Buy me a coffee“Euryalus, The Loyal Spear of Argos”
“Euryalus, son of Mecisteus, is a legendary Greek hero of many sagas—Argonaut, avenger of Thebes, and Diomedes’ loyal comrade who fought through Troy and entered the Wooden Horse.”
- Alias(es): Euryalus of Argos; Son of Mecisteus
- Gender: Male
- Race/Species: Human (Mortal, Heroic Lineage)
- Occupation/Role: Warrior; Hero of the Epigoni; Companion of Diomedes; Participant in the Argonautic Expedition (in some traditions); Veteran of the Trojan War
- Religion/Belief System: Follower of the Olympian gods (traditional Greek polytheism)
- Key Allies:
- Diomedes (close comrade and battle companion)
- The Epigoni (fellow sons avenging the Seven Against Thebes)
- Argonauts (in some traditions, fellow voyagers with Jason)
- Achaean (Greek) army at Troy
- Primary Enemies or Rivals:
- The Thebans (during the Epigoni campaign)
- The Trojans (during the Trojan War)
- Abode / Base of Operations: Argos (ancestral home)
- Nationality / Cultural Background: Argive Greek (Mycenaean/heroic age Greek)
- Languages Spoken: Ancient Greek (epic/heroic tradition)
- Moral Alignment: Lawful Good — upholds duty, loyalty, and honor above self-interest
- Affiliations / Factions:
- House of Talaus (Argive royal lineage)
- The Epigoni (avengers of Thebes)
- Argonauts (in certain traditions)
- Achaean host (during the Trojan War)
- Significant Others / Romantic Ties: None explicitly recorded in myth; strongest bond is his warrior companionship with Diomedes (often emphasized as a relationship of deep trust and loyalty)
Euryalus, son of Mecisteus, was a versatile Greek hero whose life spanned nearly every great mythic cycle—avenger of Thebes with the Epigoni, companion of Jason among the Argonauts, and loyal brother-in-arms to Diomedes at Troy, where he fought bravely, competed in Patroclus’ funeral games, and entered the Trojan Horse. Defined less by singular glory than by loyalty, duty, and endurance, Euryalus embodies the steadfast warrior whose quiet constancy upheld the very fabric of Greek heroism.
Heritage and Early Life
Born in Argos, Euryalus carried both privilege and burden. His father, Mecisteus, had joined the doomed expedition of the Seven Against Thebes, where nearly all the champions fell. From youth, Euryalus inherited not only his father’s name but also his unfinished cause: vengeance against Thebes.
Trained in the arts of war, he grew into a man of formidable strength and discipline. Yet unlike brash heroes who chased glory, his path was shaped by responsibility—first to his family’s honor, later to his comrades in arms.
The Epigoni – Vengeance for the Fallen
Euryalus’ first trial came as one of the Epigoni, the sons of the fallen Seven. Bound by oath and blood, they rose to finish what their fathers could not.
This time, the gods favored the sons. The Epigoni stormed Thebes, bringing the city to its knees. For Euryalus, the conquest was more than victory—it was the fulfillment of a lifelong burden. The shadow of his father’s death no longer weighed upon him. Yet, with vengeance achieved, he chose not to lay down his arms. The world still demanded heroes, and Euryalus was not one to turn away.
The Argonautic Tradition
In some traditions, Euryalus also sailed with Jason and the Argonauts in pursuit of the Golden Fleece. Though not the most famous aboard, his presence speaks to his place among Greece’s greatest brotherhood of heroes. Whether storming walls or braving seas, he remained part of the shared fabric of legendary deeds.
The Trojan War – Comrade of Diomedes
Euryalus’ greatest renown came at Troy, where he fought as the inseparable companion of Diomedes, king of Argos. Homer himself records his name among the warriors who competed in the funeral games for Patroclus—a sign of his standing among the Achaean host.
Through ten years of war, Euryalus stood as Diomedes’ trusted shield-brother, fighting side by side through the thick of battle. His courage was not measured in single duels like Achilles, but in constancy—the warrior who never faltered, never abandoned his comrade.
In later traditions, he is counted among the chosen who entered the Trojan Horse, enduring the terrible silence as they waited within, hearts pounding, knowing that discovery meant certain death. That night demanded more than strength; it demanded absolute discipline and faith in one another—qualities that defined Euryalus all his life.
Character and Inner World
- Motivations
Euryalus was driven not by personal glory but by obligation: first to avenge his father, then to stand by his comrades. His loyalty was his compass. - Fears and Conflicts
He feared dishonor more than death. To fail his kin or abandon Diomedes would have been the truest defeat. The weight of legacy haunted him, yet it also gave him purpose. - Goals
His aim was simple yet profound: to uphold duty, kinship, and honor. Unlike Achilles, who sought eternal kleos, Euryalus embodied philia—the bonds of brotherhood that made endurance possible. - Personality
- Steadfast and disciplined.
- Courageous but never reckless.
- Humble, overshadowed by louder heroes, yet indispensable in their shadow.
Legacy and Significance
Euryalus is remarkable not for a single shining deed but for his presence across nearly every great mythic cycle:
- Theban Cycle – as one of the victorious Epigoni.
- Argonautic Cycle – as a companion of Jason.
- Trojan Cycle – as Diomedes’ comrade and one of the men in the Horse.
He is a hero of breadth rather than singular fame, a thread weaving the tapestry of Greek legend. His story shows that heroism is not only found in wrath, cunning, or divine favor, but also in loyalty, endurance, and the quiet strength to fight alongside others.
Conclusion
Euryalus may not blaze across myth like Achilles, but his constancy shines in a different light. He avenged his father, upheld his comrades, and stood unyielding in the face of every trial. If Greek myth is a chorus of many voices, Euryalus is the steady harmony beneath the soaring solos—often overlooked, yet essential.
Without heroes like him—loyal, steadfast, and unshaken—the fires of legend would never have burned so bright.
Euryalus 5e 2024
Euryalus 5e 2024 (Mythic)
Euryalus, Pathfinder
Euryalus, Pathfinder (Mythic)
Euryalus, Son of Mecisteus
Medium humanoid (human), Lawful Good
Lore & Background
Euryalus, son of Mecisteus, is a heroic figure whose life threads through multiple Greek myth cycles. Born in Argos, he avenged his father’s death at Thebes as one of the Epigoni, and in some traditions sailed with Jason’s Argonauts. He fought at Troy as the trusted comrade of Diomedes, participating in battles, funeral games, and even the Trojan Horse.
Known for loyalty, courage, and steadfastness rather than flashy glory, Euryalus inspires allies and upholds honor. His armor, the Aegis of Euryalus, was forged by Argive master smiths and blessed by Athena, passed down from Mecisteus, embodying the heroism of generations. He carries the Spear of the Epigoni as his primary weapon and a finely balanced xiphos as a backup for close combat.
Stat Block
Armor Class: 18 (Aegis of Euryalus + shield)
Hit Points: 187 (22d8 + 88)
Speed: 30 ft.
Abilities:
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 (+5) | 14 (+2) | 18 (+4) | 12 (+1) | 14 (+2) | 16 (+3) |
Saving Throws: Str +9, Con +8, Wis +6
Skills: Athletics +9, History +5, Insight +6, Intimidation +7, Perception +6
Senses: Passive Perception 16
Languages: Ancient Greek (Common equivalent)
Challenge Rating (CR): 11 (7,200 XP)
Proficiency Bonus: +4
Traits
- Heroic Loyalty: When an ally within 10 ft. is attacked, Euryalus can use his reaction to impose disadvantage on the attack roll.
- Inspiration of Argos: Allies within 30 ft. who can see or hear him gain advantage on saving throws against being frightened.
- Mythic Resilience (1/Day): When reduced to 0 HP, Euryalus is instead reduced to 1 HP and may immediately make a melee attack.
Actions
- Multiattack: Euryalus makes three melee attacks (any combination of spear or xiphos).
- Spear of the Epigoni (Melee or Ranged): +9 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft.; one target. Hit: 12 (1d8 + 8) piercing, or 13 (1d10 + 8) if two-handed.
- Xiphos (Backup Weapon): +9 to hit, reach 5 ft.; one target. Hit: 10 (1d6 + 7) slashing. Light and versatile; can be wielded one-handed with shield.
- Shield Bash: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft.; one target. Hit: 9 (1d6 + 5) bludgeoning; DC 17 Strength save or knocked prone.
- Battle Cry (Recharge 5–6): Allies within 30 ft. gain 10 temporary hit points and may move up to half their speed without provoking opportunity attacks.
Reactions
- Shield Brother: When an ally within 5 ft. is hit, Euryalus may become the target instead.
- Counterstrike: When a melee attack misses him, he may make a melee attack against that creature.
Lair Actions (Optional)
On initiative count 20 (losing initiative ties):
- Rally of the Epigoni: Up to 3 allies within 60 ft. gain advantage on their next attack roll.
- Shield Wall: Allies within 20 ft. gain +2 AC until the start of Euryalus’ next turn.
- Inspire Vengeance: One ally may immediately make a weapon attack as a reaction.
Equipment & Magic Items
- Aegis of Euryalus (Rare, Legendary Heritage): AC 18; advantage on saves against fear. Forged by Argive smiths, blessed by Athena, passed from Mecisteus to Euryalus.
- Spear of the Epigoni (Rare): Magical; once per long rest deals extra 2d8 radiant damage.
- Xiphos (Backup Weapon): Balanced short sword; 10 (1d6 +7) slashing; can be wielded one-handed with shield. Backup weapon for emergencies or close combat.
- Hero’s Shield: Once per short rest, grants resistance to all damage to Euryalus and one adjacent ally until the start of his next turn.
Roleplaying & Tactics
Loyal, steadfast, disciplined; prioritizes duty and comrades over fame. Upholds family legacy and Argive heroism. Frontline protector and tactical warrior: spear for reach, xiphos for emergencies, shield for defense. Ideal as an NPC ally, rival champion, or mythic guardian with lair actions.
Euryalus, Mythic Hero of Argos
Medium humanoid (human), Lawful Good
Lore & Background
Euryalus, son of Mecisteus, is a legendary hero whose deeds span multiple Greek myths. Born in Argos, he avenged his father’s death at Thebes as one of the Epigoni, sailed with Jason’s Argonauts, and fought at Troy as Diomedes’ trusted comrade, participating in battles, funeral games, and the Trojan Horse.
His armor, the Aegis of Euryalus, was forged by Argive master smiths and blessed by Athena, passed from Mecisteus, symbolizing courage and loyalty. He wields the Spear of the Epigoni and carries a finely balanced xiphos for close-quarters combat.
Stat Block
Armor Class: 20 (Aegis of Euryalus + Shield)
Hit Points: 310 (23d10 + 161)
Speed: 40 ft.
Abilities:
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 (+7) | 16 (+3) | 22 (+6) | 14 (+2) | 16 (+3) | 18 (+4) |
Saving Throws: Str +13, Dex +9, Con +12, Wis +9, Cha +10
Skills: Athletics +13, History +8, Insight +9, Intimidation +10, Perception +9
Senses: Passive Perception 19
Languages: Ancient Greek, Common
CR: 17 (18,000 XP)
Traits
- Heroic Presence: Allies within 30 ft. gain +2 to attacks and saving throws vs. fear.
- Mythic Resilience: Once per day, drops to 1 HP instead of 0 and may take an immediate action.
- Guardian of Argos: May use reaction to redirect attacks aimed at allies within 10 ft.
Actions
- Multiattack: Four melee attacks (spear and/or xiphos).
- Spear of the Epigoni: +13 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 30/90 ft.; 18 (2d8 +7) piercing (21 two-handed). Once per day, deals +4d8 radiant damage.
- Xiphos (Backup Weapon): +13 to hit, 5 ft., 12 (1d6 +7) slashing; can be wielded one-handed with shield.
- Shield Bash: +13 to hit, 12 (1d6 +7) bludgeoning; DC 19 Str save or prone.
- Battle Cry (Recharge 5–6): Allies within 30 ft. gain 20 temporary HP, move half speed without provoking attacks, and advantage on next attack roll.
Legendary Actions (3/Turn)
- Attack: Make one melee attack (spear or xiphos).
- Move: Move up to half speed without provoking opportunity attacks.
- Inspire Valor: One ally within 30 ft. makes an immediate attack.
- Guardian Strike (2 Actions): Redirect attack to Euryalus and immediately strike attacker.
Mythic Actions (1/Day)
- Hero of Ages: Take an additional turn immediately; all attacks deal max damage; allies within 30 ft. regain 20 HP.
- Epigoni’s Wrath: Strike ground; enemies in 20 ft. radius make DC 19 Str save or take 6d10 bludgeoning damage and be knocked prone (half on save).
Equipment & Magic Items
- Aegis of Euryalus (Legendary): AC 20; advantage vs. fear/charm; forged by Argive smiths, blessed by Athena, passed from Mecisteus.
- Spear of the Epigoni (Legendary): Magical; overcomes resistance; once/day +4d8 radiant.
- Xiphos (Backup Weapon): Balanced short sword; versatile for shield use.
- Hero’s Shield: Once per short rest, grants resistance to all damage to Euryalus and one adjacent ally until start of next turn.
Roleplaying & Tactics
Bold, disciplined, fiercely loyal; inspires courage in allies. Frontline tank and buffer: spear for reach, xiphos for emergencies, shield to protect companions. Ideal as a mythic guardian, final boss, or legendary ally in Trojan War or Epigoni-themed campaigns.
Euryalus, Son of Mecisteus
CR 11
XP 7,200
Male human fighter 12 / champion 1 (Lawful Good)
Medium humanoid (human)
Init +2; Senses Perception +12
Aura Inspiration of Argos (30 ft., +2 morale bonus on saves vs. fear)
DEFENSE
AC 22, touch 11, flat-footed 21 (+8 armor, +3 shield, +1 Dex)
HP 150 (13d10+78); Fort +14, Ref +8, Will +9
Defensive Abilities Heroic Loyalty (allies within 10 ft. gain +2 AC)
OFFENSE
Speed 30 ft.
Melee Spear of the Epigoni +17/+12 (1d8+7/19–20, 1d10+7 two-handed; once/day +4d6 radiant) or xiphos +15 (1d6+7 slashing) or shield bash +15 (1d6+5, target prone on DC 17 Strength save)
Ranged Spear of the Epigoni +17/+12 (20 ft. range increment, 60 ft. max)
Special Attacks Battle Cry (5–6 recharge; allies within 30 ft. gain 10 temp HP and move half speed without provoking)
STATISTICS
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 (+7) | 14 (+2) | 22 (+6) | 12 (+1) | 14 (+2) | 16 (+3) |
Base Atk +12; CMB +15; CMD 27
Feats Power Attack, Cleave, Combat Reflexes, Improved Critical (spear), Weapon Focus (spear), Greater Weapon Focus (spear), Improved Shield Bash, Shield Master
Skills Athletics +18, Intimidate +14, Perception +12, Knowledge (history) +10
Languages Common (Ancient Greek equivalent)
SPECIAL ABILITIES
- Heroic Loyalty (Ex): Adjacent allies gain +2 AC.
- Inspiration of Argos (Ex): Allies within 30 ft. gain +2 morale bonus on saves vs. fear.
- Mythic Resilience (Ex, 1/day): When reduced to 0 HP, Euryalus drops to 1 HP and makes one melee attack.
EQUIPMENT
- Aegis of Euryalus (+5 breastplate): Grants +2 bonus on saves vs. fear
- Spear of the Epigoni (+5 spear): 1d8+7 piercing (1d10+7 two-handed); once/day +4d6 radiant
- Xiphos (+3 short sword): Reliable backup blade
- Heavy Shield +5
TACTICS
Frontline protector who fights with his spear and shield, switching to xiphos when pressed. Uses Heroic Loyalty and Battle Cry to guard allies, while Inspiration of Argos bolsters morale.
Euryalus, Son of Mecisteus (Mythic Hero of Argos)
CR 14/MR 3
XP 38,400
Male human fighter 12 / champion 1 (mythic) (LG)
Medium humanoid (human, mythic)
Init +4; Senses Perception +14
Aura inspiration of Argos (30 ft., +2 morale on saves vs. fear)
DEFENSE
AC 27, touch 12, flat-footed 25 (+10 armor, +5 shield, +2 Dex)
hp 190 (13d10+104); fast healing 5 (mythic)
Fort +16, Ref +10, Will +11
Defensive Abilities heroic loyalty, mythic resilience; DR 5/epic
OFFENSE
Speed 30 ft.
Melee spear of the Epigoni +22/+17/+12 (1d8+10/19–20, 1d10+10 two-handed; once/day +6d6 radiant) or xiphos +20 (1d6+9/19–20) or shield bash +20 (1d6+7 plus prone, DC 20)
Ranged spear of the Epigoni +22/+17/+12 (1d8+10, range 20 ft.)
Special Attacks battle cry (5–6 recharge; allies within 30 ft. gain 15 temp hp and move half speed without provoking), mythic battle cry
Mythic Power (Su) 5/day, surge +1d8
STATISTICS
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 (+8) | 14 (+2) | 24 (+7) | 12 (+1) | 14 (+2) | 18 (+4) |
Base Atk +13; CMB +21; CMD 33
Feats Cleave, Combat Reflexes, Greater Weapon Focus (spear), Greater Weapon Specialization (spear), Improved Critical (spear), Improved Shield Bash, Iron Will, Leadership, Power Attack, Shield Master, Weapon Focus (spear), Weapon Specialization (spear)
Skills Athletics +22, Intimidate +17, Perception +14, Knowledge (history) +12
Languages Common (Ancient Greek equivalent)
SPECIAL ABILITIES
- Heroic Loyalty (Ex): Adjacent allies gain +2 AC.
- Inspiration of Argos (Su): Allies within 30 ft. gain +2 morale bonus on saves vs. fear.
- Mythic Resilience (Su, 1/day): When reduced to 0 hp, drops to 1 hp instead and makes an immediate full attack.
- Champion’s Surge (Su): Spend 1 use of mythic power to add surge die to an attack, save, or skill roll.
- Unyielding Guardian (Ex): Allies within 20 ft. gain DR 2/– while Euryalus remains conscious.
- Mythic Battle Cry (Su): When using battle cry, affected allies also gain haste for 1 round.
EQUIPMENT
- Aegis of Euryalus (+5 mythic breastplate): +10 armor bonus; wearer gains +2 vs. fear and 1/day spell resistance 20 for 1 minute.
- Spear of the Epigoni (+5 mythic spear): 1d8+10 piercing (1d10+10 two-handed), counts as epic and good; 1/day +6d6 radiant damage.
- Xiphos (+4 mythic short sword): Grants +2 competence bonus on attacks of opportunity.
- Hero’s Shield (+5 mythic heavy shield): 1/day grants all allies within 20 ft. resistance 10 to all damage for 1 round.
TACTICS
Euryalus anchors the frontline, rallying allies with battle cry before pressing with spear and shield. He protects nearby comrades through heroic loyalty and unyielding guardian, and turns the tide in desperate moments with mythic resilience. His role is less about personal glory than being the steadfast bulwark of Argos’ honor.