Iolaus, The Loyal Charioteer

“Iolaus, Heroic Companion of Heracles, Unveiling Mythic Adventures and the Secrets of Sardinian Oracles!”

• Alias: N/A
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Charioteer, Hero
• Religion: Greek Mythology
• Allies: Heracles, the Argonauts
• Enemies: Those who oppose Heracles and the forces of chaos
• Abode/Base of Operations: Thebes
• Nationality: Theban
• Languages: Ancient Greek
• Alignment: Lawful Good
• Affiliation(s): Heraclidae, Argonauts
• Significant Others: Megara (Wife), Leipephilene (Daughter)

In the heart of ancient Thebes, Iolaus emerges as a divine hero, celebrated for his unwavering loyalty to Heracles. As the son of Iphicles and Automedusa, he stands tall among mortals, his destiny intricately woven with the legendary feats of the mighty Heracles. Renowned as Heracles’ charioteer and comrade, he embraces the mantle of heroism with courage and devotion.

Amidst the mythic tapestry of his adventures, Iolaus plays a pivotal role in aiding Heracles, be it in the daunting battle against the Hydra or the conquest of distant lands. His bravery knows no bounds, as he cauterizes the Hydra’s necks, standing steadfast beside Heracles in the face of overwhelming challenges. Beyond the battles, he finds love in Megara, whom Heracles gifts to him, and together they become parents to Leipephilene, anchoring Iolaus to the threads of familial joy and responsibility.

The legends unfold further as Iolaus, at Heracles’ behest, embarks on a journey to Sardinia, shaping the destiny of the Iolei people. The narrative whispers of Sardinian oracles and rituals, tying him to the mystical rites of liberation from nightmares. In this ancient realm, he becomes more than a hero; he becomes a custodian of legends, a defender against ills, and a conduit to the divine.

As he treads the path of heroism, Iolaus remains devoted to the memory of Heracles, with Aristotle noting the enduring affection between the two. The legacy of Iolaus transcends mortal life, intertwining with Sardinian rites and the hallowed grounds of heroes. In his quest for purpose and valor, Iolaus embodies the timeless spirit of mythic heroism, a beacon in the annals of ancient Greek lore.

Iolaus, Charioteer of Heracles

Medium humanoid (human), neutral good

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Armor Class 15 (leather armor)
Hit Points 84 (8d8 + 48)
Speed 30 ft.

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

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Saving Throws Dex +7, Con +6
Skills Acrobatics +7, Athletics +5, Insight +4
Senses passive Perception 12
Languages Common, Ancient Greek

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Challenge 6 (2,300 XP)

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Heroic Inspiration. He can inspire others through stirring words or daring deeds. As a bonus action, he can choose one creature other than himself within 60 feet of him who can hear him. That creature gains advantage on the next ability check, attack roll, or saving throw it makes in the next minute.

Evasion. If he is subjected to an effect that allows him to make a Dexterity saving throw to take only half damage, he instead takes no damage on a success and half damage on a failure.

Uncanny Dodge. When an attacker that Iolaus can see hits him with an attack, he can use his reaction to halve the attack’s damage against him.

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Actions

Multiattack. He makes two attacks with his shortsword or two attacks with his shortbow.

• Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) slashing damage.
• Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage.
• Iolaus’ Valor. Iolaus can use his Heroic Inspiration as a reaction to add to his AC, making him harder to hit.

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Reactions

Heroic Sacrifice. When a creature Iolaus can see targets him with an attack, he can use his reaction to interpose himself, taking the damage intended for the target.

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Legendary Actions

Iolaus 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. Iolaus regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

1. Parry. He adds 2 to his AC against one melee attack that would hit him. To do so, he must see the attacker and be wielding a melee weapon.
2. Inspiring Strike (Costs 2 Actions). He makes a shortsword attack. If the attack hits, hecan use his Heroic Inspiration on a chosen ally as a bonus action.
3. Uncanny Maneuver (Costs 2 Actions). He uses Uncanny Dodge without expending his reaction.

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Equipment: Leather armor, shortsword, shortbow, quiver with 20 arrows, charioteer’s circlet.

Currently in the World

Iolaus, a stalwart figure with a wiry build, dons a simple yet well-kept chiton, the folds of the fabric elegantly draped over his shoulders. The garment, in hues of earthy tones, complements the bronze cuirass that gleams across his chest. A thin circlet of woven laurel leaves rests atop his tousled brown locks, indicating his heroic status.

Amidst the rustic surroundings of Thebes, he stands in the training grounds, his posture exuding a sense of readiness. The sun casts a warm glow on the olive groves nearby, and the distant murmur of the city forms a backdrop to the rhythmic clatter of weapons in the training yard.

Iolaus’ countenance reflects a mixture of determination and camaraderie, his eyes alert and focused. In the midst of a friendly sparring session, he shares laughs and jests with fellow warriors, embodying the spirit of a loyal companion and a valiant hero in the service of Heracles.