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Antaeus, Son of Gaia

“Unleash the Unstoppable Power of Antaeus – The Mythical Giant Who Defies Death!”

By William Blake - Unknown source, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=683487, Antaeus
By William Blake – Unknown source, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=683487
  • Alias: Antaeus, Son of Gaia
  • Gender: Male
  • Race: Giant
  • Occupation: Legendary Wrestler, Guardian of the Earth
  • Religion: Devoted to the Titans and the Earth Deities (Hellenic Pantheon)
  • Allies: Titans, Giants, Nature Spirits, Cyclopes
  • Enemies: Greek Heroes, Divine Beings, Olympian Gods
  • Abode/Base of Operations: The Libyan Desert, where he draws power from the earth
  • Nationality: Greek Mythological being
  • Languages: Ancient Greek, Giant, Primordial
  • Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
  • Affiliation(s): Titanomachy, Defenders of the Earth
  • Significant Others: None mentioned in mythological accounts

In the rugged landscapes of Greece, Antaeus, a colossal and indomitable figure, emerges as a force to be reckoned with. Towering over mortal men, his massive frame and impenetrable strength are renowned throughout the realms. Born as the son of Gaia, the Earth itself, Antaeus is deeply connected to the primal forces of nature, drawing power from the very ground beneath his feet.

Driven by an unyielding desire to prove his dominance and protect the sanctity of his birthright, Antaeus challenges all who dare to face him. In battle, his earth-shaking blows leave adversaries trembling, while his unbreakable grip renders even the mightiest warriors powerless. His resilience is unmatched, for whenever he is brought low, his connection to the earth revives him with an unfathomable vitality.

Despite his intimidating presence, Antaeus possesses a profound sense of honor and respect. He yearns to prove himself in the face of formidable opponents, seeking recognition and admiration for his unrivaled might. His unquenchable thirst for glory pushes him to seek out the greatest challenges, whether it be battling legendary heroes, clashing with divine beings, or engaging in epic contests of strength.

Beyond his insatiable appetite for victory, Antaeus holds a deep reverence for the natural world. He cherishes the untamed wilderness and the boundless power of the earth, viewing himself as its guardian and champion. Through his colossal deeds, he aims to defend the primal forces that sustain all life and ensure the balance between the mortal realms and the divine.

Yet, lurking beneath his indomitable exterior lies a yearning for acceptance and purpose. Antaeus longs to find his rightful place in the annals of myth, to etch his name alongside the greatest legends. He seeks to forge an enduring legacy, one that will inspire awe and reverence for generations to come.

With unwavering determination, Antaeus roams the vast lands, challenging all who dare to test their mettle against him. His earth-shaking presence and unyielding spirit make him a force to be reckoned with, as he strives to carve out his destiny among the pantheon of legendary figures, forever leaving his mark upon the tapestry of myth.


Antaeus, the Mighty Wrestler

Antaeus, the Mighty Wrestler
Midjourney

Huge Giant, Chaotic Neutral

Armor Class 21 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 370 (20d12 + 220)

Speed 40 ft.

STRDEXCONINTWISCHA
30 (+10)12 (+1)28 (+9)8 (-1)14 (+2)10 (+0)

Saving Throws Str +17, Con +16

Skills Athletics +17, Insight +6

Damage Resistances Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing damage from nonmagical attacks

Condition Immunities Charmed, Frightened

Senses Passive Perception 12

Languages Giant, Common

Challenge 21 (33,000 XP)

Titanic Resilience (Grounded). While Antaeus is in contact with the ground, he has resistance to all damage and regains 20 hit points at the start of each of his turns. If Antaeus starts his turn without touching the ground, this feature ceases to function until he regains contact with the earth.

Earth’s Might. As long as Antaeus is in contact with the ground, he has advantage on all Strength-based ability checks, saving throws, and attack rolls.

Legendary Resistance (3/Day). If Antaeus fails a saving throw, he can choose to succeed instead.

Actions

Multiattack. Antaeus makes three attacks: two with his Fist and one with his Slam.

Fist. Melee Weapon Attack: +17 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 35 (4d10 + 10) bludgeoning damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 23 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +17 to hit, reach 20 ft., one target. Hit: 42 (4d12 + 10) bludgeoning damage. The target must succeed on a DC 23 Strength saving throw or be pushed back 10 feet and knocked prone.

Titanic Roar (Recharge 5-6). Antaeus unleashes a powerful roar in a 60-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 23 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute. A frightened creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on a success.

Reactions

Earth’s Embrace. When a melee attack misses Antaeus, he can use his reaction to attempt to grapple the attacker. The attacker must make a DC 23 Strength saving throw or be grappled by Antaeus.

Lair Actions

On initiative count 20 (losing initiative ties), Antaeus can take a lair action to cause one of the following effects:

Shifting Ground. He causes the ground to tremble within a 30-foot radius. Each creature in that area must succeed on a DC 23 Dexterity saving throw or be knocked prone.

Rising Earth. Antaeus raises the earth, creating difficult terrain in a 20-foot radius centered on a point within 60 feet of him. The terrain lasts until initiative count 20 on the next round.

Aura of Earth’s Strength. He exudes an aura of strength and resilience. Allies within 30 feet of him gain advantage on all Strength-based ability checks and saving throws until the beginning of his next turn.

Legendary Actions

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

Earthquake Stomp. He slams the ground, causing a shockwave in a 20-foot radius. Each creature in that area must succeed on a DC 23 Dexterity saving throw or take 21 (6d6) bludgeoning damage and be knocked prone.

Unbreakable Grapple. He makes one grapple attempt against a creature within his reach. The target must succeed on a DC 23 Strength saving throw or be restrained by Antaeus.

Titanic Roar. Antaeus uses his Titanic Roar ability.

With these amendments, Antaeus embodies his mythological essence as a powerful wrestler connected to the earth, presenting a formidable challenge to adventurers who dare to face him.

D&D 5E Epic Monsters: Antaeus

Antaeus dnd 5e BANNER.jpg

D&D 5E – Epic Monsters: Antaeus | EN World | Dungeons & Dragons | Tabletop Roleplaying Games

The son of Gaia and Poseidon, Antaeus was a (small) giant who really liked to wrestle. He wrestled anyone willing to, challenging even Heracles/Hercules. While he remained in contact with the ground however, Antaeus was utterly invincible—so Hercules picked him up and crushed him to death in a bear hug. Before that however the wrestler had bested and killed countless opponents, so many that he built a temple to Poseidon out of their skulls. Nothing says I love you like skulls amirite?

Antaeus
Medium giant, neutral
Armor Class 14 (natural armor)
Hit Points 57 (6d8+30)
Speed 30 ft.

STRDEXCONINTWISCHA
20 (+5)​14 (+2)​20 (+5)​10 (+0)​10 (+0)​12 (+1)​

Saving Throws Dex +4
Skills Athletics +7, Perception +2
Senses passive Perception 12
Languages Common
Challenge 4 (1,100 XP)

Gaea’s Strength. As long as Antaeus is in contact with the earth, his Strength is increased by 4 (included in his statistics), and he has advantage on Strength checks and saving throws. This feature functions if he stands on earth, stone, sand, or mud; even a wooden or stone floor of a building or street is sufficient as long as that is in contact with the actual ground.

Gaea’s Vitality. If he is knocked unconscious or killed while in contact with the earth, Antaeus regains all of his hit points, ends any conditions other than prone that he is being affected by, and can take actions on his next turn. He can only be permanently killed if it is done while he is not in contact with the earth. To physically lift him up a creature must be grappling Antaeus and succeed on an opposed Strength (Athletics) check to pin, then has disadvantage on a second opposed Strength (Athletics) check to lift him into the air.

Power Attack. When Anteus makes his first melee weapon attack in a turn, he can choose to take a -5 penalty to his melee weapon attack rolls in exchange for a +10 bonus to melee weapon damage. In addition, Anteus can use a bonus action to make one melee weapon attack after he uses a melee weapon to reduce a creature to 0 hit points or scores a critical hit with it. Anteus can only use this feature on his turn.

ACTION
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d4+5) bludgeoning damage.

Antaeus

Originally Posted by BOZ of the En World forums.

On this Thread

Antaeus
Large Giant (Earth)
Hit Dice16d8+48 (120 hp)
Initiative+1 (Dexterity)
Speed40 ft.
AC16 (-1 size, +1 Dexterity, +6 natural)
AttacksSlam +16 melee
DamageSlam 2d8+7 (at normal size)
Face/Reach5 ft. by 5 ft./10 ft. (at normal size)
Special QualitiesGrowth, Regeneration, Contact With Earth (vulnerability)
SavesFort +11 , Ref +5 , Will +4
AbilitiesStrength 25, Dexterity 13, Constitution 17, Intelligence 8, Wisdom 11, Charisma 12
SkillsClimb +13, Jump +13, Spot +7
FeatsCleave, Combat Reflexes, Great Cleave, Power Attack, Sunder
Climate/TerrainAny land
OrganizationSolitary
Challenge Rating17
TreasureTriple standard
AlignmentAlways chaotic evil
AdvancementBy character class

Combat

As Antaeus enters combat, he is often underestimated as being only a mere giant. His appearance begins to change rapidly however, as he uses his Growth power immediately upon beginning combat, and begins to pummel his opponents senseless with his increasing strength.

Growth (Su) Every round that he is in combat after the first one, Antaeus continues to grow and become stronger. After each combat round, he grows two feet taller (and appropriately heavier), increases the damage on his slam attack by 1d8, and gains 2 points of Strength and Constitution, with appropriate damage and hit point adjustments. He continues to grow until he is strong like a titan: 23′ tall, with Strength 37 and Constitution 29, with a slam attack of 8d8+15 damage. Antaeus will remain at this size as long as he fights, and will gradually shrink back down to normal size when the battle is over.

Regeneration (Su) Antaeus heals all damage practically instantaneously at the beginning of each round. When his hit points increase at the beginning of a round, he will therefore have his new maximum hit points.

Contact With Earth (Su) Antaeus must maintain contact with the earth in order for his powers to function. If he is somehow lifted off the ground, his regeneration will no longer work (although he does not lose hit points that he had gained because of it), and he will return back to normal size at the same rate at which he grew.

Antaeus first appeared in Deities and Demigods (Gary Gygax, 1980).

Plot Hooks

  • The Colossus of the Arena: Antaeus, a towering figure with bulging muscles and an aura of invincibility, stands as the undefeated champion of wrestling in the grand arenas of the realm. His reputation as a formidable opponent and master of grappling has spread far and wide, attracting skilled fighters, gladiators, and aspiring wrestlers from every corner of the land. Legends of his incredible strength and unbreakable holds have become the stuff of myth and inspire awe in those who dare to challenge him. In the bustling arena, Antaeus flexes his massive arms, a confident smile playing on his lips, as he awaits the next contender to step into the ring.
  • The Earth’s Favored Son: Antaeus, born of Gaia, the primordial Earth, is a figure deeply connected to the land. His very existence is intertwined with the natural world, and he possesses an innate understanding and affinity for its elements. As the Earth’s favored son, he feels a profound responsibility to protect the sanctity of nature and preserve its delicate balance. Seeking adventurers who share his reverence for the earth, he embarks on quests to confront those who would exploit its resources or defile its sacred sites. With a determined gaze, Antaeus traverses lush forests, rugged mountains, and pristine meadows, his footsteps leaving a trace of vitality and renewal in his wake.
  • The Unbreakable Sentinel: Antaeus assumes the role of a stalwart guardian, tasked with safeguarding ancient burial grounds, hidden relics, and forgotten treasures buried deep within the earth. Stationed at the entrance of a sacred tomb, his imposing figure casts an intimidating shadow. With each challenger who approaches, he issues a solemn warning, daring them to test their mettle against his unyielding strength. Those who fail to show respect or threaten the sanctity of the resting place face the full fury of his wrath. Antaeus’s unwavering commitment to his duty drives him to defend the sacred sites with unwavering determination and an unbreakable resolve.
  • The Earth’s Wrath Unleashed: When Antaeus witnesses the wanton destruction of nature, his fury knows no bounds. Whether it be the clear-cutting of ancient forests or the pollution of pristine waters, he channels his rage into action. Seeking allies among adventurers who share his burning desire to protect the earth, he leads a relentless crusade against those responsible for the devastation. With each stride, the ground quakes beneath his feet, echoing the tremors of his wrath. In the face of greed and corruption, Antaeus stands as a towering force of nature, ready to bring down empires and topple those who threaten the delicate balance of the natural world.
  • The Echo of Hercules: Antaeus, the son of Poseidon and Gaia, carries the spirit and legacy of his renowned ancestor, Hercules. Inspired by the legendary hero’s feats of strength and courage, Antaeus embarks on a personal quest to emulate his forebear’s heroic deeds. Guided by ancient tales and prophecies, he seeks out artifacts and challenges that echo the trials Hercules faced. With every challenge overcome, Antaeus grows closer to becoming a living legend in his own right. As he crosses vast landscapes and treacherous terrains, his unwavering determination shines through, driving him to achieve greatness and carve his name into the annals of history.
  • The Living Mountain: Antaeus is not merely a man but a living embodiment of the earth’s strength and resilience. Towering over others, he stands as a testament to the raw power of nature. Adventurers who seek to learn from his wisdom and master the earth’s primal forces are drawn to him. Under his watchful guidance, they undergo rigorous physical trials, testing their limits and unlocking their hidden potential. Through their training, Antaeus imparts ancient druidic secrets and reveals the true potential to shape the very landscape they traverse. In serene groves and mystical caverns, Antaeus imparts his teachings, surrounded by the harmony of nature and the whispers of forgotten wisdom.
  • The Great Earthshaker: Antaeus, with his innate connection to the earth, possesses the ability to unleash seismic power. When confronted with treacherous terrains or threats that require the earth’s wrath, he calls upon adventurers who can withstand the mighty tremors and navigate the ever-shifting landscape. Together, they embark on quests to unearth hidden passages, locate long-lost artifacts, and delve into the depths of ancient ruins. Antaeus’s thunderous footsteps resonate through the land, shaking the foundations of structures and toppling obstacles in their path. With each earth-shattering move, he uncovers the secrets buried beneath the surface, leading the way to unimaginable treasures.
  • The Boundless Grapple: Antaeus’s expertise lies in the art of wrestling, and he offers a unique opportunity for aspiring wrestlers and martial artists to train under his watchful eye. Through rigorous physical challenges, one-on-one grappling sessions, and intense sparring, he hones their skills and pushes them to unlock their hidden potential. Antaeus teaches them the secrets of the perfect hold, the art of leverage, and the ways to outmaneuver opponents in the ring. Under his tutelage, wrestlers become masters of their craft, blending strength, technique, and agility into an unstoppable force. The arena echoes with the sounds of bodies colliding and the cheers of spectators as Antaeus imparts his wisdom to those who seek to conquer the world of wrestling.
  • The Earth’s Embodiment: Antaeus, blessed by Gaia herself, possesses the unique ability to temporarily channel the power of the earth. In times of great need, he calls upon adventurers to join him in ceremonial rituals that strengthen the bond between mortals and the land. These rituals grant participants temporary elemental powers, transforming them into unstoppable forces of nature. With bodies surrounded by swirling earth, crackling lightning, or raging flames, they become avatars of the elements, wielding their newfound powers to protect the earth and restore balance to the realms. Antaeus leads these empowered champions into battle, their combined might representing the raw strength of the earth itself.
  • The Buried Secrets: Antaeus guards an ancient vault hidden deep beneath the earth’s surface, a repository of powerful artifacts and ancient knowledge. Within its labyrinthine corridors lie treasures long forgotten, guarded by traps, riddles, and formidable guardians. Antaeus seeks brave adventurers to assist him in unlocking the mysteries held within the vault’s chambers. Together, they delve into the perilous depths, their every step guided by Antaeus’s knowledge of ancient lore and his ability to sense hidden passages. As they face off against the vault’s guardians, Antaeus’s immense strength and strategic prowess prove invaluable in overcoming the challenges that lie in wait.

Currently in the World

Antaeus, a towering figure with a muscular and imposing physique, stands at an astounding height of over twenty feet. His skin, bronzed and rugged, seems to embody the very essence of the earth itself. His chiseled features and intense gaze emanate an aura of raw power and unwavering determination.

Currently, Antaeus finds himself amidst a vast expanse of untamed wilderness, surrounded by towering mountains and ancient forests. The air is thick with the scent of pine, and the ground beneath his feet pulses with the energy of the earth. He stands in the midst of a sacred grove, where ancient trees sway in harmony with the wind, their leaves whispering secrets known only to the natural world.

In this moment, Antaeus exudes a palpable sense of purpose and focused energy. His eyes scan the horizon, ever watchful for any threat to the balance of nature. His movements are deliberate and graceful, reflecting his deep connection with the earth. With each step, the ground trembles beneath him, echoing his presence and emphasizing his indomitable might.

His mood is one of unwavering determination and unwavering loyalty to his cause. As the guardian of the earth, he remains vigilant, ready to defend the natural world against any who would seek to exploit or desecrate it. Despite his immense strength, there is a serene calmness that emanates from him, a deep-rooted understanding of his role and purpose in preserving the harmony of the land.

Antaeus stands as a living testament to the raw power of nature, a stalwart defender of the earth’s sanctity. His physical presence alone commands respect, while his unwavering dedication to his mission evokes both awe and reverence. In the midst of this untamed wilderness, he stands as a towering figure, a guardian eternally bound to the earth’s primordial forces.

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