Phocus is the son of Aeacus by the Nereid Psamathe. He accepts his position as the illegitemate son of Aeacus and does not seek to usurp Telamon's position as prince and heir apparent to the throne of Aegina. However, he does expect a position at Aeacus' court, one which Aeacus willingly grants. Though realistic about his heritage he is proud and ambitious, unwilling to be brow-beaten by anyone at court, perhaps overly suspicious of the intentions of those about him. He meets with a tragic accident wilst out hunting, with repercussions for the whole royal family.