The Scales of War adventure path reached the end of heroic tier in The Temple Between. It's possible, however, that your PCs haven't quite made it to 11th level yet, and that's an important milestone before pressing on. "Fist of Mourning" is the perfect bridge to lead five 10th-level characters into paragon tier and to set the stage for what comes next. Although designed as a short scenario for adventuring parties participating in the "Scales of War" adventure path, you can adapt it for use in a mountainous region of any game world and for any campaign.

While lords and heroes alike look to the brimming war spilling across the lands, evil blossoms in places unexpected. With the realm, and possibly the world, teetering on destruction's precipice, new factions rise to work their wickedness. One such menace is the Cult of Exquisite Agony, a disturbed cabal dedicated to perfecting mortal flesh by infusing it with the essence of chaos to make it more adaptable, stronger, faster, and better. Gathering in a fallen hero's tomb high in the Stonehome Mountains, this cult commits horrific acts hidden from those who cannot comprehend their effort's magnificent end. Though careful to avoid attention, success's proximity has made them sloppy, and their deeds leave traces that those with courage and resolve can follow.