Skeletons

Skeletons, the remains of people long dead, reanimated through dark magic. Usually nothing remains of the spirits that once had dwelled within these bones, making them brainless but useful tools for the wizards who summoned them. They can be dangerous foes, but their very nature makes them susceptible to heavy weapons, since one strong hit can shatter them to pieces.

If not aiding a mage, skeletons can usually be found in dungeons, graveyards or near their place of death. They also can suddenly stand up from a pile of bones, surprising the unsuspecting traveler.

Skeletons stayed the same in the whole series, although in Ultima III they were grouped together with ghouls and zombies. In Ultima VIII, skeletons usually were armed with axes, while in Ultima IX, they couldn't be destroyed since they always regenerated.

Lore




Notable examples

 * Demitry and Banter were two of several skeletons and other undead found in the ruins of Magincia during Ultima IV who spoke to the Avatar; both had knowledge of the Silver Horn.
 * Lothar, a skeleton with a spirit, appears in dungeon Covetous in Ultima IX. He can only be defeated with the Gringolet sword, and once the sword is sacrificed, his spirit is free to finally leave.
 * Also found in Covetous in Ultima IX: the biggest skeleton ever encountered (seen at right).

Trivia



 * Ultima V marks the first time skeletons were seen in the series as "dungeon dressing". In certain dungeons, humanoid skeletons can be found chained to the walls. Their eyes flicker red occasionally as if they are animated, but crumble to dust when searched.
 * Skeletons were to be included in the cancelled Ultima X. Link: Ultima X Skeleton