We're pleased to announce the latest phase in our updates to bashing, or combat against denizens. As with all phases of this update, these are made in an effort to provide more depth and fun to this aspect of the realms. I'm sure you're all chomping at the bit to get to the meaty details, so without further ado:

* Battlerage (HELP BATTLERAGE) has been added to Achaea! This skill utilises a new resource (rage) that you gain while attacking denizens. Rage powers a slew of new abilities: five per class and dragon colour! These abilities range from straight damage attacks to denizen afflictions and conditional damage based upon the afflictions affecting the denizen. Some classes also gain abilities to provide defensive benefits to themselves and their allies.

* Each class will automatically gain the abilities in the Battlerage skill as they level up. No lessons required! Abilities are earned at levels 6, 20, 40, 60, and 80. If you drop below one of these levels, you lose the ability until you regain that level.

* Some abilities are dependent upon afflictions given by other classes, so you'll get the most benefit from Battlerage by teaming up with friends of other classes and hunting together.

* To allow for more interesting fights, and the opportunity to use the Battlerage abilities more effectively, we've made each fight last longer by increasing denizen health pools across the lands. Don't worry, though... we've also increased their experience and gold/talisman drop rates to compensate!

Owing to the massive magnitude of this change, and the desire to make your bashing experience an enjoyable one, we'll be keeping a close eye on things and making adjustments over the coming days while we get the balance "just right" in terms of fun and rewards.

Penned by My hand on the 6th of Valnuary, in the year 684 AF.