Menelaus of Sparta

Discover the epic tale of Menelaus, the Forgotten Hero of Troy, and the secrets he holds!

• Alias: Menelaus of Sparta
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: King of Sparta, Warrior
• Religion: Greek Mythology (Worshiper of the Hellenic Pantheon)
• Allies:  Agamemnon, Odysseus, Achilles, Helen of Troy
• Enemies: Paris of Troy, Hector of Troy
• Abode/Base of Operations: Sparta, Kingdom of Menelaus
• Nationality: Spartan
• Languages: Spartan Greek, Common
• Alignment: Lawful Good
• Affiliation(s): Kingdom of Sparta, Greek coalition against Troy
• Significant Others: Helen of Troy (wife)

Menelaus, the legendary king of Sparta, embodies the essence of a valiant warrior and a symbol of honor in Greek mythology. Standing tall and proud, Menelaus possesses a regal presence that commands respect and admiration. With his well-built physique and a face adorned with a well-groomed beard, he represents the epitome of Spartan masculinity.

Driven by a deep love for his wife, Helen, Menelaus’s story is intricately woven into the epic tale of the Trojan War. When Helen is abducted by Paris, a prince of Troy, Menelaus’s heart fills with a burning desire for justice and the yearning to retrieve his beloved queen. Fuelled by a righteous fury, he sets out on a perilous journey across treacherous seas and battlefields, determined to reclaim what is rightfully his.

As the leader of the Spartan forces, Menelaus displays unwavering courage and strategic brilliance on the battlefield. Clad in gleaming bronze armor and wielding a formidable spear, he leads his troops with unwavering resolve, inspiring them to fight with valor and unwavering loyalty. Menelaus’s prowess in combat is legendary, as he faces formidable foes and engages in duels that echo throughout history.

Throughout his quest, Menelaus encounters both allies and enemies. From the wise counsel of the cunning Odysseus to the unyielding rivalry with the Trojan prince Hector, his journey is fraught with conflicts and alliances that test his mettle. Through his unwavering determination and unbreakable spirit, Menelaus strives not only to rescue Helen but also to restore honor to his name and safeguard the reputation of Sparta.

Menelaus’s unwavering loyalty to his kingdom and his unwavering devotion to his wife serve as his driving forces. He is determined to protect the honor and integrity of Sparta, ensuring its place as a beacon of strength and courage. His ultimate goal is to restore peace and order, not only for his people but also for the Greek world at large, thus cementing his legacy as a great king and a true hero.

Menelaus is a tall and sturdy man with a commanding presence. He possesses a regal bearing, standing with a dignified posture that reflects his royal lineage. His deep-set, piercing eyes convey an intensity and determination that befits a warrior king.

His face bears the weathered marks of countless battles, with a strong jawline and a prominent nose. Menelaus has a well-groomed beard and a head of thick, golden hair that cascades down his shoulders. His physique is impressive, showcasing the strength and athleticism honed through years of training and combat. Clad in ornate armor adorned with the symbols of Sparta, he carries himself with an aura of authority and power, inspiring both respect and fear in those who stand before him.

In the annals of mythology, Menelaus’s story stands as a testament to the strength of character and the indomitable spirit of a warrior. His journey encompasses the timeless themes of love, honor, and the pursuit of justice. Menelaus’s name echoes through the ages, a reminder of the triumphs and sacrifices of a legendary king who dared to defy fate and reclaim what was rightfully his.

Menelaus, King of Sparta

Medium humanoid (human), lawful neutral

Armor Class 18 (bronze cuirass, shield) Hit Points 250 (25d10 + 125) Speed 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
20 (+5)	14 (+2)	18 (+4)	14 (+2)	16 (+3)	18 (+4)

Saving Throws Str +9, Con +8 Skills Athletics +9, History +6, Intimidation +8 Senses Passive Perception 13 Languages Common, Ancient Greek Challenge 15 (13,000 XP)

Legendary Resistance (3/Day): If Menelaus fails a saving throw, he can choose to succeed instead.

Actions Multiattack. Menelaus makes two attacks with his dory or one attack with his dory and one attack with his aspis shield.

Dory. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (1d8 + 9) piercing damage.

Aspis Shield Bash. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d6 + 5) bludgeoning damage. If the target is a Large or smaller creature, it must succeed on a DC 16 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

Leadership Presence. Menelaus inspires his allies within 30 feet of him. They gain a +3 bonus to attack rolls and saving throws while they can see and hear him.

Reactions Spartan Parry. When Menelaus is hit by a melee attack, he can use his reaction to add +5 to his AC against that attack.

Legendary Actions Menelaus can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from the options below. He can only take one legendary action at a time and only at the end of another creature’s turn. Menelaus regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

Dory Thrust. Menelaus makes one dory attack. Shield Bash. Menelaus makes one aspis shield bash attack. Inspiring Words (Costs 2 Actions). Menelaus utters inspiring words to bolster his allies. All allies within 30 feet of him regain 10 hit points.

Equipment

• Bronze cuirass
• Greaves
• Corinthian helmet with a red plume
• Dory (spear)
• Aspis (bronze shield)

Menelaus is a legendary Spartan warrior, adorned in authentic Spartan armor. He wields his dory and aspis shield with unmatched skill, leading his troops with unwavering resolve and inspiring them to feats of heroism. His prowess in battle and natural leadership make him a formidable opponent, embodying the spirit of Sparta.

Trojan War: Roleplaying in the Age of Homeric Adventure

A Mythic Vistas Sourcebook for the d20 System

Written by Aaron Rosenberg

Menelaus is Agamemnon’s younger brother and king of Sparta. He is also Helen’s husband, and it is to avenge himself that the war began. Menelaus is a large, powerfully built man with red-gold hair and beard and handsome features. He is hot-tempered, and loves to fight, but he can also be kind and considerate when not in battle. His closest allies are his brother, Odysseus, and Diomedes.

Menelaus
Male human Fighter 15
Medium humanoid
Hit Dice	15d10+45; hp 127.
Initiative	+3
Speed	25 ft.
Armor Class	26, touch 13, flatfooted 23
Base Attack/Grapple	+15/+19;
Attack	+21 melee (1d6+7/17- 20, +1 keen bronze short sword) or +19 ranged (1d8+5, +1 throwing spear)
Full Attack	+21/+16/+11 melee (1d6+7/17-20, +1 keen bronze short sword) or +19 ranged (1d8+5, +1 throwing spear)
Space/Reach	5 ft./5 ft.
Special Attacks	–
Special Qualities	–
Saves	Fort +9, Ref +6, Will +5;
Abilities	Strength 18, Dexterity 17, Constitution 16, Intelligence 13, Wisdom 12, Charisma 15.
Skills	Appraise +5, Boat +7, Climb +5, Decipher Omen +5, Diplomacy +4 (+6 against commoners), Drive +8, Handle Animal +3, Intimidate +11 (+15 against commoners), Jump +4, Knowledge (tactics) +5, Ride +9, Spot +5, Swim +0;
Feats	Cleave, Combat Expertise, Distinctive*, Favored*, Fierce*, Great Cleave, Improved Trip, Noble*, Point Blank Shot, Power Attack, Quick Release*, Shield Swing*, Step-Back*, Weapon Focus (short sword), Weapon Specialization (short sword).
Environment	–
Organization	–
Challenge Rating	15
Treasure	–
Alignment	Chaotic Good

Possessions: +1 bronze panoply, +2 round bronze shield, +1 keen bronze short sword, +1 throwing spear.