In the Empire, the province of Sylvania has an evil reputation and since ages past its Vampire Counts have waged war against the rest of the Warhammer world. The Vampire Count armies are shambling hordes of Skeletons and Zombies, animated by the powerful Necromantic magic of their undying masters. Bats gather in great clouds above the dead host, while supernatural wolves gather in the shadows, their spine-chilling howls tearing the dark sky. Wights are raised from ancient barrows to march forth as deadly Grave Guard; the merest touch of their weapons enough to slay. Mounted warriors ride from their graves as Black Knights, their deadly lances wreathed in unnatural energy.

All the while, unquiet spirits writhe and moan about the battlefield, while Banshees shriek the doom of the Vampires' enemies, their screams driving Men insane. Fell, ethereal Wraiths appear wielding scythes, sometimes riding atop Black Coaches pulled by red-eyed, Undead steeds.