Aethalides, the Mnemonic Oracle

“Unveiling the Secrets of Immortal Memory: Meet Aethalides, the Herald with an Unforgettable Gift!”

• Alias: Aethalides the Unforgettable, Son of Hermes
• Gender: Male
• Race: Demigod (Half-human, half-divine)
• Occupation: Herald, Messenger, Navigator, Trickster
• Religion: Devotee of Hermes, Greek Pantheon
• Allies: Argonauts, Heroes, Gods and Goddesses
• Enemies: Foes of the gods, Enemies of the Argonauts
• Abode/Base of Operations: The mortal realm, Mount Olympus, Underworld
• Nationality: Greek
• Languages: Ancient Greek, Divine Language
• Alignment: Chaotic Good
• Affiliation(s): The Argonauts, Hermes, Olympian Gods
• Significant Others: None specifically mentioned in mythology

In the realm of Greek mythology, there exists a figure known as Aethalides, a character shrouded in mystery and bestowed with extraordinary gifts. Aethalides, a male individual, is renowned as the herald of the Argonauts, the brave and adventurous band of heroes who embarked on a perilous quest for the Golden Fleece. But Aethalides himself possesses a unique quality that sets him apart from others – the unfathomable ability to remember everything, even in the realm of Hades.

Raised in the shadow of this remarkable gift, Aethalides has devoted his life to the pursuit of knowledge and the transmission of information. As the herald of the Argonauts, his role is to convey messages, announce their arrival, and communicate with both mortals and divine beings. Aethalides has embraced this responsibility with unwavering dedication, knowing that his exceptional memory and eloquence make him an invaluable asset to the heroes he accompanies.

But there is more to Aethalides than meets the eye. Beyond his role as a messenger, he has developed a profound curiosity about the mysteries of life and death. His unique ability to remember even in the afterlife has granted him glimpses into realms unknown to ordinary mortals. It is this insatiable thirst for understanding that drives him to explore the boundaries of existence, to seek knowledge beyond the veil of mortality.

Aethalides harbors a deep desire to uncover the secrets of his own soul and the nature of reincarnation. He has learned of his soul’s migration through various bodies, a journey spanning time and space. This knowledge has ignited a fervent quest within him, as he seeks to grasp the intricacies of the soul’s journey and the interconnectedness of past and present lives.

Driven by an insatiable curiosity and armed with a memory that transcends death, Aethalides embarks on a personal odyssey of self-discovery. He seeks to understand the meaning of his remarkable gifts, to delve into the mysteries of the soul, and to shed light on the enigmatic realms of memory and transmigration. Through his adventures as the herald of the Argonauts and his own introspective explorations, Aethalides strives to unlock the profound truths hidden within the tapestry of existence.

Aethalides, the Mnemonic Oracle

Medium humanoid (human), neutral good

Armor Class 15 (natural armor)

Hit Points 110 (20d8 + 20)

Speed 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
10 (+0)	16 (+3)	12 (+1)	18 (+4)	16 (+3)	20 (+5)

Saving Throws Int +8, Wis +7, Cha +9

Skills Arcana +8, History +8, Insight +7, Perception +7

Damage Resistances psychic

Senses passive Perception 17

Languages Common, Celestial, Draconic, Primordial, Sylvan, +3 additional languages

Challenge 10 (5,900 XP)

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Special Traits

• Mnemonic Echoes. He has advantage on Intelligence (History) checks to recall information about historical events, ancient lore, and forgotten knowledge.
• Shapeshifting Trickster. He can use an action to polymorph into any Small or Medium humanoid or beast, or revert to its true form. Its statistics, other than its size, remain the same in each form. It can stay in a specific form indefinitely or until it uses this ability again.
• Astral Projection. He can use an action to enter the Astral Plane along with everything it is wearing and carrying. It can remain there until it uses an action to return to the plane it originated from.
• Arcane Sight. He has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects. It can also see through magical darkness and has true sight up to 120 feet.

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Actions

• Oracle’s Staff. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (1d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage. On a hit, the target must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or become poisoned for 1 minute.
• Mystic Bolt. Ranged Spell Attack: +8 to hit, range 120 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (4d6) force damage.
• Mind Thrust. He targets one creature it can see within 60 feet. The target must succeed on a DC 16 Intelligence saving throw or take 21 (6d6) psychic damage.

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Legendary Actions

Aethalides 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. Aethalides regains spent legendary actions at the start of its turn.

• Mnemonic Insight. He gains advantage on its next Intelligence or Wisdom-based ability check or saving throw.
• Phantom Step. He teleports up to 30 feet to an unoccupied space it can see.
• Echoing Words (Costs 2 Actions). He speaks a word of power, forcing each creature of its choice within 30 feet of it to make a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw or become stunned until the end of their next turn.

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Equipment

• Robes of the Oracle. These mystical robes grant him advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks and allow him to cast the Detect Thoughts spell once per day without expending a spell slot.
• Scrolls of Ancient Lore. Aethalides carries a collection of scrolls containing rare and powerful spells from ancient civilizations. Each scroll can be used to cast a spell from the scroll’s list once, after which the scroll crumbles to dust.
• Amulet of Mnemonic Recall. This enchanted amulet allows Aethalides to perfectly recall any piece of information or memory at will. It grants him advantage on Intelligence-based ability checks and saving throws.

Plot Hooks

• The Cunning Messenger: Aethalides, a renowned figure in the realm, is widely recognized as the most cunning and resourceful messenger. His reputation precedes him, as he has successfully delivered crucial messages across dangerous territories, navigating treacherous terrain, and outsmarting any obstacles that come his way. Adventurers who seek his assistance are met with tales of his legendary feats, making them eager to join him on daring missions where time is of the essence. Whether it’s delivering a vital message to a distant kingdom besieged by war or retrieving a valuable artifact hidden deep within a hostile territory, Aethalides is the go-to person for urgent missions that demand both speed and strategic thinking.
• The Stolen Secrets: Aethalides holds a secret cache of stolen information and classified documents, obtained through his extensive network of spies and informants. The secrets contained within these encrypted codes and hidden scrolls are rumored to have the power to topple kingdoms or unlock ancient mysteries. Aethalides seeks a group of trustworthy adventurers with diverse skills to help him decipher these enigmatic secrets, unravel the truth behind long-held conspiracies, and navigate the dangerous web of intrigue that surrounds the stolen knowledge. In doing so, the adventurers will gain access to unparalleled insights and potentially alter the course of history itself.
• The Labyrinth Explorer: Whispers of an ancient labyrinth hidden beneath a bustling city have captured the attention of adventurers far and wide. Legends speak of untold treasures, powerful artifacts, and arcane knowledge hidden within its winding corridors and deadly traps. Aethalides, a seasoned labyrinth explorer, seeks a group of adventurers skilled in traps, puzzles, and combat to accompany him on a perilous journey into the depths. With his vast knowledge of ancient lore and uncanny ability to navigate labyrinthine mazes, Aethalides offers the promise of unimaginable wealth and the chance to uncover the secrets that lie buried beneath layers of forgotten history.
• The Vengeful Fugitive: Aethalides finds himself a fugitive, hunted by a powerful noble family he once served. Fleeing their grasp, he seeks shelter and protection from a group of adventurers who are willing to challenge the family’s influence and help him gather evidence of their dark deeds. Aethalides possesses valuable information that could expose the family’s corrupt practices and bring about their downfall. With their aid, he aims to unearth hidden secrets, infiltrate the family’s opulent estates, and reveal the truth behind their iron grip on power. In return for their assistance, Aethalides promises to share his extensive knowledge, providing the adventurers with valuable leverage against their mutual enemies.
• The Master Disguiser: Aethalides possesses a rare and extraordinary talent for assuming the appearance of any individual, from high-ranking officials to common peasants. His mastery of disguise has made him an indispensable asset in covert operations and delicate infiltrations. Aethalides seeks adventurers who are skilled in both combat and subterfuge to assist him in a daring mission. Together, they will infiltrate a heavily guarded masquerade ball hosted by a notorious crime lord. Aethalides has suspicions of a hidden agenda that, once uncovered, could have far-reaching consequences for the city’s underworld. Success depends on the adventurers’ ability to maintain their covers, unravel the intricate web of deceit, and navigate the dangerous dance of shadows that awaits them.
• The Enigmatic Riddler: Aethalides is known for his love of riddles and puzzles, viewing them as both intellectual challenges and gateways to hidden knowledge. He challenges adventurers to solve a series of mind-bending riddles scattered throughout the land. Those who prove their wits and succeed in unraveling his enigmatic clues will be rewarded with ancient artifacts, cryptic knowledge, or even the chance to access long-forgotten realms. However, failure comes with consequences, as Aethalides is not one to let anyone escape without a lesson learned. Those who fail to solve his riddles may find themselves caught in cunningly devised traps or cursed with riddles of their own, serving as a reminder that the pursuit of knowledge and the realm of puzzles are not to be taken lightly.

Currently in the World

Aethalides stands tall with an athletic build, his features reflecting a perfect blend of mortal and divine heritage. His golden hair falls in loose waves, framing a face adorned with mischievous, bright blue eyes that seem to hold a spark of eternal knowledge. His attire, a mix of traveler’s garments and the regalia of a herald, exudes an air of confidence and readiness for adventure. He carries a staff adorned with intertwining serpents, a symbol of his divine lineage.

Currently, Aethalides finds himself in the bustling streets of a coastal city, surrounded by the vibrant energy of merchants, sailors, and curious onlookers. His eyes dart around, taking in the sights and sounds, ever observant and curious. There is a playful smile playing on his lips, hinting at the mischievous spirit within. Aethalides seems ready for his next journey, eager to unravel secrets, share tales, and embrace the unknown.

Mood: Curious, Playful, Adventurous