This spell is an improved version of the fifth level Animate Dead spell. The effects are generally the same; skeletons and zombies are created. The differences lie in the power of the undead thus made.

The caster is able to focus more power into his undead minions using this spell. He may animate up to half his level in HD (ex. a 20th level mage could animate 10 HD of undead). These hit dice can be distributed among the remains. Continuing the above example, the mage could animate 10 1 HD skeletons, 5 2 HD, 1 6 HD and 1 4 HD, or even a 10 HD skeleton or zombie up to a maximum total of half his level.

These superior undead have at least 3 hp per HD, animal intelligence, and human speed and power (normal human initiative and weapon damage). For every HD above 10, the undead receives an additional point to intelligence. All undead created with this spell are lawful evil and are turned as wraithes regardless of HD.

The spell components are a bone shard, a piece of human or humanoid brain, and a drop of the caster's blood on the forehead of the undead-to-be.