The Soul Wars started with a surprise attack by the Nighthaunt on a gathering of Order dignitaries who were meeting with the mysterious Idoneth Deepkin. Zeraphina Heldensdotter, Knight-Incantor of the Hammers of Sigmar and Bael-Grimnir, Runefather of the Vorstarg lodge were had been granted an audience with Valenturnous, Akhelian King of the Ionrach enclave with the intention of discussing the recent emergence of the sea elves and their part in the Necroquake.

It was then that Lady Olynder, Nagash's latest Mortarch, surprised the gathering as they attacked from within the seemingly unbreachable fortress walls. Although they took many losses, including the Duardin Runefather, the forces of Order managed to hold their ground and eventually the undead had to make their retreat. The battle ended in a stalemate but the Soul Wars had just begun.