Experience

Experience points are awarded by the DM at the conclusion of each adventure. If the party is engaged in a long, "epic" adventure, the DM will award experience after each major leg of the adventure, as soon as the party reaches a "safe" area.

Experience points are awarded nominally at a rate of 1 x.p. per g.p. value of treasure recovered, plus a variable amount based on monsters and other opponents overcome. Note that this doesn't always require killing the antagonist - if the opponent limps away barely alive, considerable "partial credit" may be given.

Also, the DM will probably award experience for accomplishing the main goal (or side goals) of the adventure. For instance, if the party rescues the princess unharmed, or recovers the mayor's prize bauble, there will usually be some experience awarded for a job well done.