Corpse Knight #1 (2026), created by Michael Chaves and Matthew Roberts, is a haunting blend of historical drama and supernatural horror. Set against the grim backdrop of the Hundred Years’ War, it follows a young girl’s journey through a world where death is a constant companion and faith is the only weapon against despair.
A Legacy of Loss in a Dying World
The story opens in 1429, France, a time when murder, sickness, and starvation have turned the country into a graveyard. We are introduced to a young girl named Foy and her father as they visit a grave. When Foy asks what her “Mama” was like, her father describes her as beautiful but demurs on the story of how they met, promising to tell her “one day”. This quiet, emotional moment establishes the deep bond between father and daughter in a world that offers little comfort.
Lessons in Survival and the Legend of Joan
As they travel, Foy’s father focuses on her survival. He trains her in archery, explaining that while a sword is too heavy for her, the bow is “quick and nimble”—essential for protecting herself in these “dark times”. To bolster her spirit, he shares the legend of Joan of Arc, a peasant girl who led the French army to victory at Orleans. He recounts a miracle where Joan allegedly brought a dead infant back to life through the power of prayer, telling Foy that “with enough faith… nothing is impossible”.
Ambush in the Wild
The atmosphere shifts from educational to perilous when Foy’s father senses an imminent threat. He commands Foy to take her horse, Pierre, cross the river, and ride fast without looking back. Despite his efforts to protect her, Foy is eventually intercepted by a group of ruthless marauders. These “humble travelers” reveal their true nature as they plan to split stolen goods and keep Foy for themselves.
The Emergence of the Corpse Knight
Just as the situation seems hopeless, a monstrous, supernatural entity—the Corpse Knight—emerges from the rain and shadows. The bandits are systematically and brutally slaughtered. Terrified, the remaining men believe Foy has “summoned” the creature. The girl’s fear turns to shock when she realizes the monster is wielding her father’s sword.
A New Mission Begins
The story reaches its emotional climax as Foy approaches the ghastly figure. In a heartbreaking realization, she recognizes the undead creature as her father, resurrected in a horrific new form. Recalling the stories he told her about the power of faith and the miracles of the Maid of Orleans, Foy determines that their only hope lies in finding the woman her father praised so highly.
The issue concludes with Foy standing beside her resurrected father, declaring their desperate new purpose: “WE MUST FIND JOAN D’ARC”.
