BRPG Encounter Table: Trials and Blessings on the Journey to the Jordan

Encounter Table for Joshua 3: Crossing the Jordan

As the Israelites prepare to cross the Jordan River under Joshua’s leadership, tension and anticipation fill the air. This table features encounters reflecting the varying challenges and supports they may encounter along the way, including unique characters, significant objects, and divine whispers guiding their steps.

Table

Very Hurtful Encounters (1-5)

1. You are ambushed by a group of Canaanite raiders (3d6 health each, 10 AC, +3 attack). They demand your supplies and will fight fiercely if refused.
2. A hostile merchant falsely accuses you of theft, leading to a town guard chasing you. If caught, you lose 1d4 health from the skirmish.
3. A sudden mudslide near the riverbank knocks you down, causing everyone to lose 1d4 health and all equipment to be scattered in the river.
4. A deceitful prophet offers incorrect guidance about the river crossing, saying it is safe now when in fact it’s swollen and treacherous, resulting in a failed crossing attempt.
5. You encounter a disgruntled Israelite who blames you for the delayed crossing. In an argument, you lose 1d2 Charisma for the next hour due to stress.

Mild Nuisance Encounters (6-10)

1. You find an old, frayed map that misleads you around the river but is filled with inaccuracies regarding local terrain.
2. A local farmer offers you some bread but insists on outrageous payment. You lose 1d2 shekels for a loaf of stale bread.
3. You overhear two soldiers discussing fears about the crossing. You gain 1 point of anxiety, reducing your initiative by 1 for the next encounter.
4. A passing traveler warns of a potential flood but speaks in riddles. You gain a +1 to your subsequent Insight check to decipher local rumors.
5. A group of children playing near the river are curious about your journey and offer you 1d3 pieces of fruit, which however are all slightly rotten.

Somewhat Helpful Encounters (11-15)

1. You meet a wise elder who shares valuable advice: “The waters will part for those with faith. Bring the Ark close.” Gain +1 on your next religious check.
2. You discover a hidden cache of tools: a sturdy wooden staff (+1 to attack) and a set of fishing nets that can be used to catch food.
3. A young boy helps you navigate the river’s edge, providing +2 to your next navigation roll.
4. You find a small pouch containing 10 shekels, enough for minor supplies in your next town stop.
5. A seasoned warrior shares a short story about the crossing of the Red Sea, providing inspiration: +1 to morale for the next encounter.

Very Helpful Encounters (16-20)

1. You find an ancient inscription promising divine protection during your crossing. Gain +2 to defense as you feel a renewed sense of purpose.
2. A priest from the tribe of Levi offers you two small consecrated stones that grant a +1 to your next religious or persuasive attempt.
3. A local fisherman provides you with fresh fish that can restore 1d4 health to your party when cooked.
4. You encounter a band of Levites carrying the Ark of the Covenant. They bless your journey, granting +1 Wisdom to all party members for the crossing.
5. You assist a family in distress, gaining their favor. They later offer you refuge, granting you a safe place to rest without fear of attack.

Extremely Helpful Encounters (21-25)

1. A vision appears before you in the water as you pray, affirming that the river will indeed part. Gain a +3 bonus to your next crossing effort.
2. You meet Rahab’s relatives who offer crucial intelligence about the Canaanite defenses across the river. Gain +2 to your next strategy roll.
3. You find an old horn used in celebrations, rumored to have once aided in victories. Use it to boost morale, granting +1 initiative to your party for the next encounter.
4. A healing well is discovered nearby; if you take a moment to rest, each member of your party regains 1d4 health.
5. While exploring, you discover a hidden cave with the bones of a great warrior, inspiring tales of bravery; all party members gain a +1 to attack rolls for the next battle.

Biblical Trivia Encounter Mechanic

As you prepare for the crossing, you gather around to share knowledge about the journey ahead. Roll 1d20 and add the number of correct answers to the following trivia questions.

Trivia Questions

1. What was the key object the priests were commanded to carry as they approached the Jordan River? (Hardest)
2. How did the people of Israel know when to move forward after the priests? (Hard)
3. What miraculously happened to the Jordan River when the priests stepped into it? (Medium)
4. What promise did the Lord make about crossing the Jordan? (Easy)
5. Who was leading the Israelites when they approached the Jordan? (Very Easy)

Correct answers will enhance your journey. The final result of your roll can range from 1 to 25, reflecting your success in this endeavor.

Correct Answers

• 1. The Ark of the Covenant
• 2. When the Ark was in motion
• 3. The waters stopped flowing and piled up
• 4. That He would exalt Joshua in the eyes of Israel
• 5. Joshua