In the run-up to the Soulblight Gravelords battletome and models going up for pre-order on Saturday, we’re taking a look at a few of the factions you can play. Yesterday, some charlatan tried to tell you to pledge allegiance to Mannfred, but you're more discerning than that. You won't be swayed by empty promises of easy power and gaudy baubles.
You're sophisticated, and that's why you'll find Queen Neferata’s Legion of Blood more to your liking. Of all the dynastic bloodlines, hers is the most venerable and distinguished. Today we’ll explore five advantages for those who offer their loyalty to the Blood Queen.
1. Make a Strong Impression
In Nulahmia, appearances are important. The ranked armies that march in perfect lockstep under the banners of the Legion of Blood are wonderful and terrible in equal measure. The living find them even more unnerving for their cold precision.
To march under her banner is to elicit a fraction of the awe and reverence due to Neferata herself.
2. Become a Valued Leader
Throngs of subordinates can hardly help but to look up to you for guidance.* The Legion of Blood considers Deadwalker Zombies to be uncouth and inelegant, but the purity of bone is more palatable. If you relish the idea of leading tireless skeletal warriors to battle, look no further.
Favoured Retainers applies to Black Knight cavalry, who can be taken as Battleline units in the Legion of Blood, plus Deathrattle units like Wight Kings, the elite Grave Guard, and others.
Do you dream of bending others to your will? Once you take the Blood Kiss, you can do that and so much more.
3. Dazzle Foes With Your Power
Some of the most powerful Nulahmian vampires possess a certain something that others find very… disarming. Use this to your advantage to keep your opponents off guard. Each faction has a set of exclusive command traits, and several of the Legion of Blood options highlight their supernatural charisma.
If that doesn’t work, you can always use potent artefacts to make them more agreeable.
4. Charm the Enemy to Death
Queen Neferata’s court has an extensive collection of exquisite jewellery, some of which is as functional as it is elegant. Imagine the look on the other player’s face when their units start attacking themselves. Talk about priceless treasure.
Neferata’s influence can be clearly seen throughout the Legion of Blood. As one of Nagash’s Mortarchs, and the original vampire, she’s one of the most influential individuals in all the Mortal Realms, as much as Mannfred and his ilk would hate to admit it.
5. The Queen Always Has Your Back
If you prove your usefulness, perhaps one day you might even bear the honour of witnessing Neferata’s prowess in battle. Her ancient dagger, Akmet-har, is capable of killing an enemy Hero in one stroke.
Neferata belongs up close, where she can feel the arterial spray across her flesh. Of course, she doesn’t go anywhere without an entourage, who enjoy a bit of extra protection from her powerful magic.
The Legion of Blood is perfect for anyone who’s looking for an army that’s heavy on Deathrattle units, and strong vampire Leaders that will make your opponent’s life more difficult.
If you find them appealing, you can order Neferata now to prepare her for war while you wait for the new battletome and models to go up for pre-order on Saturday. In fact, if you want to explore this fascinating character further, grab Neferata: The Dominion of Bones on audio and listen to it while you paint her up.
If you haven’t been keeping up on our coverage over the last couple of days, you can learn more about the Legion of Night, as well as one of the best Soulblight Gravelords units – Blood Knights. Check back tomorrow for some insight into the origins of the Soulblight curse.
* In no small part because the animated dead have no free will.