Summary
Highlights
Hercules is introduced as the son of Zeus and a mortal woman, Alchini. Hera, Zeus's queen, seeks to destroy him out of jealousy. The gods later command Hercules to perform 12 dangerous labors to earn peace with Hera.
One of Hercules's greatest labors was defeating the Nemean lion, a beast with impenetrable hide, using only his bare hands. This story contributes to his growing legend.
Hercules and his band of warriors work as mercenaries, selling their services to those in need. They are hired to defend Macedonia from pirates, with Hercules's reputation preceding him.
Aria, a princess, seeks Hercules's help to defend her land from the warlord Reesus. She offers a substantial reward in gold for his services, leading Hercules to accept the mission.
Hercules and his companions begin training an army of farmers to fight against Reesus. He teaches them essential combat techniques such as forming a shield wall to improve their chances of survival.
Hercules confronts Reesus, learning that Cotis, the man he and his men are protecting, is responsible for burning the villages. He discovers that Cotis poisoned the former king, took his place, and will not pay them.
Hercules is revealed to have been drugged and tricked into murdering his own family, his wife and children, by King Uricius and Cotis, who used wolves to do so. They sought to ruin his name because his popularity threatened their power.
Hercules remembers and confronts the truth of his past, embracing his role as a hero. The people rally behind him, calling out his name to fight for good. The prophecy has been revealed, his final labor is complete.
In the end Hercules defeats King Uricius. He has become known as more than a mercenary, and it doesn't matter if he is the son of Zues, as long as he carries himself as a hero.