BRPG Encounter Table: Political Intrigues and Encounters in Solomon’s Court

Encounters in the Time of Solomon

This encounter table is designed for a party navigating the intrigues of early Israel during the reign of King Solomon, specifically referencing events in 1 Kings 2. The characters may find themselves in a politically charged environment close to Jerusalem, where they face the challenges of loyalty, threats, and the ambition of those surrounding the new king.

Table

Extremely Hurtful Encounters (1-5)

1. A rabble of disloyal supporters of Adonijah ambushes the party. They have 5 HP, 2 attack strength, and an AC of 12. If defeated, the party suffers a -1 to reputation in Jerusalem.
2. While exploring, the party is caught in a smear campaign led by Joab’s supporters, resulting in a -2 to charisma until they clear their name through actions or words.
3. The party encounters a false prophet, who claims to have a revelation from God. He misleads them, resulting in a -1 to wisdom as they take his words to heart.
4. A local merchant attempts to swindle the party by offering overpriced supplies, claiming they are “blessed.” They must succeed a charisma check to avoid losing 10 gold pieces.
5. While investigating truth in rumors, the party unwittingly reveals critical secrets of King Solomon’s court, drawing unwanted attention and a -2 to stealth until the next major event.

Mild Nuisance Encounters (6-10)

1. The party is delayed by a crowd demanding justice for a local wronged citizen; involvement costs them 1 hour of time, but they gain a +1 to reputation for helping.
2. A rival factions’ spies observe the party as they discuss plans, resulting in a -1 to intelligence for the next strategic encounter due to fear of betrayal.
3. The local blacksmith offers repairs for weapons but charges an extra fee for every day the party delays; each day’s delay adds 5 gold pieces to the cost.
4. The party finds a scroll detailing King David’s last commands. It gives them insight and a +1 bonus to diplomacy in court, but may attract unwanted attention.
5. A local farmer shares rumors about the royal court, giving helpful leads but costing the party 2 gold pieces for “information.”

Somewhat Helpful Encounters (11-15)

1. An elder provides the party with wise counsel that allows them to make a crucial decision about their next move, granting them a +1 to leadership for their next gathering.
2. The party finds an unguarded chest containing a worn-out scroll of the Song of Solomon, which grants emotional inspiration (+1 to charisma) when recited before others.
3. A group of locals invites the party to a gathering, where they can learn more about the political dynamics in exchange for attending and sharing a story.
4. In a market, the party finds an old shield, granting +1 to defense but requiring repairs that will cost 5 gold pieces.
5. A messenger delivers an important message from King Solomon, increasing their status (+1 to reputation) in the eyes of townsfolk.

Very Helpful Encounters (16-20)

1. The party discovers a hidden ally in Nathan the prophet, who offers significant advice about navigating the court, granting a +2 to intelligence for their next situation.
2. The party finds an ancient coin of high value, possibly worth 50 gold pieces, which can be used to procure favors or services.
3. A merchant offers to sell them a map that outlines potential locations of political unrest, giving the party a tactical advantage and a +1 to strategic encounters.
4. The party encounters a craftsman who gifts them with a finely crafted sword (+2 attack) in return for their assistance in finding a missing item.
5. A well-connected spy provides the party with critical information about Joab’s intentions, granting them a +2 to planning against potential threats.

Extremely Helpful Encounters (21-25)

1. The party is blessed by a priest, providing them with a spiritual boon that grants +1 to all Wisdom checks for the next day.
2. A friendly diplomat offers to introduce the party to King Solomon himself, giving them a chance to present their cause and potentially gain his favor.
3. An old soldier from David’s army gives the party a shield of great historical importance (+2 defense) in recognition of their efforts in service to Israel.
4. The party discovers a hidden cache of gold and precious stones, totaling 100 gold pieces, a boon for their future endeavors.
5. A prominent figure in Jerusalem asks for the party’s assistance in a mission that increases their status significantly (solid +2 bonus to reputation and social engagements).

Trivia Encounter

As the party navigates their quests and encounters, they can also test their knowledge of the events surrounding King David’s transition to Solomon’s reign in 1 Kings 2.

1. What was the command that David gave to Solomon regarding Joab? (Hardest)
2. Who did David instruct Solomon to show kindness, and why? (Hard)
3. Which character fled to the altar for refuge? (Medium)
4. Who was the priest that helped to anoint Solomon as king? (Easy)
5. What was Solomon’s first action in establishing control after David’s death? (Very easy)

Roll 1d20. Add the number of correct answers. Final result = 1–25.

Correct Answers

1. Execute him (Joab).
2. The son of Barzillai, for his father’s kindness.
3. Adonijah.
4. Zadok.
5. Settle accounts and eliminate threats to his reign.