his level of intrigue is perfect for those who prefer combat to role-play. Many who play at this level of intrigue will become Helldivers, Doomslayers, or any one of the Orders of the Hierarchy that take the battle to Oblivion and its minions directly. Players at this level often concentrate on defending the local Citadel and hunting Spectres for bounty.

Oblivion is a powerful enemy, and many are not strong enough to withstand it. These lost souls, called Spectres, terrorize the Shadowlands and fill the Tempest to bursting with their grotesque selves and malevolent desires. The war with Oblivion – and specifically Spectres – has been going on since everything began. The first wraith to enter the Shadowlands had to deal with her dark side. It probably wasn’t long after that that the first Spectres appeared. So this battle has been going on for a long time, fought by Restless from all walks of life. It crosses faction boundaries, social boundaries, and financial boundaries.

Many think that all Spectres are like bandits and undisciplined mobs. Some are but what many forget is that Spectres are determined, and you should never be contemptuous of determination, or it will prove you yourself to be contemptible, yes? Even if history were not full of examples of careless and overconfident officers who were overwhelmed by troops far less well equipped and motivated than the average Spectre, there is still reason to be concerned.

Nobody knows how many Spectres there are, but there are a lot. Nobody knows where they’re going to come from next, in what strength or with what powers and infernal devices. The only thing that is known about them is their intention: complete and utter destruction.

Though Spectres’ weapons are poorly made, they are usually of Stygian Steel, and will do horrendous damage to a wraith if they connect. A Spectre does not care if he exists or does not exist, so you cannot frighten or bargain with him. He is in constant maddening torment, so you cannot make treaties with him. He is very aware of his surroundings and can talk with other Spectres nearby, so if you are seen by one Spectre you can assume that you have been seen by all of them.

Wraiths fear Spectres both for their actual horrifying actions and abilities, but also the final horror they represent: the negation of the Psyche. They have completely lost the battle with Oblivion, but are too strong or useful to be completely consumed, and this is the worst fate most Restless can imagine. Nothing can be more frightening than recognizing an old friend’s face with a Spectres eyes.