::On the cover this week is a photo of Valmion ducking into MadMadMax's low cut for the final
point of the overlord match.  Blood is just spurting out of the former Overlord's temple, and
neither duelist has any idea the match is over, so full of concentration are they.  Over this reads
DOS TODAY and at the bottom of the photo is another caption.::

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In this issue: DoS Today's Big 'n' Bloody, Good 'n' Gory, Extra-Exciting Photospread!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*    *    *

DoS TODAY   Volume 2,  Issue 5

Contents:

Letters to the Editor              page 2
Advert for Guytar's Gore      page 4
Report on the Overlord Challenge   page 5
Advert for MidnytBlue's Garden     page 7
Ask Dr. Stupid           page 8
Advert for The White Rose          page 9
Plain & Fancies               page 10
Advert for Music is Magic Nightclub     page 11
Photo spread                  page 12
Advert for Gloin's Weapon O-Rama   page 14
Advert for Arelia's Trinkets       page 14
Interview with WizSlinger          page 15
Late-breaking News            page 18

Staff:    Oscar Madison, Editor in chief
     Broadway Dan, Associate Editor (photos by Dan so stated by a BD)
     Hedda Hat, Columnist
     Simini, Columnist

*    *    *
page 2

Dear Editor,

There has recently been much published and spoken of concerning myself and my "affairs" with
the beautiful ladies of RhyDin. What may have gone unnoticed is the lack of response on my part.
As one who is oft in the political spotlight, I had learned that the best way to quell rumors (or
facts) is to say naught and let them die a timely death. For better or worse, I shall break my
custom and respond but briefly.

First let me say that I have ne'er said a word against this magazine. Neither have I spoken of liable
or slander, nor e'en of any misreporting done by your columnists. In truth, I have rather enjoyed
the DoS Today.  I find it a refreshing respite when I get a moment to settle back before a warm
fire and read it cover to cover. It is even entertaining to read about my sexual exploits, sordid love
affairs and trail of broken hearts. The only disappointment I found with Hedda's original article
about me was the comment, "In the meantime Luth, `Marry in haste, repent at leisure.'" That
implies that any woman who would be marrying me would be in for a lifetime of repentance. If
that be the case, why are so many RhyDin women supposedly running my "confession booth"? Be
that as it may, that comment was a little mean spirited, subjective, and evidently based upon the
opinions of two women who have supposedly been cast off by me, and therefore, quite biased and
uncalled for.

My second comment is regarding these two other "innocent young women."  Sidartha and I had
been friends since the day she came to RhyDin. She was a wonderful young woman whom I
greatly admired. We had a wonderful friendship and we mutually agreed that it would be and
could be nothing more than that.  We never did anything together that couldn't have been done in
full view at the inn without shocking anyone. I am greatly saddened by her suicide, and in spite of
her suicidal note to me, I refuse to take her "psychological skeletons" into my own closet.

The second "innocent young woman" is still a mystery to me. Since that issue was published at
Christmas, and I was supposed to have led this woman on "as he (I) promised earlier this month,"
I am completely baffled because I was out of RhyDin the entire first half of the month and then
again later in the month. Such a statement on my part would have been an impossibility! People
can say any nonsense to your reporters for their own reasons. As everyone knows, even
recordings of conversations can be "doctored" or completely fabricated, but that doesn't make
them true.

Well, I guess I have spoken enough. By the time this letter is published, Queen Luthien and I will
be happily married and enjoying our lives together at Castle Clatterbridge, leisurely enjoying our
"penance."  All your readers are welcome to come by for a visit.

Sincerely...
Your "Faithful" Reader,
Gavilean Starfare

P.S. BTW, it's pronounced Ga-VIL-e-an  ::going off mumbling about how people mispronounce
his name like it's some kind of motor oil::

~    ~    ~

::The wee blue bear uncapped his candy-scented pink Magic Marker and began writing in huge,
childlike block letters.::

       Dear Mr. Madison and Ms. Hat:

       I am writing to complain about Ms. Hat's lack of 
       journalistic objectivity during her interview with RhyDin 
       Archmage ConnorMcLeod where she asks: "What do 
       you think of that rotten little CareBear?" If the archmage 
       had been more familiar with me, perhaps Hedda's slanted 
       query would have influenced his answer.

::The little toy bear giggled at his magically-selected big words, and stuck out his tongue in fierce
concentration, scribing further.::

       Also, I wish to point out that a previous archmage cursed
       Toyland, not Connor. But no matter who holds that title, I 
       must vanquish him or her in order to restore peace and joy
       to CareBearville and the toy kingdom at large.

       Sincerely,


::The wee bruin rolled a forepaw over an inkpad and "signed" the letter. He squealed in delight,
and skipped to the mailbox.::

~The editors wish it be known that all letters to the editors are strictly the views of the writers and
in no way reflect the view of the magazine.  Ed.~

~    ~    ~

::staggering to the local scribes hut, his shattered arms in makeshift casts, his bruised and battered
head wrapped with a piece of his shirt::

::the note reads::
            After looking over my performances of the last month or so, not to mention all the blows
to the head and the shattering of my arms, I must with great regret submit my letter of retirement.
hopefully in time I will heal and realize where my dueling skill has gone, but, until that time I find
it an insult to the DoS and its honorable warriors to fight at anything but my best for, mentally and
physically.  Seeing as I am in poor form in both, I will place myself into retirement.
            If I do not return, I wish you all well.  Please think happy thoughts, and just have fun. If I
do return, which I am hoping for, expect a new and changed man, different but essentially the
same.

Good luck and may the road rise up to meet you all,

cullen "cryptkicker" kildarby
37th warlord of the DoS (as of this letter)


*    *    *
page 4

::the page opens on a photo of halfling Guytar standing with one hand on the hilt of his sword, the
tip of which is on the ground.  The runes on the sword are stained with bits of red.  He is wearing
his elven armor with a large button on it.  In his other hand he is holding out a bag full of amber
fluid.::

Buy my bag o' gore!
Have you ever been to a match with is completely made of defensive moves or where the
opponents just dance a lot?
Here is your solution!
You can throw it at a friend!
Juggle it!
Or for that special vampire in your life... it is guaranteed pure and safe to ingest.
It's only two gold pieces a bag... (the stuff o' life)

Are you a commoner?
Do you get sick of being put upon by warlords?
Do you see all those "Amaltea for Overlord" buttons and wish you had a button?
Well now for the very first time, you can buy my "I'm a future warlord" button.
That's right.  Let them know!
Show them that you are no common commoner!
Just one copper!
Buttons of all sorts made upon request!
For all this neat stuff and more, come see GUYTAR or if he's not around you may see Crodo foe.
I would like to give credit to Dare Ltan for showing me that there is a market out there for my
stuff.

*    *    *
page 5

The Madman Cometh

  Last Thursday, in a five round bloodfest, MadMadMax defeated Overlord Valmion for the
coveted title.  This match was shrouded in controversy as rumors of Max's kidnapping of
Valmion's baby son to use as blackmail against the Overlord were flying around the inn in record
numbers.  Did Max steal the child?  If not, where did he get the infant that he turned over to
Valmion after the duel?  If he did indeed steal the child, what does this say about the state of
dueling?  What have we become when a child's safety is in danger over a title?  Is MadMadMax a
trustworthy person at all?  Should he be stripped of the title?  Did Valmion throw the match? 
Hard questions.

  A week before the duel, Valmion's child was kidnapped.  Eyewitnesses to the event claim that
Max was responsible.  In the hours that followed, Max was seen in the shop of a local witch,
buying magical diapers, and in Star's End getting a large can of Similac from RDI Gloin.  When
questioned about the event, the shop witch agreed that Max did in fact have a baby but that he
claimed it was named LilLilMax, and that a woman on the street gave it to him.  Later reports had
Max in a spaceship which exploded taking away part of a storage facility for a shopkeeper up in
the orbital station over RhyDin.  Max himself claims that he is innocent of all charges.
  Equally disturbing is this new Charity fund Max is running.  According to an announcement
made on the boards barely 2 days from his victory, Max is now charging duelers for his calls in the
ring.  Three gold pieces per duel to go to the Retired Dueler's Home.  Where is this home?  When
we went looking for it, we couldn't find a thing.  Is Max abusing his power as Overlord and new
duel caller to make a tidy profit?  Some say yes.  Several people who did not want to be
identified, have reported that when serving drinks in the inn and the Stars End Bar and Grill and
Roach Motel, the Max pockets the gold, and mates credsticks to his own rather than scanning
them into the Inn's cash registers.
  The duel itself was quick and efficient and shows a great example of a successful slash.

Max            Valmion
Fancy Sidestep Fancy Circular Parry
Thrust              Thrust
Low Cut        High Cut
Slash               Fancy Lateral Parry
Low Cut        Fancy Duck

  Still whatever his politics or hobbies, the Overlord title demands respect.  And as the saying
goes, salute the uniform if you can't bring yourself to salute the man.  This editor can't help but
wonder if black leather is going to be mandatory dress from now on.

*    *    *
page 7

::page opens on a picture of a garden::
MidnytBlue would like to announce the opening of her Healing and Tarot Garden.  Duelers and
others welcome.  Please see her folder "Healings and Taort" in Stars' End Sector.

*    *    *
page 8

DoSToday's All New Personal Advice Column!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ask Dr. Stupid!

Dear Dr. Stupid,
  I was wondering. Why is the ale better in the Inn than the dueling room, even though it's brought
down in the dumbwaiter?
- Thirsty and Puzzled

Dear T.P.,
  The dumbwaiter actually leads to a parallel dimension where there is a limitless supply of slightly
lower quality ale. This is how RDI Kairee saves on costs, because of the amount of ale duelists
drink.
- Dr. Stupid

Dear Dr. Stupid,
  Why is it when you high cut or low cut your opponent always chooses the right parry, but when
you parry the 50/50/90 rule goes into effect?
- Bleeding in Boise

Dear Bleeding,
  Your opponent is also hampered by the 50/50/90 rule (every 50/50 guess is wrong 90% of the
time). However, attack moves are actually on the 50/50/97 rule, which carries a greater loss
percentage than a defensive move.
  Either that, or you're only fighting Warlords.
- Dr. Stupid

Dear Dr. Stupid,
  What is your name?
- Bridgekeeper

Dear Bridgekeeper,
  My name is Dr. Stupid.
- Doc Ignorant

Dear Dr. Stupid,
  What is your quest?
- Bridgekeeper

Dear Bridgekeeper,
  To find the Holy Grail.
- Stupid, M.D.

Dear Dr. Stupid,
  What is your favorite color?
- Bridgekeeper

Dear Bridgekeeper,
  Blue... no, green. AAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

~We'll be checking on the Doctor's condition and get back to you on that in our next issue.  Ed.~

*    *    *
page 9


<<<<------------------------------------------>>>>            
                           THE WHITE ROSE                      

               Catering and other hands on activities.

               Centrally located in DownTown Rhydin
               between the Red Dragon Inn and the
               StarsEnd Bar and Grill.

            Walk-ins welcome, appointments appreciated.

      ---/--\-%{@  Bria Thorne, owner and proprietress

<<<<--------------------------------------------->>>>

*    *    *
page 10

PLAIN AND FANCIES
    by Hedda Hat
************************************************************************
I'll make thee glorious by my pen,
And famous by my sword
      James Graham, 1612-1650
************************************************************************
  It's been awhile, but nevertheless the first order of business is to review the extremely ceremonial
wedding of Bapheloc and JayneLaMer.  They HAVE returned from their honeymoon (and not the
false return we all saw in the Inn one night when Baph picked up Jayne and carried her from the
room, only to be overheard screaming at her in a private room).  But let's spare a moment or
two for fond memories of the social event of the holiday season.  The very handsome Ranger
Blue, who was present from the beginning and disappeared only to return with the bride, looked
slightly uncomfortable in his formal midnight-black tunic with the *high* collar as he walked her
down the aisle. Loranth conducted the ceremony with the solemnity appropriate to an imperial
marriage.  Xenograg's red and blue uniform, gold chain and crown were quite a splendid sight at
the altar.  The maid of honor, the gravid Amaltea, was lovely in a gown of ice blue georgette in
layered skirt lengths.  The beautiful Jayne wore an off-the-shoulder elegantly simple gown of pale
green and wore heather and baby's breath in her hair.  She was, without a doubt, stunning.

Comic relief was provided by the ribald and irreverent comments of Rasitlin regarding things such
as pre-nuptial agreements and Baph's drinking habits and by the actions of Draconus in conjuring
kenders to run amuck in the congregation (although the latter were quickly dispelled at a fierce
look from the emperor).  The party continued on into the night and the scope of those
celebrations will not be matched for some time to come.

On a sadder note, Sidartha is dead - by her own hand for love of Gavilean. Seems a great pity,
doesn't it?  Especially since that affair was over long ago....so they say.  Speaking of Gavilean and
the brouhaha of several weeks ago, let me say one thing:  The success of a gossip columnist is
measured by the number of people they can tick off.  I'm quite proud of my success with this item.

Amaltea had a baby boy as you all know by now!  Congratulations to her and to Xeno on the birth
of Torin.  Mother, father, and son are doing well at latest report.  Best wishes to the happy family. 
And welcome Amal back to the dueling rings!

Speaking of Amaltea...she doesn't have a high opinion of Ulath- refusing to have him call her
duels.  She also suggests he thinks he's the last ale in the desert.  Whatever that means.

Aliyanna is pregnant....did she marry Rayn?  Why wasn't he at Baph's wedding?

Jayachin, a rather feisty fighter new to the dueling rings, is making a name for herself.  Try to
catch her next duel.

Glorhenath (formerly Duke Anton) and his former lover Poison have avoided all public comment
on their affair and the child born of it.  Poor Lady Lyre - she's too classy to deserve the public
shame of this.  Although Glor seemed appropriately ashamed and chastened and his actions in
stepping down from his title were laudable.  Of course, the Baronial Council made up largely of
his relatives have changed the law so that he can retain the Dukedom.  Why aren't I surprised?  By
the way, Poison seems reluctant to discuss her relationship with the Duke at all.  From what I can
gather, this saga is more suited to a mini-series than to a gossip column.  However, I'm happy to
listen, any of you, should you care to talk.

Next column will cover the delightful wedding of RangerBlue and Wrynnet. Make sure you pick
up that issue!

As a final comment, rumor has it that SpaceCobra is quite skilled at kissing. And I hear this from
multiple sources!  If only I were not so objective a journalist, I could ascertain the truth of this. 
Heehee.... 'Til next time, all.

*    *    *
page 11

The Music is Magic Nightclub, for the best music, food and drink in RhyDin.

Regardless of your dueling preference (swords, magic, fists or spectator), and your musical
preferences, the Music is Magic Nightclub has something for almost everyone.  Stop by, sit back,
and relax after a hard evening of dueling.  Enjoy the relaxed ambience of the most successful
nightclub in RhyDin.  Stop by our gift shop where you can get a variety of music-related
items, and help out the RhyDin Orphanage and the Halfway House at the same time.  (A portion
of the proceeds goes to these two establishments.)

Unless otherwise specified, a portion of every evening is under an "open mike" policy. 
Impromptu performances are always welcome, as long as they are within the bounds of propriety. 
(No TOSables).

(Music is Magic Nightclub, message board in From the Dragon's Mouth)

*    *    *
page 12

DoS Today Extra-Big, Extra-Fun Photospread!  All photos by our own Dan!

Picture: <Nom Elven looks surprised as his sword bounces off E Core's blade and into the
ground>
Caption: Nom and Elijah smile at each other as they duck the ring ropes to enter the ring.  Nom
begins quickly, rushing Elijah, extending his sword low.  Elijah, however, is quick to the
defensive, parrying Nom's Low cut away with a circ parry.

Picture: <Nom looks even more surprised as his blade again bounces off Elijah's and into the sky>
Caption: Elijah steps back quickly, raising his blade, swinging it across the air laterally, creating a
slight breeze. Nom rushes him, trying to gain his advantage, thrusting outward, but Elijah is too
quick. He parries Nom's blade away with his lat parry quickly for an advantage.

Picture: <Francus has a blur in front of him, as Gray Max moves off to one side>
Caption: Francus looses himself from his corner, swinging his blade in a fury of strokes, targeting
Max with a low cut, as he tries to step away.

Picture: <Simini lands on her rear, as Kalamere stands above her with his eyes closed>
Caption: In the ring of Cuteness, Kalamere slides forward, slithering along the ground almost. 
Sim steps to the side, initiating her famous Simstep (tm) but Kala is immune to the cuteness
because his eyes are shut tight, and downs her with a low cut!

Picture: <Lilian B is bending down to tie her shoe, leaving Swordblade behind>
Caption: Lilian sidesteps Sword's lateral parry for an advantage.

Picture: <Nom Elven stands in the ring, rubbing his nose and looking frustrated>
Caption: Nom saunters about the ring, confident about Elijah's move. He parries quickly, evading
Elijah for a little while, but Elijah ducks right under the blade, and comes up in front of Nom,
tweeking his nose for the advantage!

Picture: <Francus waves his sword around in front of him, while Gray Max stands behind him,
chuckling>
Caption: Francus starts out quickly, feinting a cut low, then dropping back into a perfect circular
parry. However, Max steps around it easily and pushes Francus to the ground from behind for the
advantage.

Picture: <E Core lies on the ring apron in the foreground, while Nom Elven poses for
photographers in the background>
Caption: Nom finally completes his comeback and takes the lead at 3 - 2.5.  Elijah slashes evilly,
trying to open a gash in Nom's chest, but Nom has snuck low, under the slash to deliver a
punishing blow to Elijah's ankles for the hit!

Picture: <Warder slashes at Oscar's middle, but Oscar's drives his pen into his opponent's
forehead>
Caption: In a battle of the DoS's, DoS Warder's hit misses it's target on our own DoSEditor.

Picture: <Francus and Gray Max shake hands, both bloodied, but neither down>
Caption: Good sportsmanship after a tough match ending in a tie. 5 - 4.5, with Max up, in 15
rounds.

Picture: <Kalamere's sword is sticking out of Bapheloc's chest>
Caption: A perfect thrust by Kalamere defeats a slightly less than perfect high cut by Baph.

Picture: <Bapheloc leaps up into the air and drives his sword down into Kalamere's head. Blood,
gore, and little bits of brain go flying>
Caption: Baph finds the hole in Kala's stop hit, and drives his high cut down for the win! 5 - 2.5
after 12.

Picture: <Visible around the red stains on the camera lens is DoS Warder, being sliced up by
WickedDeth>
Caption: In a bloody, awesome finale, Warder thrusts, running into a minor problem: Deth's stop
hit! Point and match to Deth, 5 - 4 in 12 rounds!

**Exclusive Duel of Fists photos!**

Picture: <PrinceFyre and Siera Red both drive their fists into each other's chin>
Caption: Whoa! Double whiplash as both fighters jab each other!

Picture: <PrinceFyre staggers back holding his shoulder, as Red lands lightly on her feet>
Caption: Stephen goes for an uppercut, but a flashing snap kick to the shoulder from Siera puts a
stop to that.

Picture: <Again, Red lands, but not on her feet this time, as Stephen stands and adjusts his ankle
pads>
Caption: This time it's Siera who goes down. Her fancy flip sends her reeling after Fyre's leg
sweep connects.

Picture: <Fyre collapses as Siera's leg trips him up>
Caption: Stephen's fancy dodge sticks him in prime position for Siera to take him out with a leg
sweep for the win!

BrdwayDan

*    *    *
page 14

::a small ad appears on the next page::
Gloin's Weapon-O-rama
 Servicing the greater RhyDIn area for over 146 years
       Sharpening and Cleaning Service
       New and Used Weapons Sales
       Consignments Negotiable
       No job too small
       Specializing in Swords and Axes
       Ask about our exclusive "Tempered Mithril" coating process  

"Shop conveniently located 3 doors south of the Red Dragon Inn"

=======================================================

::white roses with red spots circle the ad::

@    @    @    @


ARELIA'S TRINKETS

for all your dueling needs...

If she can't make it, it can't be made.

Exclusive supplier of Potion's Miracle Salve

Now featuring the latest in Leather Fashions, Eye Protection, and Scatterguns in honor of the new
Overlord

The shop is located conveniently next door to the Red Dragon Inn and the dueling basement.


@    @    @    @

*    *    *
page 15


Slinging Magic

As reported in the last issue of DoSToday, I have become intrigued with the new "sport" in
Rhydin - the Duel of Magic.   ConnorMcld became Rhydin's first ArchMage.  This was a surprise
to many who had been impressed early with the skill of WizSlinger.  Wiz was the frontrunner for
the highest honor in the sport but then faltered.  Following are Wiz' thoughts on the sport, his
position in it, and the new ArchMage. 

The interview took place in Oscar's office at DoS Today where Wiz sat in a quickly conjured
rocking chair drinking conjured wyne (your humble author drank her usual sherry which was
unusually created by Wiz) at a table which simply had to be conjured because it was obviously too
elegant for the editor's office.  

HeddaHat   : Well, let's start with a little about your history.  Where are you from?
WizSlinger : Well....I am a character from Shadowrun, Circa 2053.  I was brought to   RhyDin by
my...well, uhm, Cousin, Taki (GaijinMage).  I've been in RhyDin for....almost a year now...
HeddaHat   : Yes...in the Inns?
WizSlinger : A little, mostly I've gotten into the Duel of Magic.....
HeddaHat   : Yes...this is recent, though.  Before that?  Where did you spend time?
WizSlinger : Mostly at Taki's shop (The Late RhyDin Shopping Network)
HeddaHat   : So...what attracted you to Duel of Magic?
WizSlinger : Well, the Name, I am a Magician....
HeddaHat   : ::nods:: What kind of magic do you specialize in?
WizSlinger : I don't really have an specialty...but I've been doing a lot of enchantments recently....
HeddaHat   : Where did you learn magic?
WizSlinger : Well, my family, the McJaggerz, have taught each other magic for awhile....
HeddaHat   : Ah.  Okay then.  Let's get to DoM.
WizSlinger : ::slight grin at the mention of DoM::
HeddaHat   : You were quite active in the pre-official days, weren't you?
WizSlinger : yes, I can't remember missing any play tests of DoM
HeddaHat   : ::smiles:: Liked it, did you?
WizSlinger : ::Grin:: a little
HeddaHat   : Why do you like it so much?
HeddaHat   : Let me rephrase that.  Why did you like the pre-official days so much?
WizSlinger : Well, mainly, I kept on winning it....
HeddaHat   : ::laughs softly:: And that's why?
WizSlinger : ...and I had a good time at it
HeddaHat   : What made it so much fun - aside from winning?
WizSlinger : Well.....I didn't really have too many Magical tests....until then
HeddaHat   : So you enjoyed testing yourself against others?
WizSlinger : Yes, but my favorite person to duel was Taki
HeddaHat   : Why?
WizSlinger : ::Grin:: They were always close.....no one ever had much of an advantage....
HeddaHat   : So it was more of a challenge...
WizSlinger : Yes....I remember very well being the first non-RDI to learn the Matrix
HeddaHat   : ::grins:: Tell me about that.
WizSlinger : There's not much to tell, really, I just kept dueling, writing, and winning.....
HeddaHat   : Oh....when you said "the first non-RDI to learn"...I thought there was something to
say there
WizSlinger : Well....not really, it was a good feeling though...
HeddaHat   : Then DoM became official.  How did that feel?
WizSlinger : I was thrilled....I couldn't remember being so happy since...::his voice trails off:: 
uhm, for a while....
HeddaHat   : Since when, dear ::softly::
WizSlinger : Since I was almost twenty..
HeddaHat   : Well...you were quite happy when DoM became official.
WizSlinger : Uhm ::looks back down and settles himself:: Yes, I was
HeddaHat   : And you did quite well in the beginning.
WizSlinger : Yes, I think I had over 20 Wins over losses, which, had it been official, would have
made me the ArchMage
HeddaHat   : ::blinks:: Oh...you are counting the pre-official wins?
WizSlinger : Yes....I didn't keep track of all of them, but it was around there
HeddaHat   : Ah.  Now I speak of the Official DoM.  You did well when it started.
WizSlinger : Well, it was a "race" for the ArchMage title, I remember beating Connor in the first
Official duel...
HeddaHat   : ::nods:: How did you do that? ::grins::
WizSlinger : Well, I think I knew the Matrix better....::almost bitterly:: then
HeddaHat   : And, as I recall, you defeated almost everyone.  Then....what happened?
WizSlinger : Well.....I have only 3 people beat me officially....Connor, JakeThrash, and Dark Axe
HeddaHat   : Who was the first to defeat you?  Officially, of course
WizSlinger : Connor, after challenging him a few times he finally accepted, he won it.... I don't
think I've dueled well since then....
HeddaHat   : Do I detect some frustration that he did not accept earlier?
WizSlinger : ::Smiles:: What are you getting at?
HeddaHat   : Nothing...you sounded a tad sarcastic.  I wondered if there was something behind it.
WizSlinger : Well, he didn't accept my challenge the first time....but I found it harder to get duels
and one week no one would duel me....yesterday was the first time I duelled since then
HeddaHat   : Then....Jake happened?  When?
WizSlinger : No, Jake was at the start of the Stretch I didn't duel.....
HeddaHat   : Oh.  Tell me about the duel with Jake.
WizSlinger : ::slight groan:: well.....I just dueled my way...and he won
HeddaHat   : I don't understand how an apprentice could beat a wizard.  Can you explain?
WizSlinger : I don't know if it was luck, or skill, or what it was....but DoM is designed to allow
that to happen
HeddaHat   : Did you use advanced spells?
WizSlinger : Yes, I did
WizSlinger : The only time I have dropped spells was against Dark Axe, for...special   reasons....
HeddaHat   : Special reasons?
WizSlinger : Yes....ones I will not go into
HeddaHat   : ::smiles invitingly:: You sure?
WizSlinger : ::Mock smile:: yes, I am
HeddaHat   : ::nods in seeming acquiescence::
HeddaHat   : So...Jake, an apprentice, defeated you despite your advanced spells.  Interesting.
WizSlinger : ::getting a little upset:: for you it is.
HeddaHat   : ::smiles:: Then....did you win after Jake?  Or have your losing ways continued?
::looks at him sadly::
WizSlinger : The first one after that...I think so....but I haven't been able to do....as well
HeddaHat   : ::nods:: Connor says that you're in a "slump" and that everyone has those.
WizSlinger : ::raises an eye brow:: Connor said that?
HeddaHat   : Yes he did.  Are you surprised?
WizSlinger : A little
HeddaHat   : Why?
WizSlinger : Well....Connor and I have been competing...
HeddaHat   : He seems to have great respect for your skills.
WizSlinger : ::slight grin:: we'll have to see how good I am next time I duel...
HeddaHat   : Now....how do you feel about this Dark Axe issue about matches between lesser
levels and upper ones?
WizSlinger : Well...I don't think it is one....I think he has a point...but I EARNED my advanced
moves...Dark Axe mentioned that when he was an apprentice....I do not think he knew enough to
say that
HeddaHat   : ::Nods:: It seems to me to be a function of the newness of the sport as well.  Do you
think the apprentice who fought Connor was a fool?
WizSlinger : A fool? No, I do not think that person knew where Connor was....and, recalling a
duel of Connor's I think that person would not have dueled him
HeddaHat   : Really?  The accounts I got said she knew of his stature and thought it absurd that
no one would fight him.
WizSlinger : Had she known....
HeddaHat   : ::shrugs:: Now...you think that this fuss about levels fighting is not particularly
important?
WizSlinger : No, not really.....for now.....there is not a selection....
HeddaHat   : ::Nods::
WizSlinger : ::Starts rubbing a jewel::
HeddaHat   : ::Eyes him rubbing and worries slightly, then shakes her fears off and returns to her
questions::
WizSlinger : ::Looks at her with a bit of a smirk::
HeddaHat   : What are your plans as far as the DoM?
WizSlinger : My plans? basically become ArchMage
HeddaHat   : ::grins:: Will you be in the tournament?
WizSlinger : ::smiles:: of course and I plan to win it....
HeddaHat   : Who shapes up as your biggest competitor - not including Connor of course?
WizSlinger : ::Shrug:: no one comes to mind
WizSlinger : Except Dark Axe, but I will have all my spells this time
WizSlinger : The only thing I'm worried about is if I don't get a Power in time

(Dear Reader - See the DoM folder for an explanation of Powers and the tournament)

WizSlinger : One gets an advantage over all Attacking Spells (Dispel) and one beats all defensive
spells (Mana Wave)
HeddaHat   : So...you didn't fight DA with all your spells...were you trying to make a point?
WizSlinger : No....only for reasons I will not mention....
HeddaHat   : Why not?
WizSlinger : They are not appropriate
HeddaHat   : You chose to give him an advantage?  Doesn't that affect others dueling?  In the
ranks, that is?  Just doesn't seem quite right to me. ::shrugs, then smiles at him:: But then...what
do *I* know about such things.
WizSlinger : I still had the advantage...he had Reflect while I had Reflect, Meteor Shower and
Ghostform
HeddaHat   :  ::nods:: But you lost.  
WizSlinger : Yes, he dueled well....and I needed that spell against his style...
HeddaHat   : And you would not pay others the same compliment?  ::eyes shrewd upon him::
WizSlinger : ::Narrows his eyes, and grins:: never, not again
HeddaHat   : Was it some test of your own abilities?::smiles::
WizSlinger : Not at all....
HeddaHat   : ::makes a note::Well, then.  We are about done.  Two more questions.
WizSlinger : One thing.  If any of your readers have a problem with how I choose to duel  
people, then they should tell ME about it....::Rubbing a Dark Stone,   grinning evilly::
HeddaHat   : ::smiles broadly:: Now...I'm sure they will, dearie...Now.  Two questions.  One,
have you seen LoneJustic in action in the ring?
WizSlinger : ::Groan:: You mean what is left of him?
HeddaHat   : What is left of him? ::surprised:: What do you mean?
WizSlinger : ::Grins:: I gave my Coyote Long Claws and let him rip the Care Bear to shreds......
HeddaHat   : ::nods, remembering:: That's right.
WizSlinger : I have dueled him.....before he went Care Bear
HeddaHat   : Before he was Care Bear?
WizSlinger : Want a piece? ::Pulls out some stuffing::
HeddaHat   : Hmmmm...::frowns at the stuffing:: No thank you 
WizSlinger : During his duel with Me Monk, he turned into a Care Bear......
HeddaHat   : Hmmmm.  Last question:  What do you see in the future for yourself and for Duel of
Magic?
WizSlinger : DoM?  ....I see big things....with me as ArchMage.  As for myself....? I have nothing
further to say about that.....
HeddaHat   : What might you do if you are ArchMage?
WizSlinger : If I become ArchMage? ::Grin:: you will have to wait a little to find that out....
HeddaHat   : ::sighs:: I just hate people being evasive ::gently taps his knee with her notepad::
WizSlinger : Well..::Grins:: for you....I plan on Opening a School....to teach others
HeddaHat   : A School?  To teach magic?  Lovely!  ::laughs:: The WizSchool!
WizSlinger : Yes....I plan on opening it as soon as possible...
HeddaHat   : AFTER you become ArchMage?
WizSlinger : I was thinking ::Draws in the Air, lighting it purple "The Wiz School of Magic"::
After? No, not anymore...I plan on opening it as soon as I can now....
HeddaHat   :Sounds wonderful!
WizSlinger : ::Smiles:: Thank you....I will remember this

*    *    *
page 18

Latebreaking News:

Was that ECore008 commonly known as Elijah finally making it into the Warlord ranks?

Who is this CatShakira?  She attacked beloved Feadur in the ring the other day and in the process
did grievous bodily injury to yours truly.  Where it not for the ministrations of Yasafel (aka Shar
Tal), I wouldn't be here today writing about this.  Does anyone else feel that maybe a few police
officers around the place might not be out of order to keep out this kind of riff raff?

Special DoS Today 'Blast From the Past' Report!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In a repeat of matches several years ago, Falon, many time Overlord, and Fantasy RC, Warlord to
the Stars, clashed again in the basement on Friday night. Luckily for DoS Today, there were no
less than 15 cameras on during the match.
The match started out with Falon acting defensive. RC, however, came right out of the corner
swinging:

Round#  Falon:      Fantasy RC:   Score:
1.         Sidestep      High cut     0 - 1
2.         Stop hit       Stop hit     0 - 1
3.           Duck           Low cut     0 - 2

Finally, Falon moved in for the attack, but missed, as RC moved out of the way:
Round#  Falon:      Fantasy RC:   Score:
4.           Slash      Sidestep       0 - 2.5

Falon immediately called for a time out. DoS Today was able to get a transcript:
RDI Ulath  : In RING TWO, RC sidesteps right around Falon's slash, smiling as Falon eats dirt.
RDI Ulath  : Dirt.. mm.. good.
RDI Ulath  : 2.5 - 0 RC after 4.
Falon      : Time out.
Falon      : I distinctly did NOT eat dirt.
Fantasy RC : ::looks to Falon::
Siera Red  : (LOL Falon!)
RDI Ulath  : ::laughs::
Falon      : ::looking around for witnesses::  Did anyone here see me eat dirt?
JakeThrash : (( lol falon ))
Falon      : I didn't think so.
Fantasy RC : ::raises hand:: I did
BrdwayDan  : Nope, Fal, and I've got it on film! :)
DoSEditor  : ::holds up a Polaroid:: 
Fantasy RC : <chuckles at Falon>
DoSEditor  : Caption:  Falon eats dirt.
Cryptkickr : nah,ya' just sniffed it real good
Falon      : Editorializing is his job.  :pointing to Oscar::
DoSEditor  : ::smiles innocently::
RDI Ulath  : Trust me, Fal.. you ate dirt.
Falon      : Thanks, BD.
Falon      : Time in.

Continuing the match, Falon dived in for the attack, hitting RC four times in a row!
Round#  Falon:      Fantasy RC:     Score:
5.          Low cut      High cut       1 - 3.5
6.       High cut   Fancy Sidestep   2 - 3.5
7.           Thrust      Low cut         3 - 3.5
8.          Low cut      High cut        4 - 4.5

As the match grew close, the duelers grew cautious, resulting in no points for round 9.
Round#  Falon:          Fantasy RC:   Score:
9.     Fancy Sidestep  Fancy Duck   4 - 4.5

But in round 10, Falon attempts a low cut for the lead, but RC blocks it quickly for the match!
Round#  Falon:      Fantasy RC:   Score:
10.        Low cut   Circle parry   4 - 5

Following the ceremonies after the match, such as bowing to everybody in sight, and dumping
Gatorade on Fantasy RC, the two duelists shook hands grinning, and parted, RC to continue
dueling, and Falon, leaving for a 'hot date', as he said.

This match brought back memories of matches back in the olden days of dueling three years ago,
when Falon was Overlord, and Fantasy RC was the top ranked Warlord.

DoS Today sends a message of Good Dueling, and good luck to the two time-warping
competitors.

*    *    *

Coming up in the next issue!

A new feature by Simini about the origins of some of the swords we all see in the basement!

Another column by Hedda Hat!

And as always gorgeous color photos by BrdwayDan!

Until then, Happy Dueling!  :)


Disclaimer:
 
DoS Today is an independently produced magazine in no way affiliated with the official DOS
game, the Free Form Gaming Forum, or AOL.  The information herein should not be considered
the views of AOL or its staff.
Thank you.