Periclymenus

“Meet Periclymenus: The Shapeshifting Hero Who Faced Herakles and Defended Pylos!”

• Alias: None recorded
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Warrior, Argonaut
• Religion: Hellenic Pantheon
• Allies: Argonauts, fellow warriors
• Enemies: Herakles (Hercules), during the conflict between Pylos and Herakles
• Abode/Base of Operations: Pylos, Greece
• Nationality: Greek
• Languages: Ancient Greek
• Alignment: Neutral or Neutral Good
• Affiliation(s): Argonauts, Neleus’ family
• Significant Others: Family members, including his father Neleus and brothers like Nestor

Periclymenus, a figure from Greek mythology, stands as a remarkable hero in the annals of ancient tales. As the eldest son of King Neleus and Chloris, he emerges as a notable character among the Pylian royalty. Blessed with the extraordinary gift of shape-shifting by his grandfather Poseidon, Periclymenus possesses the uncanny ability to transform himself into various creatures at will.

Born into the lineage of gods and noble lineage, Periclymenus’s life is intertwined with a sense of destiny. He bears the weight of a unique power bestowed upon him by the mighty Poseidon, a testament to his exceptional potential. Fueled by courage and curiosity, he strives to explore the depths of his shape-shifting abilities, each transformation revealing a new facet of his character.

Periclymenus’s existence, however, is not without its challenges. His world is one of conflict, as he finds himself at the crossroads of war and heroism. Aligning himself with the ranks of the Argonauts, he embarks on a journey of camaraderie and adventure. Though his presence in the Argonautic expedition might not be as prominently portrayed as others, his participation is a testament to his valor and dedication to a larger cause.

Yet, it is his final moments that etch his name into the annals of mythology. As Pylos faces the onslaught of Herakles, the hero’s resolute spirit ignites. In a battle that mirrors the clash of titans, Periclymenus’s transformation takes center stage. Fending off the invincible Herakles, he shifts from creature to creature, an embodiment of his resilience and unwavering determination. Amidst the chaos and danger, his desire to protect his homeland and his kin shines bright.

But like all tales, Periclymenus’s story finds its tragic conclusion. His efforts, despite his extraordinary abilities, prove insufficient in the face of Herakles’s might. In a poignant climax, he meets his end in the form of an eagle, a creature synonymous with the divine. It is in this moment that the hero’s struggle comes to an end, leaving a legacy that speaks to his courage, his sacrifice, and the unique talents he wielded.

Periclymenus’s tale, marked by its highs and lows, is a reflection of his complex character. His journey, filled with exploration, heroism, and the inevitability of fate, stands as a testament to the intricate tapestry of Greek mythology—a tapestry woven with gods, heroes, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to shape their destinies.

Periclymenus, Shapeshifting Guardian

Medium humanoid (human), neutral good

Armor Class 16 (natural armor) Hit Points 136 (16d8 + 64) Speed 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
16	14	18	10	12	14
(+3)	(+2)	(+4)	(+0)	(+1)	(+2)

Saving Throws Con +7, Wis +4 Skills Perception +4, Insight +4 Senses Passive Perception 14 Languages Common Challenge 7 (2,900 XP)

Shapechanger. Periclymenus can use a bonus action to polymorph into a Small or Medium animal he has seen, or back into his true form. His statistics, other than his size, are the same in each form. Any equipment he is wearing or carrying isn’t transformed. He reverts to his true form if he dies.

Protean Resilience. Periclymenus has advantage on saving throws against being restrained, paralyzed, or polymorphed.

ACTIONS

Multiattack. Periclymenus makes two attacks: one with his shortsword and one with his shield bash.

Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage.

Shield Bash. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d4 + 4) bludgeoning damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

Eagle Strike (Recharge 5-6). Periclymenus transforms into a majestic eagle and swoops down at an enemy. Ranged Spell Attack: +5 to hit, range 60 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 3) slashing damage. If the attack hits, the target must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

REACTIONS

Shifting Defense. When Periclymenus is hit by a melee attack, he can use his reaction to shift into the form of a snake, granting him resistance to the damage from that attack.

LEGENDARY ACTIONS

Periclymenus can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from the options below. Only one legendary action option can be used at a time, and only at the end of another creature’s turn. Periclymenus regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

Shape Shift. Periclymenus changes form into an animal he has seen before.

Eagle’s Flight (Costs 2 Actions). Periclymenus transforms into an eagle and flies up to his movement speed, avoiding opportunity attacks.

Protean Resilience (Costs 3 Actions). Periclymenus uses his protean energy to grant himself or an ally within 30 feet advantage on a saving throw against a spell or effect.

EQUIPMENT

• Shortsword
• Shield
• Studded Leather Armor
• Explorer’s Pack
• Amulet of Protean Transformation (magic item that grants him the Shapechanger ability and Protean Resilience)

MAGIC ITEMS

Amulet of Protean Transformation. This amulet grants Periclymenus the ability to shapeshift into various forms and enhances his resilience against magical effects. It is a relic of his lineage, a gift from Poseidon himself.

Periclymenus is a heroic guardian of Pylos, bestowed with the power to shapeshift and defend his people against any threat. His versatile combat abilities, combined with his protean resilience, make him a formidable foe to anyone who threatens his homeland. He embodies the spirit of adaptability and protection, using his unique abilities to safeguard his allies and maintain peace in the realm.

Currently in the World

Periclymenus stands tall with a robust build, a testament to his warrior heritage. His sun-kissed skin speaks of days spent outdoors, and his gaze holds a certain intensity that hints at both determination and a touch of introspection. Wavy hair, the color of rich earth, frames his face, falling gracefully to his shoulders. His features are chiseled, and a few battle scars mar his skin, silent reminders of his past exploits.

Currently, Periclymenus finds himself in the midst of a bustling market square, surrounded by merchants hawking their wares and eager customers. His posture exudes a sense of alertness, his eyes scanning the crowd with a focused intensity. He carries himself with the confidence of a seasoned warrior, every movement reflecting a lifetime of training and battle-hardened experience. Dressed in simple yet sturdy clothing, his attire includes leather armor that showcases his physique without hindering his agility.

A mixture of emotions crosses his face as he observes the market scene. While a flicker of nostalgia brings a hint of warmth to his expression, a layer of seriousness underlines his features. The memories of his past adventures, the camaraderie of his fellow Argonauts, and the challenges he faced flood his mind, tugging at his emotions. Periclymenus’ current surroundings serve as a stark contrast to the battlefield, yet his warrior’s instincts remain finely tuned, ready to respond to any potential threat.

As he stands amidst the crowd, Periclymenus’ mood is a blend of contemplation and a lingering sense of duty. Though the years have passed since his days as an Argonaut, his resolve to protect and uphold what is just remains unshaken. His current situation might be far removed from the days of heroics and quests, but the spirit of adventure still glimmers in his eyes, waiting for the right call to action.