King Cecrops I, Founder of Athens

“Meet Cecrops I, the Mythical Serpent-King who Shaped Athens’ Destiny!”

• Alias: Cecrops I, King Cecrops
• Gender: Male
• Race: Half-human, half-snake ( Azata, Lillend)
• Occupation: Mythical King, Founder of Athens
• Religion: Devout worshiper of the Hellenic Pantheon
• Allies: The gods of Olympus, Athenian citizens, neighboring city-states
• Enemies: Potential enemies and adversaries of Athens
• Abode/Base of Operations: Athens, the city he founded
• Nationality: Greek
• Languages: Ancient Greek, the language of the gods
• Alignment: Lawful Neutral
• Affiliation(s): Founder and first ruler of Athens
• Significant Others: His subjects and the people of Athens, the gods of Olympus

Presenting Cecrops I, the enigmatic figure of ancient Greek mythology, a legendary serpent-like king who played a pivotal role in the founding of Athens. As the first mythical ruler of this great city, Cecrops emerges from the mists of time as a half-human, half-snake being with profound wisdom and divine guidance. Born from the earth itself, his unique nature embodies the fusion of mortal and immortal realms, making him a revered figure among both humans and gods. As he rises to power, Cecrops sets out on a mission to establish a thriving civilization in the heart of Attica, driven by his desire to bring prosperity, order, and justice to his people.

With a regal demeanor and a commanding presence, Cecrops carries the weight of his divine ancestry as he navigates the complexities of ruling a burgeoning city-state. Known for his sage counsel and impartial judgments, he swiftly earns the trust and admiration of his subjects, making him a beacon of hope and stability in turbulent times. His goal is to build a haven of culture, knowledge, and artistry where citizens can flourish, and to instill in them a deep reverence for the gods and their place in the cosmos.

Driven by a profound sense of duty, Cecrops dedicates himself to divine worship and rituals, ensuring the favor of the gods remains upon Athens. His connection to the ancient deities grants him insight into the mysteries of the world, guiding him in making decisions that will shape the destiny of the city-state. His unyielding pursuit of wisdom and enlightenment fuels his desire to establish a city that upholds the ideals of harmony and unity, fostering a society that values intellect, virtue, and justice above all.

As a symbol of both ancient wisdom and mythical prowess, Cecrops strives to protect Athens from external threats, safeguarding its citizens from malevolent forces that might seek to challenge their burgeoning civilization. His legendary leadership and diplomatic prowess enable him to forge alliances with neighboring tribes and city-states, contributing to the prosperity and influence of Athens throughout the region.

However, amid the challenges of ruling and shaping the destiny of Athens, Cecrops faces personal dilemmas, grappling with his dual nature as a creature of both the earthly and the divine. Despite his immense wisdom and power, he grapples with the feeling of being an outsider among mortals and gods alike, yearning for a sense of belonging and understanding. Yet, he remains resolute in his pursuit of fulfilling the vision he holds for Athens and the legacy he wishes to leave behind as a benevolent and wise ruler, etching his name into the annals of history as a founding father of one of the most illustrious cities in the ancient world.

Cecrops I, Founding King of Athens

Medium humanoid (half-human, half-snake), lawful neutral

Armor Class 16 (natural armor) Hit Points 195 (23d8 + 92) Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
20 (+5)	16 (+3)	18 (+4)	18 (+4)	20 (+5)	18 (+4)

Saving Throws Intelligence +8, Wisdom +9, Charisma +8 Skills History +8, Insight +9, Persuasion +8 Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 15 Languages Greek, Celestial, Draconic

Challenge 17 (18,000 XP)

Amphibious. Cecrops can breathe both air and water.

Innate Spellcasting. Cecrops’ innate spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 17). He can innately cast the following spells, requiring no material components:

• At will: comprehend languages, detect magic, speak with animals
• 3/day each: divination, tongues
• 1/day each: legend lore, commune

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

Actions

Multiattack. Cecrops makes three attacks: two with his constriction and one with his shortbow.

Constriction. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one Large or smaller creature. Hit: 22 (4d8 + 5) bludgeoning damage, and the target is grappled (escape DC 17). Until the grapple ends, the target is restrained, and Cecrops can’t constrict another target.

Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage plus 7 (2d6) poison damage.

Summon Snakes (1/Day). Cecrops can magically summon 2d6 giant constrictor snakes, 1d6 constrictor snakes, or 1d4 poisonous snakes. The summoned snakes appear in unoccupied spaces within 60 feet of him and act on his turn. They remain for 1 minute, until Cecrops dies, or until he dismisses them as a bonus action.

Tail Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 5) bludgeoning damage.

Lair Actions

On initiative count 20 (losing initiative ties), Cecrops can take a lair action to cause one of the following magical effects. He can’t use the same effect two rounds in a row:

1. Snakes emerge from the ground. Up to three giant constrictor snakes or six constrictor snakes appear in unoccupied spaces within 60 feet of Cecrops and act on his turn. They remain for 1 minute or until dismissed.
2. Enveloping Darkness. Darkness spreads within a 30-foot radius centered on a point Cecrops can see within 120 feet. The darkness lasts for 1 minute or until he dismisses it.
3. Blessing of Athena. Cecrops calls upon the goddess Athena for aid. He and all friendly creatures within 30 feet of him gain advantage on Wisdom saving throws for 1 minute.

Cecrops is the wise and ancient king of Athens, believed to be the city’s founding figure. As a half-human, half-snake being, he is respected for his wisdom and guidance, and he has retained his presence in mythology as a symbol of the city’s noble beginnings. With a desire to ensure Athens’ prosperity and uphold its traditions, he remains a revered figure in both historical accounts and legends.

Currently in the World

Physical Description: Cecrops I, the mythical King of Athens, is a striking figure with a regal bearing. He possesses the upper body of a dignified and wise man, while his lower body is that of a majestic serpent, symbolizing his unique heritage as a half-human, half-snake being. His piercing eyes hold both wisdom and authority, and his weathered face bears the marks of a leader who has seen many years of rule. He wears a simple yet elegant robe, adorned with symbols representing the gods he worships and the city he founded.

Current Activity and Surroundings: Currently, Cecrops I stands at the heart of Athens, the city he founded and nurtured. He is surrounded by the Athenian citizens, who have gathered to seek his guidance and wisdom in times of both prosperity and hardship. Despite his imposing appearance, the people regard him with reverence and admiration, seeking his counsel as a trusted and just ruler.

Mood: Cecrops’ mood is one of benevolence and calm authority. As he addresses the people, his presence exudes a sense of tranquility and wisdom. He is focused on the well-being of his beloved city, Athens, and the prosperity of its citizens. His purpose is to lead with fairness and ensure that Athens remains a shining beacon of culture and knowledge in the ancient world.