::On the cover this time, Feadur thrusting into a high cutting FantasyRC the blood arcing in a tiny fan outward.  Around the ring can be seen the faces of caller Luthien and bright eyed SieraRed. 
Over this reads DOS TODAY::


::On the cover this time, Feadur thrusting into a high cutting FantasyRC the blood arcing in a tiny 
fan outward.  Around the ring can be seen the faces of caller Luthien and bright eyed SieraRed.  
Over this reads DOS TODAY::

DoS TODAY   Volume 2,  Issue 12
Contents:
Letters to the Editor              page 2
Advert for Marx's Souvenir Stand   page 4
Editorial                page 5
Advert for the Bootery        page 6
Plain and Fancies             page 7
Advert for Lady Arane's Hair Salon page 8
Report on Duel of Fists       page 9
Advert for Gloin's Weapon O-Rama   page 11
Advert for Arelia's Trinkets       page 11
Simini's Swords               page 12
Advert for Falire's Chimney Service     page 13
Who are They? A look at the Barons page 14
Advert for The White Rose          page 16
So You Want to Be a Fist Fighter   page 17
Advert for Ali's Pleasure Chest    page 19
Late-breaking News            page 20

Staff:    Oscar Madison, Editor in chief (DoSEditor)
     Broadway Dan, Associate Editor (BrdwayDan)
     Hedda Hat, Columnist (HeddaHat)
     Simini, Columnist (Simini x)
     Dr. Stupid, Advice Columnist (DrStupidMD)
     Jake Thrash, DoF correspondent (JakeThrash)

*    *    *
page 2

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Oscar,
On my so-called return.
   I am, truthfully, not fully returned from my wanderings, but I should appear often enough to get in an occasional duel and watching my record go kaput.
  I will post a notice on the public boards when I am fully returned, to make sure that everyone understands the situation fully. Then my return will be, though not as full as it once was, more fully than this.
  And I know I missed somebody and one of my friends can update me on anything I should know about... Kal. :-D 
  Also, expect more than a passing glance from the upper ranks from me very soon... DoS has gone without a Ltannian overlord for too long. };-D
 ~Dare
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Oscar,
You did pose a question in your last issue of DoSToday about the outcome of an Overlord match that is yet tied at 15 rounds. I did call such a match some while back--I cannot remember who the duelers were though it seems to me that one of them was JSVRamirez. 
Though a match is tied after 15 rounds in other cases, an Overlord match enjoys no such limit--once a challenge is made and accepted, an Overlord must be decisively determined. I cannot recall either how many rounds the match I speak of went, but it was indeed longer than 15 rounds. 'Twas exhausting to call--I can only imaging what it must have been to fight.
Siera
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~






Dear Oscar,
It's interesting that you should have mentioned both MorganCrow and me as 'new' Warlords in the same sentence, since Morgan is not actually a 'new' warlord (he's had his warlord status fluctuate as he challenges the best duelists in pursuit of 'peer wins'); but, more importantly, the two of us have a strong 'friendly rivalry' which goes back a few months... (BTW I know Morgan has no problem with me telling this story and seeing his name in print -- quite the opposite, actually!) Morgan first appeared in the DoF back in January or February under a different screen name.  As Jake can attest, I have a habit of welcoming new members to the duels, teaching them the rules of the game, politely suggesting that they try it out, and then kicking the stuffing out of them in the ring.  Afterwards, I help them up, dust them off, buy them an ale or two, and teach them a few pointers for the next time.
Such was the case with Morgan; I initiated him into the DoF, the DoS and also the DoM (although we were both novices there), beating him four times straight in three different arenas.  Naturally, this aroused a certain amount of 'competitive spirit' in him.  Changing his screen name (to sidestep a poor losing record in the DoS) Morgan appeared and began his swift rise to Warlord in the DoS.
This was apparent in the next bout we fought, which Morgan won (although he was an M&A with two fancies and I but a commoner with none).  Since then we have fought four more times: twice in the DoM (tie), once in the DoF (tie), and once more in the DoS.
The most recent DoM bout and the DoS bout are worth noting; the magic duel was a see-saw battle with Morgan taking the lead 4.5 to 3.5 in round thirteen only to see me come back and tie it 4.5 all in 15 rounds.
Our DoS duel attracted a lot of attention last Sunday, as many who knew us well stood by and cheered:

Percival       Morgan

f lat parry     stop hit          0-0
thrust           f circ parry     0-1
LC               LC                0-1
thrust           f lat parry       0-2
f lat parry      LC                0-3
HC               thrust            0-4
f duck          f circ parry     1-4
LC                LC                1-4
duck             HC               1.5-4
LC               stop hit          2.5-4
thrust           slash             3.5-4
LC                LC                3.5-4
Stop hit         sidestep        3.5-4
LC                thrust            3.5-5


I have watched with great interest Morgan's meteoric rise in the DoS and have great respect for him and his pursuit of a Barony.  Moreover, I (as Jake has often mentioned) have had my eye on the Diamonds for some time.  But, the tables have indeed turned, the student has become the Master, and I look forward to someday beating Morgan in the DoS (I was so sure he would duck in that last round....)
There is also a tale to be told of a mutual love-interest that further sparked our rivalry, but that's a story for another time...
Yours, respectfully,
-Percival















*    *    *
page 4

For the latest in Dueling memorabilia stop by Marx's Dueling Souvenir Stand.
Some of the goods to be had all featuring the duelist of your choice:
Siera Red memorabilia of every description
Pennants
Buttons and pins
Refrigerator magnets
salt and pepper shakers
Postcards
Potholders
Pogs and Slammers!
Inflatable egos
Aspendale Mouth Soap
Ecore008 Boomerangs (they die, retire, and still keep coming back)
Bobbinghead Dolls
ArchMage scythes featuring Lord Harvest
And Dark Axe genuine faux Diamonds to celebrate his rank
The Stand can be found on the message boards in the folder "Dreamweavers Lair" under "Souvenir Stand"

*    *    *
page 5

My my my...
  Is it time for poor old Oscar to pontificate on the matter of honor yet again?  Apparently so, because yet again the basement bulletin board is filled with pages of drivel about the honor or lack thereof of the Overlord.
  And retired Baron Aspendale's comments about Feadur the Dark Elf.  Prejudice now?  Racism? 
What have our duels become?  Aspendale has proven that even in these "so-called" enlightened days, prejudice from nothing more than skin color or the country of one's birth still exists in the hearts of some.  Shameful is what it is.  Shameful that a man be judged not on his actions or character but on his skin color.
  Now as to his actions.  Baron Feadur stood up for his Overlord in what is his right.  He did not see the challenger FantasyRC as worthy.  This is not a judgement that we as fellow duelists may make for him.  It is a personal choice.  And when Feadur said he did not deem RC as worthy to challenge the Overlord, he was not by extension saying that RC was a bad man or even a lousy duelist.  (Unless of course he was, but I don't think that this was the case in this instance).  By the very rules that Falon flaunts with his verbose papers upon the board, Feadur was well within them to step before his Overlord and challenge her challenger.  There is no question of cheating.  There is no question of honor.  Feadur stepped forward and took the challenge, and beat RC.  It was his right within the rules and he exercised it.  This does not make him dishonorable.  This does not make Red a coward to hide behind him.  For is there any that would say Red would not have dueled RC should he have won?  That would have been cowardice indeed.  And I for one would not go to Red and say such a thing to her.  I do not have a death wish. 
  Since we are on the subject of honor... I would like to suggest some food for thought.  There are several frequent posters on the boards who decry the perceived weaknesses of their fellow duelists with loud voices, listing their grievances, and bemoaning a lack of honor in the duels.  I suggest to these people to examine their own "honorable" hearts before casting stones around.  As I see it from this desk, their homes are rather brilliant and impressive in the sunshine, but transparent and hollow in the dark of night.  Where is the honor of calling out one's fellow duelist and humiliating his name on the board?  Where is the honor of quibbling in the duels over the use of a fancy?  Where is the honor of siding yourself with whom you perceive to be the honorable
ones so that their glory might associate down upon you?
  With a tip of the hat to one Forrest Gump and paraphrasing to fit... honor is as honor does. But then that's just my opinion...      ~Oscar










*    *    *
page 6

BOOTS

Hey!  Tired of all those low cuts tearing your boots to ribbons?  Tired of your fashion statement becoming a fashion flop after one night's dueling?
Shespeaks has the answer for you.
The Bootery-- serving the Greater RhyDin area
Come down and try on some of Shespeaks' custom designs!  You'll swear you were walking on air.
Photo:  <<Two feet stick out from the bottom of the photo, clad in what appears to be long grey fur... Up the slippers, for that's what they are, are two long ears, touched with tufts of fur at the ends... Beyond those, are two large eyeballs, that are staring up at the camera... A large mouth on each slipper, full of sharp teeth, sticks its pinkish tongue out, as the Orc-slippers seem to sneer in mild disgust>>
Caption: "Shespeaks stole me boots, but I've got these dandy Osric the Orc slippers... Oh, and me boots are on sale at the Bootery. -BrdwayDan"  Another satisfied customer!
The Bootery can be found on the message boards in the folder Red Dragon Innsights under "The Bootery"

*    *    *
page 7

PLAIN AND FANCIES
    by Hedda Hat
*****************************************************
I'll make thee glorious by my pen,And famous by my sword
      James Graham, 1612-1650
*****************************************************
Let me start this column with an apology to Rayn DF and Aliyanna.  In the last column, by virtue of juxtaposition, I seemed to imply that their relationship had faded away and the individuals involved would reappear at some point in the future with no mention of their erstwhile spouse.  While this is often the case, and I find it irritating, it is certainly NOT the case with Rayn and Ali.  In fact, their relationship is drawn out and played out in all its melodramatic glory and angst in various sites - from Star's End to their folder.  So apologies to both individuals - their relationship is a joy to ... well, let's say enjoyable to ...well...let's just say watchable.  
Speaking of Rayn, the extraordinary ending of Utah Jimmy was rather like one of those fascinating foreign films.  Filled with amazing acts worthy of one's attention even though you don't have a clue why they're doing what they're doing.  Few will miss the obnoxious Jimmy.  However, his perfidy seems to be approximated by the idiotic killers who went after him in a crowded bar.  It all started as a simple wedding, officiated by RDI Marx (and he certainly deserves more money considering how many memorable weddings he hosts) to unite Jimmy and the lovely Kaimbrea.  Just after the exchange of rings, bullets and other firearms rang out - in
blatant disregard of innocent bystanders in the bar.  The self-obsessed attackers?  DarsnMajl, MichaelJns, Rayn DF, Snowknigt, Vallienne, Jayachin, and probably others.  The action finally shifted to Jimmy's ranch in a scene reminiscent of the attack in Waco, Texas a year ago.  You know the picture - burned out house shell and cinders all around (I know because they ruined a fine pair of my heels).  Final tally?  Utah Jimmy - dead; Kaimbrea - widowed and in shock; Rayn -seriously injured; Snowknigt - alive again; DptyJacobs - dead; Jayachin - wounded; poor Marx - wounded but recovering...and the beat goes on.  Unfortunately - in true Rhydin fashion, everyone survived who wanted to. You know - death often comes to the unready.  Really....couldn't we add some drama to these scenes by making them a tad more realistic?  Heck - no one liked the Bobby Ewing thing, you know.  
Didja know that Xenograg kathu-Darelir is a "Lesser Master of Sorcery?"  He fought the first duel of magic ever fought!  Speaking of lesser, Dark Axe is the opposite.  He's a Greater Master of kissing.  I know, believe me, I know.  Just ask Jonalyn - she was there.
Have y'all noticed Procyonn?  Of course, how could you miss a raccoon duelist?  But I can't help wondering...has rabies been cured in Rhydin?  He's kinda cute and all, but... OH! And speaking of rodents - anyone know why Marx dislikes me?  I'm awfully cute and everyone else is *so* fond of me.  Send along any theories you have.  Oops, gotta go!  Have to interview the Emmy losers......see ya around and about!
*    *    *





page 8

Hair Today Gone Tomorrow
Lady Arane would like to invite all you unfortunate victims of mistimed ducks and sidesteps who have lost their fancy beehives to a wicked thrust or high cut to come on down to her hair salon today and get a new 'do, just in time for the summer slaughter soon to begin.
Lady Arane does a wide variety of 'dos and would be happy to help you choose the one that's just right for you.  Come on down today.
((Lady Arane's Salon can be found in the "From the Dragon's Mouth" folder))
*    *    *
page 9
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
News from the Outback
   Lots of news from over in the Outback.  For those of you who still haven't heard, the Duel of Fists has undergone some revisions to the rules.  Those revisions were implemented as of 5/6/95 and so far so good!  The modifications seem to have met with approval and of course we want to invite everyone in to give them a try!
   The next item of interest is that we are preparing to have another Diamond Quest to determine who's the baddest of the bad amongst our top-ranking pugilists.  Date has yet to be formally announced, but the weekend of June 9th is likely.
   June is going to be a big month for the Outback.  In addition to the second Diamond Quest taking place, June is set to be the month that the Duel of Fists moves to two nights a week on a permanent basis.  In conjunction with this Panth has pulled out all the stops, with help from the splendiforous Kairee, to open with a bang!  On June 2nd Panth will be issuing prizes (of Comp Time) to the dueler who during the course of the month of May WINS the greatest number of fights, to the dueler who LOST the most fights in May, and to the dueler who shows the most improvement during the course of May.  In addition to the prizes already mentioned, Panth has
also arranged to raffle off additional prizes as an incentive to get more people to wander in during our big kick-off weekend.  For more details, wander by the Duel of Fists folder and check out Panth's announcement of the contest rules!
   One final bit of news, for those of you who remember it, Panth has reinstated the Odds statistic into the Duel of Fists rankings!  Ever wonder how to figure out who's most likely to win a particular bout?  Or desire to place a wager on the outcome of a match?  Well now you can!
Report for the weekends of 6 and 13 May
   The 6th was the first night using the modified matrix over in the Outback. At first it shook the duelers up a bit, and because of that we had a lot of "spars" take place that were not for score while the fighters adapted to the changes.  Once that happened things seem to roll right along!  We had a good number of duels on both weekends and we got a number of comments about the changes all of which seemed to be favorable.
   In spite of the new matrix, we still had movement among the ranks and to those that increased in rank, a hearty congratulations.  Well done!
   As always we don't want to forget to welcome our latest new-comers, No 1 Knowz, Draco Baen, Akane desu, RonanPayne, TR2skh, Bruce62062, Magic26140 and KAHLUA1.  We hope to see them all again very soon!  

                            ****************  AP *******************
   *** In need of relieving some stress? *** Feel like taking out your aggressions the old-fashioned way?  Or just enjoy throwing an opponent into the ropes!  Well, the little town of RhyDin has just the thing for you!  It's called the Outback!  And there's no holds barred!  Wander in!  Find out why 9 out of 10 brawlers say it's the best thing since the invention of band-aids! Come on down and give it a try!
   And for those who just like watching grown men and women pound each other senseless, there's plenty of ale for the enjoying, courtesy of the famed Red Dragon Inn. 
                             ****************  AP ******************













*    *    *
page 11
::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 Crimson and Gold evening wear for all your formal dueling events in honor of the Overlord.
Still Available!  Copies of Overlord Siera Red's favorite book "How to be a Lady" and "Serving Boy's Woes" by one of the young men of the basement.
The shop is located conveniently next door to the Red Dragon Inn and the dueling basement.
@    @    @    @
*    *    *
page 12
  THE FAMED FALON FEMORBROOK AND THE SWORD OF LIFE  
  The following is the latest in the exciting and oh-so-informative series of articles featuring various duelers and their weapons. If you would like to see the story of your sword (broomstick, dead animal, dagger, submachine gun, etc)  appear here, please get in touch with Simini x via email...
   "They slither as a family of snakes, bent on destroying any who would venture into their nest." 
   Thus Falon Femorbrook, self-proclaimed son of the Duel of Swords, describes the current Overlord and her Barons.
   After much communication with lawyers, what began as an interview for a regular feature column became a forum for discussion on the hottest buzz in the basement today... Falon's self-exile from dueling. The boycott has angered some and amused others, but his mission is clear; to "try to point out the error of their ways".
   We sat in the south garden of Lodiel, an estate I found to be striking in its simplicity. A bit of a flower fanatic myself, I appreciated the view the low blackstone walls afforded... the center of the garden was an elegant statue of a young girl kneeling to pick a flower. Falon himself sat elegantly upon a bench, his flowing bleached-blonde hair a cool complement to the white silk garb he wore. From the west came the most pleasant music, and servants, although ever-present, were quite unobtrusive, nearly invisible. I was quite entranced by the place.
   We began by speaking of the Sword of Life, the famed blade Falon has used in Duel of Swords for many years. Going through the basic questions, I learned that the blade was presented to Falon from the Eodin, a "rarely seen fanatical cult", for the purpose of performing his duties as the Nexus of the Mystic Keep. In other words, Falon's job is to "span time, space, wistac, inversal...well, the nine known dimensions, and to insure the balance of mystical energies in the multiverse. The sword is a conduit for me... with it I can channel mystic energies to right an imbalance."
   The blade's energy comes from the gods of Light; however, according to Mr. Femorbrook, it is a sentient being... the sword itself is alive. In his words, "You know... sentient. Living. Not dead. It has its own conscience. It's my friend. And I don't think it wants me to say any more of it now.
::winks::
Simini  xx:    ::nods agreeably, aware of the pre-interview contract::
Simini  xx:    ::tries to put aside her immense curiosity for the moment and move to the next question::
Simini  xx:    ::clears her throat::  Alright... moving along, then...
Falon:    So, let's cut to the chase shall we?
Falon:    Does the sword duel for me?  That's what you want to know, right?
Simini  xx:    Tell me about... ::interrupts herself:: The chase, Mr. Femorbrook?
Simini  xx:    ::smiles politely::
Falon:    ::nods an apology for stepping on her question::
Falon:    No.  It does not.
Simini  xx:    Mr. Femorbrook... ::eyebrow raised in amusement::
Simini  xx:    ::pleased he answered his own question::
Falon:    ::reaches for his drink again::
Simini  xx:    ... I do not think even a sentient sword can duel *for* someone...
Simini  xx:    ...it still must be guided by the strong hand that wields it, does it not?
Simini  xx:    ::smiles again, a faint twinkle in her eye, watching him::
Falon:    Oh, forgive me.  I did not mean to imply that the sword could not.  It simply doesn't.
Simini  xx:    ::leans back a bit, settling into the chair::
Falon:    ::blinks a smile through his eyes::
Simini  xx:    ::tilts her head, interested in his answer:: I see... ::grinning, and writing::
Falon:    ::a light hum becomes audible from somewhere behind Sim::
Simini  xx:    Tell me about some of the battles you have been through with the Sword of Life...
Simini  xx:    ::conversationally, then she turns her head, distracted by the hum::
Falon:    ::a shadow from the sun stretches across Sim's face as the famed sword hovers above her and slowly glides to Falon's table::
Simini  xx:    ::eyes widen to the size of plates, watching the sword::
Falon:    ::smirks at the sword::  Bad sword.  Bad bad sword.  You'll scare the wits out of someone doing that.
Simini  xx:    ::hand stops its incessant writing::
Falon:    My apologies, mame.  ::smirking at the sword again::
Simini  xx:    ::blinks, then looks from the sword to Falon::
Simini  xx:    ::speechless::
Falon:    Battles.  No, I don't recall ever being in a battle.  Not my line of work at all. I'm in the balance  business.
   I then wanted to interview the sword itself, but Falon informed me that it speaks only to him, and "in fact, it has little interest in the comings and going of normal folk and usually ignores them." Not sure what *that* meant, I moved on with the interview, but Falon seemed distracted, like he was tired of the topic. Observing this, I let him direct the conversation, and it went straight to the discussion of his recent posts in the basement.
Falon:    That Siera...  ::shaking his head:: ...she sure has gotten confused.
Simini  xx:    ::knowing that this is what he wanted to speak of all along, letting him talk::Confused, sir?
Falon:    Ever since that accursed mage got his slimy hands on her she's gone the route of evil I'm afraid.
Falon:    Yes, confused.  She was once a proud individual.  Now she cowers to the politic. Sad it is.
Falon:    Now, take RC... There's a fine fellow who deserves a shot at the title.
Simini  xx:    ::nods in sincere agreement of RC's worthiness of Overlord::
Simini  xx:    What do you think Siera's motive is, then, Mr. Femorbrook?
Falon:    ::seemingly oblivious to her last question::  And Falire, yet another worthy of the title...
::leaning forward, placing a hand on the arm of Sim's chair::  Time was... no Overlord would THINK of not taking a challenge upon themselves. No mame... But today... They slither as a family of snakes, bent on destroying any who would venture into their nest.
Falon:     It's these infurnal rules. They are the root of the evil. These men and women take the law and bend it to suit their security... when they should be looking at what is not said in the rules that would allow them to soar with the eagles. Example.  This Moraltoff fellow says the rules mean that he only has to duel once a month... I contend that the rules don't say that he can't. If his heart was in the duel and not in his title and in the rules, he would duel freely and take on all comers.  What is life if you spend it cowered down in security? It is a waste of life is what it is.
Simini  xx : ::a little flushed at the vehemence of his words:: And do you aim to change this, Mr. Femorbrook?
Falon      : I, who am I to make changes?  Nay, it is for the dueling community to make changes, not I. I can only try to point out the error of their ways.
Simini  xx : Why is that, sir? ::smiles:: Why not lead the way with the light of your sword? ::gently, almost conspiratorially::
Falon      : ::arches a brow::  Do you mock me?   ::pointed glance::
Simini  xx : No, sir... I merely think that the best should take their rightful place. Do you not agree? ::looks at him with crystalline eyes that combine eagerness with softness::
Falon      : Then how can you possibly relate leadership to individual accomplishment?  To do so is to agree with their premise.
Simini  xx : ::her own love of the duels evident::
Falon      : That there is a place at the top of a sport that can be protected by leadership rather than skill is to say that it is not a sport at all.
   Falon's clear, blue/green eyes gleam with conviction. Later, as he himself escorted me to the gates of Lodiel, he summed up the basis of his views in one sentence... "I don't dabble in politics.  I'm a duelist."


*    *    *
page 13

   Tired of climbing up your chimney and emerging covered in soot?  
   Tired of going for a romantic slide down your chimney with your sweetheart and tasting sooty lips at the bottom? (Or maybe on the way down if you're an expert.) 
    Then give me a call at 1-800-CHIMNEY.  Our operators are standing by (mainly me, and I'm not fully operational), waiting to hear your pleas for help and come rushing to the rescue.  And we're cheap!  In fact, we usually forget to collect payment...
    So be the first in your neighborhood to have a clean chimney.  That neighbor may always beat you in the yearly Xmas lawn decorations contest, but you'll be damned if his chimney's cleaner! 
Remember, 1-800-CHIMNEY.  Call now.  Or later, just call!
(Paid for by a grubby old man that just wanted to be left alone.)
(In case there's any confusion... the preceding was from everyone's favorite chimney sweep, Falire)
*    *    *
page 14

Welcome to a new feature here in the magazine... Who Are They?  dedicated to interviewing these Barons we hear so much about.  First up on the grill so to speak is GldenSword also known as Alkron.  

DOSTODAY:  So Alkron, where do you come from?
ALKRON:  All I can really say is that I am a traveller, and will always be a traveller.  I have no set home, other than RhyDin.
DT:  How long have you been in RhyDin?
A:  From my travels, I first came to RhyDin, to leave only for a month, at one point, over 2 years ago.  I have been a regular citizen ever since, and have no plans of leaving in the near future.
DT:  So who introduced you to dueling?  Where did you learn?
A:  I don't recall anyone introducing me to dueling... my love for swordplay before I entered RhyDin was enough to bring me down the stairs from the inn after just a few short months.  After dueling for a few times, I realized the dueling styles in RhyDin were different then those of which I had ever seen. Xenograg kathu-Darelir, Overlord at the time, took me into his school and helped.  I believe I spent over a year as a Commoner, occasionally rising and falling from Swordsman.
DT:  How long have you been dueling?
A:  I stepped into the Duel of Swords about a year and a half ago.  It may have been a little more, but I do remember that it was right before Xenograg took the title from Falon.
DT:  What is this I hear about your opening your school again?
A:  You are correct.  After almost a year, I've made a decision to reopen Dojo Alkron.  As a Baron, I feel it is my duty to teach those that wish to learn the art of the duel.  (See "Dojo Alkron" in Message Board: RhyDin Town Center)
DT:  What's this I read about you and Robin?  Is this RobinELee or a different Robin?
A:  Again, you are correct.  Although most do not know, Robin and I have been together for well over a year.  Just a few days ago was the one-year anniversary since the day we were to be wed.  Without going into needless detail, a few things came up --- and we were never wed.  She is now finally moving in with me.  (See "Alkron and Robin's Home" in Message Board: Dreamweaver's Lair)
DT:  Why have you always chosen to be loyal?  Even to the Madman?
A:  Although most do not know, in my original school, MadMadMax was a student of mine.  Then we were both commoners, but I still had much to teach.  I shall always consider him a friend.  In general, I tend to put my faith in the ruling party, in this case the Overlord.  My only reason for challenging Siera was because she wanted Barons to put all thought into their decision of alignment.  As said at the time of my challenge, I did not want her title.  She is, and always will be, my friend as well.
DT:  What are your hopes for the future of dueling?
A:  One hope of mine would be the making of a conference room for dueling, although that has seemed to already come true.  (My thoughts on how that will turn out are skeptical)  I hope that more Barons and Warlords decide to teach the lower-ranked duelists, making the duels what they once were.
DT:  Do you have any plans for Overlord someday?
A:  Perhaps some day... as of now I am happy to wear the ring of station.  And I have been proud to stand in the corner of so many Overlords as their dueling second.  The title of Overlord is not something I need now, perhaps some day I will yearn for it.
DT:  Do you have anything else you'd like to add?
A:  I hope that I am able to see everyone reading my words, from commoner to Overlord, in the ring some day soon.  If you wish to learn, I am at your service.  Please contact me immediately.
And thank you, Oscar, for doing such a fine job at reporting on the duels.::the editor blushes::
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page 16

<<<<------------------------------------------>>>>            
                           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 19
Welcome back to our series "So ya' wanna be a Fist-fighter"  I have with me today one of the Outback's relative new-comers and fast-risers.  Her name is Shannon Kimberly Colton and she is certainly not what this reporter expected to see in a fist-fighter.  Almost as if in contrast to the hulking figure of my last interview, Shanni is small, almost tiny.  Standing at barely 5'5" and dressed in jeans and a utility shirt she looks more prepared to be tinkering with electronic devices than doing battle with the kind of bruisers that the Duel of Fists seems to attract.  Curling up in the chair opposite me, a grin playing on her features, this reporter gets the impression that she's in on a secret that those who don't duel aren't in on.
DosToday:  Shannon is it?  I hope it's ok if I call you that.  I wanted to start off by asking what originally brought you to the Duel of Fists?  You seem kind of young to be duelling.  How did you get into it?
ShanniCltn:  ::smile:: You're only as young as you feel.  Anyway, I got into it mostly out of a need for exercise and I like competition.  Plus it's great stress relief..::grin::
DT:  But you seem...so ...:: I wanted to say small and frail but hesitated ::
SC:  Little?  :: she finished for me with that impish smile ::
DT:  :: I chuckled and smiled :: yeah...
SC:  :: shrug :: Looks can be deceiving :: her eyes almost twinkled with mischief :: Ask anyone who's gone head to head with me.
DT:  How have you done so far?  What rank are you?
SC: Um..I think I've done pretty good.  Right now I'm 16-6-1, which makes me a Sapphire.  I lost my first 4, but have been getting better ever since.
DT:  How do you like the Duel of Fists so far?
SC: *Great* fun.  I enjoy DoF a lot, and really do look forward to it opening each week.
DT:  Do you duel anywhere else?  Or just in the Outback?
SC: Nope....Magic's too weird for me..and carving someone up with a meat cleaver don't run in my mind as any kind of fun. ::wry grin::
DT:  Any fights that were particularly memorable for you?
SC: Tying Lord Harvest early on had to be a big one for me...I mean, I was this newcomer who hadn't beaten anyone of note, and I forced a tie with one of the big names.  It was quite a thrill.  Beating Ryle, who's as close to a teacher as I have, was really something. Other than that, it would have to be the wins that earned me Ruby and then Sapphire rank. Especially the Sapphire win..'cause it was the first shutout I ever posted.
DT:  Anyone in particular that you'd like to fight?
SC:  Anyone that's willing...in practice, I'd prefer to avoid the best of the best till I get my ranking stable...then I'll take on anyone.  I don't care who.  But I do wanna prove myself against the best...that's a major goal for me.
DT:  Ok, let's talk about duelling.  Do you have a style or technique that you were trained in?  Or use when duelling?
SC:  My style?  Hmm....I try to focus on out-thinking my opponent... guess what they're gonna do next, and do something  completely different. ::grin:: I view it as a mental game, to see who can out guess who.  Then punch their lights out. ::wild grin::
DT:  Any formal training?
SC: None before I came here, but Ryleigh's a close friend of mine, and she's given me hints and tips on how to improve...I learned a lot from her, I think.
DT:  How well has it worked?
SC:  Ok I guess, but that all goes out the window if they tick me off. ::flashing a suspiciously sweet grin ::  'Cause then I just try to beat the tar outta them. :: chuckling ::  My temper is still my worst enemy. 
DT:  :: chuckle ::
DT:  I understand Duel of Fists has undergone some rule changes.  Care to comment on them?
SC: It's made the game harder in my opinion.  But that's good.  It makes you work harder to be better.  If you're good, you adapt.
DT:  Has it affected your movement up the ranks at all?
SC: I muffed my first chance to jump to Sapphire.  I'd like to say that the changes were a major part of it, but the fact of the matter was that Nick (OfTyme) beat me.  Saying it was just the matrix would be insulting. But..::leaning forward:: I'm not sure he would have, before.
DT:  How has it affected your duelling style?  Or is it too soon to ask that?
SC: ::leans back, grins:: I still hit just as hard.
DT:  How do you think the changes have been received?
SC:  Most of the comments I heard were positive...it threw folks off for a bit, but like I said..if you're good, you adapt. 
DT:  As we wrap up, any hints for other new-comers?
SC:  Yeah...don't let a bad start discourage you.  I lost my first 4 in a row..and seriously thought
about giving it up.  But I kept at it, and now it's paying off, 'cause I been raisin' hell since.
::wicked grin::
DT:  Well, thank you for your time Shannon.  I'll make sure to keep an eye on you in the weeks to come.  I wish you luck with your fights!  :: smiling ::
SC: Thanks..::grin:: But no thanks on the luck..I make my own. ::smile::

That's it for this week.  Be sure to wander by Shanni's folder some time "Falchion" which can be found under Stars End/RDI Sector.  Next time we hope to interview another of the Outback's "old-timers" and gain their thoughts on the up-coming Diamond Quest tournament.
*    *    *
page 19
Everyone needs a little fun in their life, right?  Especially after a hard night's dueling.  Well if you agree, there is a new shop opened that may interest you.  Just a few doors down from the Red Dragon Inn, is a store ready to cater to your every whim, pleasure-wise.
Ali's Pleasure Chest...  dedicated to your total enjoyment of life.  Come in today for a tour hosted by proprietor Jareth SongBlade.
((Ali's Pleasure Chest can be found on the message boards in the folder "Dreamweavers Lair" under "Ali's Pleasure Chest"))
*    *    *
page 20

News of the Basement:
FEADUR Defeats RC in 5 Rounds!
In the long awaited "test" match between the presumed dishonorable Baron Feadur and FantasyRC concluded not too long ago in a rather humbling defeat of the older dueler.  A five round duel of consummate skill by the Dark Elf quieted most of the talk of worthiness and honor.
The Rounds:
Feadur         Fantasy RC
low cut        sidestep
thrust              high cut
high cut       sidestep
fancy circular parry     low cut
fancy sidestep      fancy circular parry
whoa.

Sometime later MadMadMax made a bid for a Baron seat by challenging the obvious opponent in this talk of honor and nonsense, Feadur.  This duel lasted a bit longer but in the end, the Dark Elf was again successful.
The Rounds:
Feadur         MadMadMax
fancy lateral parry high cut
fancy circular parry     fancy sidestep
slash               thrust
high cut       fancy circular parry
fancy circular parry     stop hit
thrust              fancy circular parry
fancy lateral parry high cut
slash               fancy circular parry
low cut        high cut
Look at that successful slash!  What a duel.
Other news:

Aspendale, citing his displeasure with the Baron Feadur and the way in which the RC challenge was handled has stepped down from his position as Baron.  When asked for his thoughts on the matter, he...
As a result of his retirement, a tournament of Warlords is being held tonight Thursday, May 25th to replace the vacant seat.  Results of that Tournament as well as a full report will be in next time's issue.
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.