha 6. Move Silent +5, Perform+15, Tumble+6, Climb +5, Jump
Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant. +5, Listen +3, Spot +6
Skills: Concentration +11, Sense Motive (cc) +7, Feats: Cleave, Imp. Bull Rush, Power Attack, Imp.
Knowledge( religion) +2, Heal +4, Diplomacy +3, Listen Sunder, Weapon Focus (large greatsword), Skill focus
+5, Spot +1 (perform)
Feats: Alertness, Weapon Focus (spear), Combat Languages: Orc, Giant
Casting, Leadership Equipment: Circlet of Persuasion, Potion of Eagles
Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Hvy Wooden Splendor, Cloak of Charisma +2, Lg Hide Armor, +1
Shield, Shortspear, Masterwork Shortspear Large Greatsword, Elixir of Fire Breath, Potion of Cure
Spells Prepared (6/5+1/4+1/2+1/1+1; base DC = 12 + Serious Wounds.;
spell level): 0[cure minor wounds (2), create water, Spells Known 6/3/2 (3/3/1; base DC = 13 + spell
guidance, purify food and drink, resistance]; 1st level): 0[Flare, Lullaby, Light, Read Magic, Resistance,
[protection from law*, bane, command, death watch, Summon Instrument] 1st[grease, Tashas hideous
entropic shield, shield of faith ] 2nd[shatter*, hold laughter, comprehend languages] 2nd[blur, heroism]
person, inflict moderate wound, owls wisdom, sound
burst] 3rd[ magic vestment*, bestow curse, invisibility APL 10
purge] 4th[ divine power*, inflict critical wounds].
*Domain spell. Domains: [Chaos (cast chaos spells at Encounter Two
+1 caster level), War (free martial weapon proficiency and Orc, male Barbarian 4 (3): Medium Humanoid (orc);
weapon focus feat with deity's favored weapon)]. HD 4d12+4; hp 39; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 13 (+3 studded
Encounter Five leather armor), touch 10, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +4; Grap
+8; Atk Falchion +8 melee (2d4+6/18-20) or Javelin +4
Ogre Barbarian 4 (2):Large giant; HD 4d8+19+4d12+16; ranged (d6+4); Full attack Falchion +8 melee (2d4+6/18-
hp 87; Init +0; Spd 50 ft., 40 ft in hide armor; AC 17 (-1 20) or Javelin +4 ranged (d6+4); SQ Darkvision 60 ft.,
size, +5 natural, +3 hide armor), touch 10, flat-footed 17; light sensitivity, Rage 2time/ day, Fast Movement, Trap
Base Atk +7/+2; Grap +19; Atk Greatclub +15 melee Sense +1, Uncanny Dodge (Dex bonus to AC); AL CE; SV
(2d8+12); Full attack Greatclub +15/+10 melee (2d8+12); Fort +5, Ref +1, Will -1; Str 18, Dex 11, Con 12, Int 8, Wis
SQ Rage 2time/ day, Fast Movement, Trap Sense +1, 7, Cha 6.;
Uncanny Dodge (Dex bonus to AC); AL CE; SV Fort Skills: Climb +10, Intimidate +4, Jump+10, Swim +6,
+12, Ref +2, Will +2; Str 26, Dex 11, Con 18, Int 8, Wis 10, Listen +2, Spot +1
Cha 4. Feats: Alertness, Power Attack
Skills: Appraise +2, Bluff+9, Diplomacy+9, Hide+6, Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant
Climb +13, Jump +17, Listen +6, Spot +2 Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Falchion,
Feats: Power Attack, Toughness, Weapon Focus Javelin.
(greatclub)
Languages: Ogre, Giant Orc, male Bard 7: Medium Humanoid (orc); HD 7d6+7;
Equipment: Lg Hide Armor, Lg Greatclub. hp 37; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 13 (+3 studded leather
armor), touch 10, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +5; Grap +7; Atk
Encounter Six Falchion +7 melee (2d4+4/18-20) or Javelin +5 ranged
Boom'Tah, male hill giant bard 4: Large giant; HD (d6+3); Full attack Falchion +7 melee (2d4+4/18-20) or
12d8+36+4d6+12; hp 126; Init +0; Spd 40 ft., 30 ft in hide Javelin +5 ranged (d6+3); SQ Darkvision 60 ft., light
armor; AC 20 (-1 size, -1 Dex, +9 natural, +3 hide armor), sensitivity, Bardic music, Bardic Knowledge,
touch 8, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +12; Grap +21; Atk +1 Countersong, Fascinate, Inspire Courage +1, Inspire
Large Greatsword +18 melee (3d6+8) or Slam +16 melee Competence, Suggestion; AL CE; SV Fort +3, Ref +5,
(1d4+5) or rock +11 ranged (2d6+5); Full attack +1 Large Will +3; Str 14, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 8, Wis 6, Cha 12.

Skills: Perform +13, Bluff +9, Diplomacy +8, Hide+7, SQ Rage 2time/ day, Fast Movement, Trap Sense +1,
Move Silent +7, Sense Motive +1, Tumble +8, Listen +1, Uncanny Dodge (Dex bonus to AC); AL CE; SV Fort
Spot +1 +12, Ref +2, Will +2; Str 26, Dex 11, Con 18, Int 8, Wis 10,
Feats: Alertness, Skill Focus (Perform), Combat Cha 4.
Expertise; Skills: Appraise +2, Bluff+9, Diplomacy+9, Hide+6,
Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant. Climb +13, Jump +17, Listen +6, Spot +2
Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Falchion, Feats: Power Attack, Toughness, Weapon Focus
Javelin. (greatclub)
Spells Known 6/4/4/0* (3/3/2/0*; base DC = 11 + Languages: Ogre, Giant
spell level): 0[Daze, Flare, Lullaby, Read Magic, Equipment: Lg Hide Armor, Lg Greatclub.
Resistance, Summon Instrument]; 1st[Charm Person,
Cure Light Wounds, Expeditious Retreat, Tashas Encounter Six
Hideous Laughter]; 2nd[Blindness/Deafness, Blur, Boom'Tah, male hill giant bard 5: Large giant; HD
Calm Emotions, Eagles Splendor] 12d8+36+5d6+15; hp 133; Init +0; Spd 40 ft., 30 ft in hide
armor; AC 20 (-1 size, -1 Dex, +9 natural, +3 hide armor),
Orc, male Cleric of Gruumsh 8/ Warpriest 2: Medium
touch 8, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +12; Grap +21; Atk +1
Humanoid (orc); HD 10d8+20; hp 75; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.;
AC 13 (+3 studded leather armor), touch 10, flat-footed
Large Greatsword +18 melee (3d6+8) or Slam +16 melee
(1d4+5) or rock +11 ranged (2d6+5); Full attack +1 Large
13; Base Atk +8/+3; Grap +12; Masterwork Shortspear
+11/+5 melee (1d6+1) or Shortspear +8 ranged (1d6+1);
Greatsword +18/+13/+8 melee (3d6+8) or 2 Slams +16
melee (1d4+5) or rock +11 ranged (2d6+5); SQ 10 ft
Full attack Masterwork Shortspear +11/+5 melee (1d6+1)
reach, low-light vision, rock throwing, rock catching,
or Shortspear +8 ranged (1d6+1); SQ Darkvision 60 ft.,
Bardic music, Bardic Knowledge, Countersong,
light sensitivity, Rally, Inflame; AL CE; SV Fort +10, Ref
Fascinate, Inspire Courage +1, Inspire Competence; AL
+0, Will +7; Str 12, Dex 9, Con 14, Int 8, Wis 15, Cha 6.;
CE; SV Fort +12, Ref +7, Will +8; Str 20, Dex 8, Con 17,
Languages: Orc, Goblin, Giant.
Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills: Concentration +12, Sense Motive (cc) +8,
Skills: Appraise +4, Bluff+11, Diplomacy+11, Hide+6,
Knowledge( religion) +3, Knowledge (war) +1, Heal +5,
Move Silent +6, Perform+13, Tumble+8, Climb +5, Jump
Diplomacy +4, Listen +5, Spot +1
+5, Listen +3, Spot +6;
Feats: Alertness, Weapon Focus (spear), Combat
Feats: Cleave, Imp. Bull Rush, Power Attack, Imp.
Casting, Leadership, Power Attack
Sunder, Weapon Focus (large greatsword), Skill Focus
Equipment: Studded Leather Armor, Hvy Wooden
(perform)
Shield, Shortspear, Masterwork Shortspear
Languages: Orc, Giant
Spells Prepared (6/5+1/5+1/3+1/2+1x/1+1x; base DC
Equipment: Circlet of Persuasion, Potion of Eagles
= 12(14 for enchantments + spell level): 0[cure minor
wounds (2), create water, guidance, purify food and Splendor, Cloak of Charisma +2, Lg Hide Armor, +1
drink, resistance]; 1st[protection from law*, bane, Large Greatsword, Elixir of Fire Breath, Potion of Cure
command, death watch, entropic shield, shield of faith] Serious Wounds.;
2nd[bears endurance, shatter*, hold person, inflict
Spells Known 6/4/3 (3/4/2; base DC = 13 + spell
level): 0[Flare, Lullaby, Light, Read Magic, Resistance,
moderate wound, owls wisdom, sound burst] 3rd[
magic vestment*, bestow curse, blindness/deafness, Summon Instrument] 1st[cure light wounds, grease,
invisibility purge] 4th[ dominate person*, divine power, Tashas hideous laughter, comprehend languages] 2nd
[blur, heroism, invisibility]
inflict critical wounds] 5th[Greater
Command*,Righteous Might ]. Male hill giant wizard 3: Large giant; HD 12d8+3d4+45;
*Domain spell. Domains: [Chaos (cast chaos spells at hp 115; Init +0; Spd 40 ft.; AC 18 (-1 size, -1 Dex, +9
+1 caster level), War (free martial weapon proficiency and natural, +1 Ring), touch 9, flat-footed 18; Base Atk +10;
weapon focus feat with deity's favored weapon), Grap +18; Atk Greatclub +14 melee (2d8+6) or Slam +13
Domination (gain the spell focus (enchantment) feat)]. melee (1d4+4) or rock +9 ranged (2d6+6); Full attack
Greatclub +14/+9 melee (2d8+6) or 2 Slams +13 melee
Encounter Five
(1d4+4) or rock +9 ranged (2d6+6);SQ 10 ft reach, low-
Ogre Barbarian 4 (2):Large giant; HD 4d8+19+4d12+16; light vision, rock throwing, rock catching; AL CE; SV
hp 87; Init +0; Spd 50 ft., 40 ft in hide armor; AC 17 (-1 Fort +12, Ref +4, Will +7; Str 19, Dex 8, Con 17, Int 14,
size, +5 natural, +3 hide armor), touch 10, flat-footed 17; Wis 10, Cha 7.
Base Atk +7/+2; Grap +19; Atk Greatclub +15 melee
(2d8+12); Full attack Greatclub +15/+10 melee (2d8+12);

Skills: Concentration +13, Decipher Script+6,
Spellcraft+8, Knowledge (arcane)+7, Knowledge
(geography)+5, Climb +7, Jump +7, Listen +3, Spot +6
Feats: Scribe Scroll, Cleave, Imp. Bull Rush, Power
Attack, Imp. Sunder, Weapon Focus (greatclub), Combat
Casting
Equipment: Lg Greatclub, Toad familiar, Ring of
Protection +1, Bead of Force.
Spells Prepared (4/3/2; base DC = 12 + spell level):
0[resistance, flare, acid splash, touch of fatigue]; 1st
[shield, ray of enfeeblement, mage armor] 2nd
[glitterdust, touch of idiocy].
Male hill giant rogue 3: Large giant; HD 12d8+3d6+60;
hp 131; Init +2; Spd 40 ft.; AC 23 (-1 size, +2 Dex, +9
natural, +3 studded leather), touch 11, flat-footed 21; Base
Atk +11; Grap +20; Atk +1 Longsword +17 melee (1d8+5)
or Slam +16 melee (1d4+5) or rock +13 ranged (2d6+7);
Full attack +1 Longsword +17/+12/+7 and Masterwork
Longsword +16 melee (1d8+6 and 1d8+5) or 2 Slams +16
melee (1d4+5) or rock +8 ranged (2d6+7); SQ 10 ft reach,
low-light vision, rock throwing, rock catching, Sneak
Attack +2d6, Trapfinding, Evasion, Trap Sense +1; AL CE;
SV Fort +13, Ref +6, Will +5; Str 20, Dex 15, Con 18, Int
6, Wis 10, Cha 7.
Skills: Appraise +1, Balance +5, Bluff +2, Intimidate
+2, Hide +5, Move Silent +5, Search +2, Sense Motive +4,
Tumble +7, Climb +8, Jump +8, Listen +4, Spot +6
Feats: Cleave, Imp. Bull Rush, Power Attack, Imp.
Sunder, Weapon Focus (longsword), Two-Weapon
Fighting
Equipment: Lg Studded Leather Armor, +1 Lg
Longsword, Masterwork Lg Longsword.

YEO3-06 - The Rhythm of Drums

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The Rhythm of Drums

by G. Havard Albright, Jr. and Donald Ward, III

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APL also affects the amount of experience you may gain 2 2 3 4 5

Time Units and Upkeep

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If the party successfully captured BoomTah alive: The End

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Treasure Summary Encounter Two:

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Items for the Adventure Record

APL 6 (APL 4 Items plus):

APL 8 (APL 4, 6 Items plus):

APL 10 (APL 4, 6, 8 Items plus):

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