The ruler of Wallachia was known for his cruel punishments, especially the impaling of his enemies on wooden stakes. His legendary exploits provide the inspiration for the story of Dracula. His story is one of power and terror. Dracula fought well against the Ottoman Empire and was regarded as a hero in the defense of Christian Europe. His name later became the archetype of the vampire Count Dracula, who was portrayed in Bram Stoker's novel as an immortal vampire who lived in a castle in Transylvania and was able to survive by drinking blood.