Type

Undead (Animated Corpse)

Origin

Zombies arise when properly buried corpses — those given the passage rite — are later animated by necromancers or corrupted magic. With the soul safely across the Veil, only empty flesh remains, leaving a husk that can be commanded but never truly think.

Appearance

• Rotting flesh in various states of decay.
• Burial clothes often still intact: shrouds, coffins scraps, or grave goods.
• Empty eyes or glazed pupils.
• Awkward, shuffling movements.

Abilities & Behaviour

• Mindless: Cannot act without orders; follow simple commands only.
• Relentless: Do not tire or fear, pursuing until destroyed.
• Slow: Their movements are clumsy, but overwhelming in number.

Weaknesses

• Easily destroyed by fire, holy light, or physical force.
• Cannot cross consecrated ground.
• Fall apart quickly if their necromantic tether is broken.

Cultural Notes

Zombies are considered the “least” of the undead, yet they terrify peasants nonetheless. Families comfort themselves knowing that a proper passage rite ensures their dead can never rise as ghouls — only as empty shells if defiled by necromancers.

Related Creatures

• Ghouls — unburied dead, far more dangerous.
• Skeletons — bones animated in similar fashion.