Achaemenides, the Mythic Explorer

“From Captive to Comrade: The Epic Tale of Achaemenides, the Survivor of Cyclops!”

• Alias: None
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Sailor, Survivor
• Religion: Greek Pantheon (possibly worships gods like Poseidon or Apollo)
• Allies: Odysseus, fellow sailors
• Enemies: Polyphemus (Cyclops), creatures of the sea
• Abode/Base of Operations: Ithaca, Island of the Cyclops
• Nationality: Greek (from Ithaca)
• Languages: Greek
• Alignment: Lawful Good
• Affiliation(s): Greek heroes, sailors, followers of Odysseus
• Significant others: None mentioned or specified

In the treacherous world of ancient myths, Achaemenides stands as a survivor amidst the chaos. Once a captive of the dreaded Cyclops, this resourceful and resilient hero has endured unimaginable hardships.

Achaemenides is driven by the desire for redemption and a longing to find his place in the world. With a heart burdened by the memories of his past, he seeks to make amends for his past mistakes and find a new purpose in life.

Guided by his unwavering determination, Achaemenides embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking to carve out his own destiny in a world of gods and monsters. With each step he takes, he grows stronger, both physically and emotionally, harnessing his experiences to fuel his pursuit of justice and a chance at redemption.

Though haunted by the shadows of his past, Achaemenides finds solace in his newfound companions and the bonds of friendship he forms along the way. Together, they navigate the treacherous paths of ancient lands, facing formidable adversaries and overcoming insurmountable obstacles.

Achaemenides’ unwavering resolve and his unwritten quest to redefine his place in the world serve as a testament to the power of inner strength and the unyielding spirit of a true hero. His journey is one of self-discovery, growth, and the relentless pursuit of justice. With every challenge he faces, Achaemenides strives to rise above his past and forge a brighter future for himself and those he holds dear.

Achaemenides, the Mythic Explorer

Medium humanoid (human), neutral good

Armor Class 17 (hoplite armor, shield) Hit Points 120 (16d8 + 48) Speed 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
14	16	16	14	18	16

Saving Throws Str +6, Dex +7, Con +7, Int +6, Wis +8, Cha +7 Skills Arcana +6, History +6, Perception +8, Survival +8 Senses passive Perception 18 Languages Common, Ancient Greek, Celestial Challenge 8 (3,900 XP)

Actions

Multiattack. Achaemenides makes two attacks: one with his spear and one with his shortsword.

• Spear. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage, or 8 (1d8 + 4) piercing damage if used with two hands.
• Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage.

Legendary Actions

Achaemenides can take 2 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. Achaemenides regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

Inspiring Words (Costs 2 Actions). Achaemenides imparts ancient wisdom and inspiration to an ally within 30 feet. The ally gains advantage on their next attack roll or saving throw.

Ancient Knowledge (Costs 2 Actions). Achaemenides taps into his extensive knowledge of ancient lore. He gains advantage on his next Arcana, History, or Investigation check.

Equipment

• Hoplite armor
• Shield
• Spear
• Shortsword
• Explorer’s pack
• Scroll of Protection from Evil and Good
• Mythic Amulet of Insight (grants +2 to Arcana and History checks)

CR Calculation

Achaemenides is a challenging opponent for a party of 4th-6th level adventurers, making him an appropriate challenge rating of 8. His combination of combat skills, knowledge, and legendary actions, along with his traditional Greek armor and weapons, provides a formidable and engaging encounter.

Plot Hooks

• The Survivor’s Tale: Achaemenides regales the players with a vivid and harrowing account of his escape from the clutches of the Cyclops Polyphemus, describing the creature’s immense power and the treacherous environment of the island.
• The Wandering Outcast: Achaemenides, having been abandoned by his fellow sailors, seeks redemption and a new purpose in joining the players’ group. He is eager to prove his loyalty and usefulness, despite carrying the weight of his past actions.
• The Cyclops’ Curse: Achaemenides believes he is cursed by the Cyclops for escaping its clutches. Strange occurrences and misfortunes seem to follow him, and he seeks the players’ help in finding a way to break the curse and find peace.
• Lost in the Wilderness: Achaemenides has intimate knowledge of uncharted lands and perilous seas. He offers to guide the players through treacherous terrains or lead them to hidden locations, unveiling secrets and dangers along the way.
• The Forgotten Prize: Achaemenides possesses a precious artifact that he salvaged from the Cyclops’ lair—a relic of great power and significance. However, the knowledge of its existence has attracted the attention of powerful beings who seek to claim it for their own purposes, leading to a dangerous pursuit.
• The Cyclopean Grudge: Achaemenides harbors a deep-rooted grudge against the Cyclops and is determined to exact revenge. He seeks allies among the players to aid him in a daring plan to confront Polyphemus and free other captives still held on the island.
• The Shattered Faith: Achaemenides was once a devout follower of the gods, but the horrors he witnessed on the island shattered his beliefs. He questions the existence and benevolence of the deities, prompting philosophical discussions and exploration of faith among the players.
• The Eye of Polyphemus: Achaemenides possesses a peculiar artifact—a crystalline eye plucked from the slain Cyclops. This enchanted eye grants limited insight into future events or hidden truths, but its use comes at a price, as it constantly hungers for darkness and seeks to corrupt the user.
• The Seafarer’s Wisdom: Achaemenides shares his extensive knowledge of the seas and maritime lore with the players, offering advice on navigation, encounters with mythical creatures, and the locations of hidden treasures. His expertise proves invaluable during sea voyages and coastal expeditions.
• The Haunting Memories: Achaemenides is plagued by vivid nightmares and haunting memories of his time in captivity. These visions occasionally blur the line between reality and illusion, presenting challenges for the players as they grapple with Achaemenides’ fragile mental state.

Currently in the World

Achaemenides is a tall and wiry man with weathered features, reflecting the hardships he has endured. His skin is tanned from years spent under the scorching sun, and his eyes hold a mix of weariness and determination. He sports a thick, unkempt beard and long, tangled hair, giving him a rugged appearance.

Currently, Achaemenides finds himself on the rocky shores of Ithaca, the island ruled by the legendary hero Odysseus. He is clad in worn and tattered sailor’s attire, his clothes bearing the marks of his tumultuous journey. He stands on the beach, peering out into the vast sea, his gaze filled with longing and a hint of sorrow.

The surroundings are a mixture of rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and the occasional glimpse of lush vegetation. The air is salty and carries the tang of the sea, filling Achaemenides’ senses. The sound of seagulls overhead and the distant roar of the ocean create a constant backdrop to his contemplation.

Achaemenides’ mood is one of both relief and restlessness. Having survived the encounters with the Cyclops Polyphemus and the perils of the sea, he is grateful to have escaped with his life. However, his mind is haunted by the memories of his comrades who fell victim to the monstrous Cyclops. A sense of survivor’s guilt weighs heavily on him, driving him to seek redemption and find his purpose in this new chapter of his life.