Dead But Not Gone | Free D&D Trap

Some treasure is better left untouched. Dead but Not Gone is a dangerous low-level magical trap that tempts adventurers with valuables scattered among a field of corpses, only to punish anyone greedy enough to start looting. The moment a possession is removed, the dead rise as skeletons or zombies, turning what looked like easy treasure into a sudden undead ambush.

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Dead but Not Gone

Magical trap (Complex trap, level 1-4, dangerous)

Description. The area is littered with dead bodies adorned in fine clothing, jewelry, and armor.

Trigger. Removing any possessions from the dead bodies triggers the trap.

Effect. All the dead bodies within the area begin to reanimate, becoming skeletons or zombies depending on their level of decay. The game master should determine how many undead animate to provide the desired challenge.

Countermeasures. A successful DC 12 Wisdom (Perception) check reveals that the area is well-traveled, yet these valuable items remain untouched. To the seasoned adventurer, it appears too easy. A successful DC 12 Wisdom (Insight) check confirms any suspicion that the belongings of the dead should not be touched or taken. A spell such as detect magic or a similar effect reveals the presence of strong necromantic magic infused in the corpses.

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