Editing Announcements - 2002/08 - Atonement (section)

== Rollout Article ==

{{Microsoft Zone
 |  Link = <nowiki>http://www.zone.com/asheronscall/news/asheeventrollout0802.asp</nowiki>
 |  Date = August 15, 2002
 | Title = Atonement
 |  Text =
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<font color=#FFFFFF>'''(View the teaser movie [[Announcements - 2002/08 - Atonement #Video|<font color=#FFFFCC>here</font>]] : 14.5 MB)'''</font>
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An uneasy peace had settled over the town since the final defeat of the Elemental Generals and the appearance of the portal to Gaerlan's Sanctum. Accounts from those daring enough to enter said the halls of the sanctum echoed with incantations. Strangely, although these brave souls said they heard the words of the spells in another language, the words' meanings appeared in their minds. Gaerlan seemed to be calling the elemental forces together into one form. Considering his contempt for Derethians, all knew this didn't bode well for them. However, Gaerlan's efforts seemed to have been stymied by the loss of his "vessel," the missing Nuhmudira that he had been planning to use to contain the Elemental force. It was hoped that this obstacle would prevent Gaerlan from completing his work. In spite of that, it appeared now that he had pushed forward, with cataclysmic results for Yanshi.
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It began with an earth-shattering explosion violently shaking the people of Yanshi from their beds. Pure mana exploded up from the earth below Yanshi, igniting the buildings of the town and sending the residents fleeing. Those that couldn't escape were killed in the explosions, but the Lifestones resurrected all--save one. The Jeweler Xao Wu never appeared. The survivors were stunned, for only a few had truly died a violent death since Asheron had perfected the Lifestones. The question was muttered among them: had Gaerlan found a means of breaking their connection to the Lifestones?
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Yet the desperate times have brought boons to mages and warrior alike. The Arcanum's continued research into Empyrean transmutation techniques has resulted in new abilities for Tinkers. Now that they can imbue weapons and wands with abilities unseen before, Tinkers know they will be getting little sleep in the days to come. At the same time, the world's magical fields continue to shift, giving war mages new spells and increased power. After suffering from the effects of Gaerlan's tampering for months, these new abilities are a welcome change.
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Along with all of this, tales are being told though that Martine has shaken off his stupor, and that the people of Dereth, coupled with the visit of young Prince Borelean, were responsible for helping him. As fantastic as these tales sound, more surprising events have happened. All that the people of Dereth can do is prepare themselves for the battles that are sure to come.
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Following is a list of the most interesting additions made to the game with this update. However, please note that not everything has been included--that would spoil the fun of finding out all manner of things added or changed! As usual, though, the town criers, barkeeps, and scribes may know the latest news. Also, the trades of crafting and selling are always in flux, so changes to prices and features are not always listed here in their entirety.
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<font color=#FFFFFF>'''Highlights Include:'''</font>
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:* The people of Dereth have reminded Martine of his humanity.
:* New abilities and spells are available for War Mages.
:* A new style of armor is to be found in the land.
:* Magic Item Tinkering makes it debut.
:* More Residential Quarters are available for purchase.
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Be sure to check the [[Announcements - 2002/08 - Atonement #Release Notes | <font color=#FFFFCC>Developer's Notes</font>]] for August and the [[Announcements - 2002/08 - Atonement#Letter to the Players | <font color=#FFFFCC>Letter to the Players</font>]] to learn more details of the ''Atonement'' event. Join us as we continue the ongoing saga of Asheron's Call, and we'll see you in Dereth!

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