Buy me a coffeeIphicles
“Iphicles, the Overlooked Hero: Half-brother to Hercules, Calydonian boar hunter, and tragic figure in the shadow of a legendary sibling!”
- Alias – Iphicles
- Gender – Male
- Race – Human
- Occupation – Noble, Calydonian boar hunter
- Religion – Greek mythology
- Allies – Hercules, Telamon, Laonome
- Enemies – Hera, King Laomedon
- Abode/Base of operations – Varied, from Tiryns to Arcadia
- Nationality – Greek
- Languages – Ancient Greek
- Alignment – Neutral Good
- Affiliation(s) – Associated with Hercules and the Calydonian boar hunt
- Significant others – Automedusa (first wife), Pyrrha (second wife)
Iphicles weaves his story as the overlooked half-brother of the mighty Hercules. Son of Alcmene and Amphitryon, he walks a path shadowed by the extraordinary deeds of his famous sibling.
Background: He grew up in the formidable company of Hercules, his elder half-brother. From the early days, he faced a constant struggle to match the legendary feats of the demigod, often standing in the background as Hercules garnered accolades. As the son of Alcmene and Amphitryon, Iphicles embraced a life entwined with the divine, bearing the burden of comparison.
Character: Despite his innate strength and courage, he lived in the looming shadow of Hercules, facing challenges and fears that came with his extraordinary family. A night younger than Hercules, he once trembled at the sight of serpents strangled by his brother. Iphicles’ bravery and fortitude became evident when he joined Hercules in various adventures, facing mythical beasts and embarking on a punitive expedition against Troy.
Fears: He harbored a deep-seated fear of inadequacy, perpetually measured against Hercules’ unparalleled achievements. The legendary snakes, initially a source of terror, symbolized the constant struggle to find his identity in the wake of Hercules’ overwhelming presence.
Motivations: Driven by familial bonds and a sense of duty, he accompanied Hercules on quests and expeditions. Despite living in the shadows, he sought to prove his worth and contribute to the heroic endeavors surrounding his family. His loyalty to Hercules and shared bloodline shaped his motivations, leading him into battles and trials alongside the demigod.
Achievements: Iphicles’ journey included fatherhood, with Iolaus as his son, and participation in the Calydonian boar hunt. His life intertwined with the grand narrative of Greek mythology, contributing to the exploits of heroes and facing tragic outcomes.
In the end, Iphicles met his demise during a punitive expedition against the Hippocoon of Sparta. His death left Hercules inconsolable, revealing the intricate tapestry of familial bonds and the struggles faced by those overshadowed by legendary figures.
Legacy: Though Iphicles may not shine as brightly as Hercules, his role in the Greek mythos offers a nuanced perspective on heroism. His story serves as a reminder that even those in the shadows play crucial parts in the epic tales of gods and mortals.
Iphicles, Noble Scion of Greece
Medium humanoid (human), neutral good
Armor Class 18 (bronze cuirass, shield)
Hit Points 138 (16d8 + 64)
Speed 30 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 (+4) | 14 (+2) | 18 (+4) | 12 (+1) | 16 (+3) | 18 (+4) |
Saving Throws Str +8, Dex +6, Con +8
Skills Athletics +8, Insight +7, Perception +7
Senses passive Perception 17
Languages Greek
Challenge 8 (3,900 XP)
Actions
Multiattack. Iphicles makes two attacks: one with his xiphos and one with his spear.
Xiphos. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (1d8 + 4) slashing damage.
Spear. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage.
Shield Bash. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 9 (1d4 + 4) bludgeoning damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 16 Strength saving throw or be pushed 10 feet away and knocked prone.
Reactions
Parry. Iphicles adds 3 to his AC against one melee attack that would hit him. To do so, Iphicles must see the attacker and be wielding a melee weapon.
Equipment
- Bronze cuirass
- Corinthian helmet
- Chlamys adorned with familial symbols
- Shield
- Xiphos (short sword)
- Spear
- Traveler’s clothes
- Explorer’s pack
- Coin purse with 15 gp
Description
Iphicles, a noble scion of Ancient Greece, stands tall and resolute in his bronze cuirass adorned with familial symbols. A Corinthian helmet with a majestic plume conceals his hazelnut eyes, and a chlamys, proudly displaying regal hues of deep purple and gold, drapes over his shoulders. Armed with a shield and wielding a xiphos and spear, Iphicles embodies the valor of a Grecian hero.
Tactics
Iphicles, a skilled combatant, strategically employs his xiphos and spear in battle. His shield bash is a potent maneuver, allowing him to control the flow of combat by knocking foes prone. Iphicles parries attacks with finesse, showcasing his mastery in defensive maneuvers. On the battlefield, he moves with determination, honoring his familial lineage.
Roleplaying Hooks
- Familial Legacy: Iphicles seeks to uphold the honor and legacy of his noble lineage. Characters seeking noble allies or mentors may find a steadfast companion in him.
- Tragic Fate: The tragic fate of Iphicles, especially his demise in the battle against Hippocoon, may serve as a plot point or quest for characters exploring the repercussions of Greek mythology.
- Calydonian Boar Hunt: Iphicles’ involvement in the Calydonian boar hunt can be the backdrop for an adventure or quest centered around legendary beasts and heroic endeavors.
- Heroic Expedition: Characters may be invited to join Iphicles on a punitive expedition against mythical foes, reflecting his valor and dedication to justice.
- Familial Burdens: Iphicles grapples with familial expectations and the weight of his heritage. Characters can become involved in resolving familial conflicts or supporting him in overcoming his challenges.
Currently in the World
In the vibrant realm of Greece, Iphicles, a noble scion of renown, stands with an air of noble bearing. Cloaked in a flowing chlamys, dyed in regal hues of deep purple and gold, he carries the insignia of his lineage with pride. The rich fabric drapes elegantly over his well-built frame, adorned with symbols depicting his familial connections and heroic exploits.
Currently, Iphicles is engaged in the martial pursuits of a warrior aristocrat. His bronze cuirass gleams in the sunlight, a testament to his prowess in battle. A Corinthian helmet, adorned with a majestic plume, shields his head, and a finely crafted xiphos is sheathed at his side. In his hands, he tightly grips a bronze-tipped spear, the weapon of choice for a valiant hunter and defender.
Surrounded by the lush landscapes of Ancient Greece, the ambiance is a juxtaposition of tranquility and tension. Tall olive trees sway gently, casting dappled shadows on the ground. The distant echoes of waves crashing against the shore add a calming undertone to the scene. However, an unspoken intensity lingers, as Iphicles readies himself for an impending quest or battle.
Iphicles’ countenance mirrors the dichotomy of his surroundings—composed yet vigilant. His eyes, a deep shade of hazel, reflect the experiences of a man acquainted with both honor and tragedy. A furrowed brow reveals the weight of familial expectations and the burdens of siblinghood with the legendary Hercules. Despite the challenges, determination radiates from Iphicles, a warrior born to uphold his lineage and embrace the call of destiny.