Reprints of DoS/Dueling Today
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::on the cover this time, a very bright shot of the final point in the Overlord match, Percival
thrusting under Siera Red's high cut, the red blood blooming into her shirt. Over this reads
DUELING TODAY::
DUELING TODAY Volume 3, Issue 1
Contents:
Letters to the Editor page 2
Advert for Taslhoff's Souvenir Stand page 3
Editorial page 4
Advert for Caithness Holidays page 5
Simini's Swords page 6
Advert for Falire's Chimney Service 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
Plain and Fancies page 12
Advert for the Bootery page 14
Roving Reporter page 15
Advert for the White Rose page 18
Photo Spread page 19
Advert for The Pleasure Chest page 21
Duel of Swords Report page 22
Advert for Garden Day Care page 24
Advert for the Lathadsocia Challenge page 25
Advert for Larana's Love Loft page 26
Staff: Oscar Madison, Editor in chief (DoSEditor)
Broadway Dan, DoM correspondent (BrdwayDan)
Hedda Hat, Columnist (HeddaHat)
Simini, Columnist (Simini x)
Dr. Stupid, Advice Columnist (DrStupidMD)
Jake Thrash, DoF correspondent (JakeThrash)
Devon Goral, Roving Reporter (DevonGoral)
Shanni Colton, DoF Photographer (ShanniCltn)
* * *
page 2
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear DoS Today staff:
I would like to make two clarifications regarding DoS Today Vol. 2, No. 15.
In your report on the Siera Red/Falire overlord match, the question is raised, "Where was Marx
with the programs when we needed him?!" Marx was calling the duels.
In this issue's photospread, a shot of Marx handing a T-shirt to a winning duelist is captioned
"The Beaver's always ready to make a fast buck." In fact, Marx gives those shirts away.
Regards,
Rimbaud
~This editor regrets that a feeble attempt at humor was so poorly received. That intercession duel
truly did require programs. The editor was also aware that Marx was calling duels. I apologize
for trying to make light of it.~ Ed.
*******************
Dear Editor,
When I read the most recent edition of DoS Today, I was stunned by the absolute vituperation
expressed by HeddaHat toward my fiance, Michael Jones. First of all, I would like to address his
attack on Marx. The beaver was once my dearest friend in Rhy Din, but since my courtship and
subsequent engagement with the aforesaid Jones, he has turned his back on me, publicly slandered
me, and deliberately left messes at the bar because I have the shift after his. What's more, I am
currently having to get a restraining order put on this "aquatic mammal" for harassing myself and
my fiance. Marx is more than a trifle annoying at times. He has deliberately baited myself and
Michael on a number of occasions, and while we are both normally able to control ourselves,
occasionally he steps too far.
As to the other incident, I cannot believe what I read. Michael saved the life of everyone in the
bar when a bomb dressed like Sir Ghost entered. He bravely took the bomb outside, where it
went off, at great personal injury to him. Thankfully, he is immortal, and there was no lasting
damage... but the truth of the matter is that he saved many lives that day--including, by the
way, that annoying beaver's. There was no shooting. Rayn and Ree weren't even involved,
except as threatened bar patrons. They certainly didn't bother to make certain that Jones was well
after the bomb went off, except to see him put on an ambulance.
In the future, unbiased reporting would be nice, even from one with Hedda Hat's reputation, if
she's going to be published in a magazine with the circulation and reputation of DoS Today. I
hope this periodical can retain its credibility, but it is doubtful with such sensationalist gossip as
has been printed.
Sincerely,
Rissa Voni.
* * *
page 3
For the latest in Dueling memorabilia stop by Taslhoff's Dueling Souvenir Stand.
Some of the goods to be had all featuring the duelist of your choice:
Percival Overlord memorabilia of every description
Pennants
Buttons and pins
Refrigerator magnets
Salt and Pepper shakers
Postcards
Potholders
Pogs and Slammers!
Inflatable egos
PrinceFyre Magic Decoder Rings (so you can understand his logic)
Aspendale Mouth Soap
Ecore008 Boomerangs (they die, retire, and still keep coming back)
Karnafexx sap gloves (because he's such a sap)
Bishop police badges (cop out?)
Bobbinghead Dolls
ArchMage scythes featuring Lord Harvest
And Shanni "Wicked Kick" Colton genuine faux Diamonds to celebrate her rank
The Stand can be found on the message boards in the folder "Dreamweavers Lair" under
"Souvenir Stand"
* * *
page 4
EDITORIAL
Competition on the forefront
Well sports fans, seems like the idea of having a magazine around this dump is such a good one,
that some of my employees decided to go and make one of their own. You all may be wondering
what effect this will have on this magazine, or if we plan to cancel our publication in the face of an
official RDI-sponsored newsletter. (And if you don't know what this is all about, go to keyword
RDI >>> News and Information >>> New IC Newsletter.)
Let me begin by saying that the magazine has a new name. During a staff meeting recently,
Hedda mentioned that we should change the name to better reflect the changing aspect of the
magazine. We all heartily agreed and so introduce Dueling Today. I think you will all agree we're
not just about swords anymore, even though that remains my area of knowledge.
Secondly, there are plans currently under negotiation that could make the magazine more visible
to the community of RhyDin. As these develop, I will keep you appraised.
Thirdly, while I must admit to not being entirely thrilled with competition of the nature of an
official versus unofficial magazine, I want to stress that RDI Devon is not "the enemy". He has
been working with me to implement the aforementioned plans, and has stressed very vehemently
that his magazine is not here to push my magazine out of publication. I understand that a few folk
have been writing him some rather unpleasant letters on my behalf, and while it flatters me that
there are folk out there that do care and who are on my side, it worries me that Devon is catching
some unwarranted flack. Please don't harass him. I would be most grateful.
Finally, I just want to assure you all that thick or thin, this magazine started out with a staff of
one, and if we lose a few folk to pressure from their jobs, we will survive. They might get
compensated for their work, but this magazine has always been a labor of love to me and I have
no intention of going away.
And that's not just my opinion. ~Oscar
* * *
page 5
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Use your Caithness Express(TM) card and receive 1% cash back on purchases made on your
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This advertisement paid for by the Kingdom of New Caithness Tourism Council, in conjunction
with the First Bank of Keepside, providers of the Caithness Express(TM) card.
* * *
page 6
SIMINI'S SWORDS
The following is the latest in an ongoing series of articles featuring various duelers and their
weapons. If you would like to see the story of your blade (broomstick, dead animal, dagger,
submachine gun, etc) appear here, please get in touch with Simini x via email...
IAN RYAN MACKENZIE
It has been a while since a new duelist has entered the basement and dazzled us with skill...
achieving ranks and scores at a rate that for most takes weeks, even months to attain. Yet Ian
Ryan MacKenzie, King of Caithness, did just that. In the short time he has been dueling, he has
impressed us by achieving the rank of warlord in one weekend, then Baron shortly thereafter. On
the afternoon he was to defend his Baron's title, I met with Ian in the castle garden for a quick
chat about Icebreaker, his pretty blue blade.
Ian R MacK: I've 'ad it for about 400 years... ::light glinting off the translucent bluish plasteel::
In all tha' time, I've ne'er 'ad to hone th' edge, nor 'as it broken.
Simini xx: How did you acquire it?
Ian R MacK: ::shrugs:: I found it... about th' same time m' brother Donal foun' 'is axe.
Icebreaker: ~He didn't find me. I was left for him, as Flamestrike was left for Donal.~
Simini xx: ::crystal blue eyes widen to the size of plates::
Ian R MacK: Somethin' wrong?
Simini xx: ::looks at Ian::
Ian R MacK: ::arching a brow::
Simini xx: ::looks at the blade::
Ian R MacK: Oh, y' wan' to look at it? ::offering it::
Simini xx: ::keeps her eyes fixed on the blade, whispers to Ian, leaning over slightly:: <w>
Did you hear that?
Icebreaker: ~He can't hear me, Simini.~
Ian R MacK: 'ear what?
Simini xx: ::making no move to accept the sword just yet... eyes widen further, almost
impossibly... wonders if she should try to speak back::
Icebreaker: ~And unless you want him to think you're insane, you'd best just act normal...~
Simini xx: Uh... ::stalling. Slowly:: Yeah, sure... uh...
Icebreaker: ~He's rather odd about people trying to tell him I speak.~
Simini xx: Can I hold it? ::wants to interview the sword, now::
Ian R MacK: Sure. Please. ::smiling and handing over the blade::
Simini xx: ::pretending to examine the blade closely... all the while her mind is racing, trying
to figure out how to interview the sword:: ~ Who left you for him? ~ ::smiles at Ian
appreciatively, and hands it back::
Ian R MacK: ::watching her, astonished that she's so intently interested in the blade::
Simini xx: *Very* beautiful.
Icebreaker: ~His father, before he returned to T'Kwan.~
Simini xx: ::tries to incorporate the information she is getting, so Ian doesn't wonder how she
will know certain things:: So you don't know the history of Icebreaker before you found it?
Ian R MacK: Ah... nae. No clue. All I know is it's a remarkable blade. It seems to be able to
store electrical energy...
Simini xx: Is that what gives it its color?
Ian R MacK: Well, righ' now, it's nae 'oldin' a charge a' 'tall. I thought it best to nae allow it ta
retain a charge whilst duelin'.
Simini xx: I see... how do you control whether or not it is holding a charge? ::noting the
rubberish hilt::
Ian R MacK: Ahh... well, were it charged now, I could 'ave it fire a burst of electricity at a
target... or into free air.
Simini xx: ::impressed::
Icebreaker: ~Actually, I sense his desire to do so, and take care of it, but he's got no clue.~
Simini xx: ::smiles:: Then I think you're right... it's probably best *not* to have it charged in
the basement. ::stifles a giggle in response to Ian's "cluelessness". Smiles sweetly, hoping he will
take the giggle as a response to her own statement::
Ian R MacK: ::smiles, thinking maybe she's visualising him torching someone's butt::
Simini xx: ::prompts him further:: Do you know what it is made of?
Ian R MacK: Annaway... when it's charged, it sings somewhat... rather pleasant. Ah... appears
to me to be glass, but I'd suspect it's an odd crystalline alloy o' some sort.
Simini xx: ::nods:: Of course, there's no way it could be 100% glass. ::grins::
Ian R MacK: ::chuckles:: Nae, not an' retain its edge an' stay unbroken.
Icebreaker: ~It's glasteel, Simi... fairly rare.~
Simini xx: What is the most spectacular thing you have done with this blade, Ian?
Simini xx: ::nods almost imperceptibly in response to the sword, and writes down the word::
Ian R MacK: Honestly... beatin' Xenograg was prolly th' most *spectacular.*
Simini xx: ::looks up from her notes with a genuine smile:: Really?
Ian R MacK: ::chuckles:: Aye...
Simini xx: That's very humble of you to say so, Ian.
Ian R MacK: Most o' m' real battles 'ave been decided in rather mundane manners.
Simini xx: ::nods, a bit more solemn:: As they should be. Why did you name it Icebreaker?
Ian R MacK: Oh, it's on the hilt, there... in runes. ::pointing then chuckles:: It went well with
my old title... Knight of th' Snows.
Simini xx: ::smiles in agreement:: Yeah, that does have a nice ring to it. How attached are
you to that sword, Ian?
Icebreaker: ~Stupid name. And that's NOT what the runes say.~
Ian R MacK: ::placid look:: If it's nae at m' side... I feel naked.
Simini xx: ::nearly chokes while trying to stifle another giggle::
Ian R MacK: Something... wrong, Simi?
Simini xx: ~ What do they say, really? ~ ::coughs:: ::coughcough:: Uh... no... I think I just
inhaled some... grass dust, or something. ::lamely::
Ian R MacK: Ah.
Simini xx: But I know what ::cough:: you mean about feeling naked. ::smiles::
Icebreaker: ~They really say something to the effect of Soulbond. Doesn't matter.~
Simini xx: Without your sword, I mean...
Icebreaker: ~I serve him, and that's all that counts.~ ::seeming smile in her voice::
Simini xx: ::blushes slightly::
Ian R MacK: Of course. ::chuckles::
Simini xx: ::really likes this sword!:: But... Ian... have you ever thought about what would
happen to it if something were to happen to you... well, you're immortal and all, but...
theoretically?
Ian R MacK: Ah... well, I suppose I'd give it o'er to my son Donal, aye?
Simini xx: ::nods and smiles:: That is proper, I think.
Icebreaker: <q> ~I'd die.~
Simini xx: ::suddenly looks really sad::
Icebreaker: ~My blade would remain as it is, but my soul... would diminish.~
Ian R MacK: Simi? ::tilting his head as he looks at her:: Air ye a'right?
Simini xx: ::snaps out of it, and smiles at Ian:: Aye... just don't like to think of you dyin',
that's all. ::glances up at the sun and sighs:: Ian... I must go. ::regretfully::
Ian R MacK: ::frowns:: Well, y' 'ardly asked me annathin'.
Simini xx: ::grins knowingly:: You don't seem to know too much. ::amused::
Ian R MacK: ::blinks::
Simini xx: You found it, and duel with it. ::simply::
Ian R MacK: It's a blade. What's there to know? ::laughing::
Simini xx: ::laughs, *very* amused. Glances at the sword almost conspiratorially::
Ian R MacK: ::reaches for the blade and starts to resheath it::
Icebreaker: ~Good evening, Si--~ ::silenced as Ian slips her fully into the scabbard::
* * *
page 8
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 9
Report from the Outback:
Welcome the our latest newcomers: Spirit Chi, Merilsa, MarlenaK, DTeribery, Odif 13,
AlisaTryn, MAP PIKE, Jere Kane, RaynDF, Juarin, RIP Lord, KulikJ, Mephisto14, Derius17,
FIintJansn, DragoonAct. We certainly hope they all had fun and that they will all join us again. :)
Congratulations to Haplo35 who made Jade, to MorganCrow and Murphy2014 who made
Ruby, and to AragornKoG who made Sapphire! It's nice to see people moving up in the ranks.
Wish all of them continued success and hope to see them all in the Emerald rank soon!
Worthy of note as well this week, is the dreaded return of Karnafexx to the Duel of Fists. We
had only seen him once over in the Outback, but after spouting off his mouth he was challenged to
wander over and put his money where his mouth was. The fight took a few moments to get
started as the ref ruled his gloves as a weapon, but after Billy Ray agreed to take them off things
got underway. Alas for our Diamond, Billy Ray was having a good night and after a very well
fought match on both sides, Billy Ray managed to defeat ShanniCltn 5-3 in 8 rounds. Billy Ray
was inclined to wander off at the point but he wandered back, claiming he had forgotten his bag.
We are inclined to think maybe he was having fun, but suspect he'd deny it. Taking up the
gauntlet, Percival joined Billy Ray in the ring and in yet another close match Percy managed to
take a little wind out of Billy Ray beating him 5-4 in 8 rounds.
Billy Ray has threatened to wander in again, and I am sure that Shanni will be looking for a
rematch. For that matter, if anyone is looking for a good fight...they are certainly welcome to
wander in and take a few punches at Billy Ray themselves. :)
Finally, and Jake's favorite news to report. Things have been set in motion and we are looking
at Percy to join us as an RDI soon and we are looking forward to having another RDI available to
call duels in the Outback. Hope that all of you will wander in to welcome Percy when he does
finally begin and that ya' will all do lots of duelling so we can get him broken in just right. ;)
**************** 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! (Well,
no holds except those belonging to Percival) Wander in! Find out why 9 out of 10 duelers say it's
the best thing since the invention of ale! 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 Round Table memorabilia. Holy grails and shrubbery. Spittoons a
specialty.
The shop is located conveniently next door to the Red Dragon Inn and the dueling basement.
@ @ @ @
* * *
page 12
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 the dog days of August and the long, dusty, hot hours are reflected as through a looking glass
here in Rhydin. Some overheated relationships have cooled precipitously. Chief in this category
is the separation (divorce soon?) of Alyx and Ian MacKenzie. He confessed to at least three
dalliances with others in the recent past (Najiba and the late Kalaya Madison to name two). I
guess that admission was too much for a woman of Alyx's refinement and she responded to the
insult by moving out of the castle. She was seen one night subsequently drinking heavily in Red
Star.
A less flamboyant chilling has occurred between Morgan Crow and LdyArane and their
engagement is off. Better to start slowly and build, I suppose, than to burn out quickly.
Another victim of the summer doldrums is the relationship of Marx and Cymbelyne, the beaver
and the baby-doll. One Friday night, while Marx tended bar in Star's End, Cym broke it to him
that their relationship was ended. The next day, however, Cym admitted that her decision was
affected by people who made fun of a girl and a water mammal as a couple. She stated, "He's a
beaver," as if she'd just noticed that fact. Some fool counseled her that "nature and wisdom are
always the same." Sure, as if wisdom isn't hard-won often by controlling one's nature. Cym went
on to avow that breaking up with Marx was "...the hardest thing I ever did" and that "...in the
long run, it will be better for Marxie." Marx was unavailable for comment.
The final chill of the month was the deal of Kalaya Madison...much loved habituee of the arenas.
She was murdered in Red Star Station by Shauntelle, herself killed immediately after. The motive
is unknown. Among the mourners are her husband Bally and her lover, Chaz Orion. A few
weeks before her death, Madi ended the affair with Chaz and returned to Bally to give him
another chance. I gather it was the old, sad story...husband is busy - traveling maybe - and the
wife is lonely. As Chaz himself said, "Kalaya Madison was a devoted wife who never stopped
loving her husband." And he added, in a low tone, "I loved her." Even this veteran observer of
the celebrity love wars was touched by his deep feelings for the late lady. However, I had to
wonder, given what I learned about Madi's affair with Ian Mackenzie (see above) how much love
had blinded Chaz to the truth. 'Tis a sad thing, all in all.
In a final, lighter note, let's all lift glasses to salute young Jeimelle who turned the table...err, the
chair...on that reprobate Moraxian. Look closely at his chest the next time you run into him and
you'll see the word "Idjut" (sic) tattooed onto his skin, directly above the figure of a red snake.
Finally...the good were victorious and, as Jeimelle herself would say in her inimitable style, "The
bad was got."
Well, dear readers. Here's hoping for more uplifting gossip next time around! 'Til then, see you
in the halls of dueldom.
* * *
page 14
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 15
THE ROVING REPORTER
Roving reporter Devon Goral recently spoke with the Emperor Baphelocutis about the new
Lathadoscia Challenge. The sparring matches have now been joined by a new sport combining
the elements of fists, magic and swords. It should be mentioned that Jo Kickingit is now in charge
of the challenge.
DevonGoral : ::draws a small notepad and pen out of his longcoat:: First of all, can I have the
correct spelling of your name?
Empr Baph: Baphelocutis est Lathadoscia ::spells it out letter by letter::
DG: Thank you. ::smiling::
DG: Is there something I can call you for short?
EB: Baphe
DG: ::nods:: Okay.
EB: ::sips his dwarven spirits::
DG: To start, could you give me a general overview of what the Lathadoscia Challenge is?
EB: The game, or the night of sparring?
DG: Let's start with the night, we can talk about the game later.
EB: ::nods::
DG: The broader event, please.
EB: The LC...as I fondly call the Lathadoscia Challenge, was started by myself back in mid
March. As a sparring practice night for duelers. Initially with only DoS being called, and soon
after DoM and DoF. The point of it was to create an environment for veterans and newcomers to
practice and interrelate to each other.
DG: You recruited from interested veterans to call these duels?
EB: ::nods::
DG: How was the initial response?
EB: MorganCrow was the first, and as been loyal ever since. Then I added a few more like Yas,
Ian, Mike, and now Galar with guest callers, including actual RDIs. At first it soared with
interest. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday were always sparring in the basement unofficially.
The LC was only on Tuesdays
DG: This was before the new arena, correct?
EB: ::nods:: We started in the Great Hall
DG: How has it grown since the middle of March?
EB: Then with the new Arena to promote it, we moved there. As I said interest soared at first,
then grew low in early summer, then has soared again.
DG: How many people would you guess duel in LC? Regularly?
EB: We average about 25 to 35 duels a night with about 40 to 60 people who actively duel. As
well as the people who come to watch and hang out with their friend who duel.
DG: Do you keep any records?
EB: ::nods::Aye we track results and maintain our own standings. Separately in DoS, DoM, and
DoF.
DG: Your standings are completely separate from the official DoS/M/F?
EB: Correct...we have nothing to do with official forum results, standings, or ranks. People start
as ground zero again in the LC.
DG: Why would you say most of your regulars like LC?
EB: No pressure.
DG: Pressure?
EB: They can do the same as the do on offical dueling nights, without regard to their record.
DG: For the practice.
EB: Plus it gives a chance for the regulars of three sports to intermingle and get to know one
another--like a Warlord hanging out with a Mage, or an Emerald.
DG: Then why the separate ranks? If I were a Warlord in DoS, wouldn't it be most beneficial for
me to practice as a warlord? Or just make everyone the same rank.
EB: Good point, but the purpose was to bring people back to the basics. To help them work on
what got them to a higher rank to begin with. ::shrugs:: As well for veterans it can be stale having
nothing to work for. But I doubt seriously anyone in the LC is actually trying to make rank there.
DG: ::chuckles:: Not all of us 'veterans' have 150 WoL.
EB: ::chuckles:: Aye..
DG: Some of us are lucky to have 15. ::grins::
EB: ::chuckles a bit more:: Some of the LC are higher rank then Forum official. ::smiles:: Some of
us are even lucky to have 1 WoL.
DG: Do you also have all the more complicated rules, such as the right to challenges, Barons,
Overlords, etcetera?
EB: :::Shakes head:: Not in the regular LC..but in the game I do.
DG: Um, sorry, can you say that again? I don't follow.
EB: I use different rank names, and the rank progression for WoL is tougher in the LC.
DG: Do you post the LC Standings regularly?
EB: But for the practice spars part of the LC there is no supreme dueler ranked. Weekly.
DG: While I'm thinking of it, would you mention the path to your message board?
EB: In the LC game itself...their are ranks and such and rights of Challenges. I have two I use.
For the results and standings of practice DoS, DoF, and DoM go this path... Keyword RDI
Message Center category Rhydin Town Center, folder Dracoern Empire Embassy. First folder,
and posts are titles LC#?? Standings or results. For the rules and standings for the new LC game
follow this path Keyword RDI Message Center category Dragon Tales, folder Lathadoscia
Challenge.
DG: ::nods:: Thanks. Okay, you've been mentioning this new LC Game, why don't you tell me a
bit about that.
EB: ::nods with a smile:: Very well... Well I myself am a being with diverse talents, skills, and
abilities that I learned or are natural to me. And I have met more and more like that each day I
am in Rhydin. With the different sports of DoS, DoF, and DoM, I noticed a lot of the same
dueler's were in all three sports. Or some were in two... and those sports have grown I would like
to believe with the LC bringing people together. So I know enough people have a interest in
more then one form or way to do sport combat. So I thought with my experiences I could create
a sport that combined methods of combat. Well as I was saying... I see a lot of combatants in the
world today who can wield a blade, pack a punch, and do a little magic. Why not create a arena
to sharpen those skills, eh?
DG: Why not indeed.
EB: So I did.
DG: Has it been tested yet?
EB: Would you like to know more of the specifics of the structure? It started its BETA test
period tonight as a matter of fact. I think the 4th or 5th match ever is being called right now as
we speak.
DG: And how did it go?
EB: Within half an hour of the LC being open tonight people wanted to try it, and it was more
crowded then usual.
DG: ::glances out the window at the duelers::
EB: ::nods:: Well since I just got the matrix to the callers, a bit slow in calling but moving along
well. ::looks over to watch for a second::
DG: Any bugs still to work out?
EB: ::nods::Unfortunately I would say so. But the type of bugs that game play will work out.
DG: But what is your initial impression?
EB: ::smiles like a little kid:: I am biased of course... But when Morgan thrusted and Glacius
MagicMissled him and they both hit... That was a neat effect.
DG: ::grins:: So you basically took all the DoS/F/M moves, stuck them in one big matrix, and did
the crossovers?
EB: Yes and no. I took 7 DoS moves. I made up my own Magic type moves, some are similar to
DoM moves yes. But the premise for magic in the LC is psionic powers, rather then saying out
spells. And some of the LC hand to hand moves are similar yes, but slightly different. Similar to
DoF that is. Duelers start out with 15 basic moves. And as they go up in rank get a new move
for a total of 20. For the very advanced levels there are a choice of 4 breath weapons. My rank
progression is tougher then any of the others too. First rank is 3 WoL. And for each new rank
you have to win ONE more then you did for the last rank rather then increments of 5 and such.
DG: 3, 7, 15?
EB: So if you needed to win 3 for first rank, you need to win 4 more WoL for the next.
3,7,12,18,25,33. Sums of 3,4,5,6,7 and 8.
DG: Oh, okay, gotcha.
EB: With a Challenge system for the highest rank and the Highlords.
DG: Who's currently got the highest rank?
EB: No one since we just started tonight.
DG: Oh, uh, yeah. ::chuckles:: If any of our readers would like to learn more about LC, or any
of the other duels, can they mail you?
EB: Of course, I'd like to keep an Open Door policy for interest, suggestions, or ideas, even
criticisms.
DG: And I believe you keep a regular mailing list for updates and other information, is that
correct?
EB: I email all the current duelers within the forum in all the sports, and official staff. Promotion
is the key to spark interest.
DG: Where would you like to see the entire operation in three/six/nine/twelve months?
Respectively.
EB: Three months I would like to see all the bugs worked out with a set game. That can run
smoothly and has no glitches or quirks. Between 3 to 6 months I'd love to see it made into a
FFGF official sport. Nine months down the road with an established following and growing as
interest grows. And one year from now, on August 1st 1996.... I'd love to see it as one of the
leading more popular games played in the FFGF with an attendance like DoS with many days of
playing and such. But really, I'd just be happy with it becoming official, and something I could
say I was a part of.
DG: Just to re-cap, where and when can the Lathadoscia Challenge be found?
EB: Tuesday nights from 8:30 PM EDT till 1:30 AM EDT in the Keyword RDI Dueler's Arena
conference room.
DG: Any thoughts of expanding beyond that time?
EB: Once the bugs have been worked out for a final draft.... It will always be Tuesday nights
from that time... If necessary I will recruit more volunteer callers, and if even more necessary,
add Monday or Wednesday as well.
DG: Do you have anything to say in conclusion?
EB: If it gets that busy, I have a feeling it might be an official game by then though..:D Yes...
Everyone who calls for me volunteers their time at no compensation from FFGF or AOL. And
for that... I am most grateful and offer a lot of appreciation to MorganCrow, Yas, Ian, Mike, and
Galar. Especially Ian as he is there every week and late. Without them the continuity of this
venture would not be. So with the interest and support I have received I have high hopes it will
be a success. If the game fails, the LC practice spars will go on.
DG: I wish you luck, sir. Thank you very much, you've been an excellent interviewee.
EB: ::nods:: Thanks for the interest as well.
* * *
page 18
<<<<--------------------------------------------->>>>
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
PHOTO SPREAD
Photo: <<A clear shot of Wren Thorn thrusting into the sweeping blade of Arlingond, RDI
Devon's face apparent in the background.>>
Caption: Wren Thorn meets a timely parry by Arlingond.
Picture: <<ShanniCltn and Ryleigh both swing left, in mirroring Fancy Dodges>>
Caption: How about that RDI Dance studio, eh? (SC)
Photo: <<RLupton's blade blurs over LadyLarana's head as she stretches forward into a thrust.>>
Caption: RLupton cuts air as Larana thrusts in for a quick point.
Picture: <<Kyttn, reaching out to Flip Harliquin, goes for a tumble as he Legsweeps>>
Caption: Kyttn expects an air attack, but Harli takes the low road this time. (SC)
Photo: <<A clear shot of Maloria's blade stopped in motion as she parries a high cut from
Telimekta. RDI Najiba sits in the background, her large eyes deep and mysterious.>>
Caption: Maloria shows her consummate skill as she parries Telimekta's high cut.
Picture: <<More mirror from the ladies, as they try to punch each other silly with powerful
Jabs>>
Caption: The champ, Shannon, pulls out another win as both connect with Jabs. (SC)
Photo: <<shot looking up from below as Vagrunt's blade swings low and hits under Dracoern's
lateral parry>>
Caption: 50/50/90. That's gotta hurt.
Picture: <<Big JakeThrash surprises Ryleigh with a Legsweep, under her Flip>>
Caption: Who says Orcs aren't flexible? (SC)
Photo: <<A photo of Blood Angel's blade driving Blade Elven's sword into the sawdust with a
circular parry.>>
Caption: A timely parry saves Angel from BladeElven's thrust.
Picture: <<ShanniCltn dodges to the side, narrowly avoiding JimmyThHnd's Jab>>
Caption: She may like using those Jabs, but Shanni has a different perspective on them when it's
the other guy... (SC)
Photo: <<sharp photo of Merentha dropping into a low parry while Blue dances to the side>>
Caption: Position advantages cannot be under-stressed.
Picture: <<JakeThrash's Fancy Armblock gives Ryleigh a "lift" as she tries to Uppercut>>
Caption: Jake's fond of tossing folks about when they try to love tap him... (SC)
Photo: <<DOSMentor thrusts out sharply in a clear photo of him and ShakaPhat>>
Caption: Ouch.
Picture: <<JimmyThHnd fires off a Jab, which ShanniCltn uses a Flip to counter>>
Caption: Seeing the punch on it's way, Shanni counters Jimmy's momentum for a hit and the win!
(SC)
* * *
page 21
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 22
WHAT'S NEW?
There have been challenges and challenges in the upper ranks these days (which makes this
editor beg for some more tangible editorial assistance besides the cubs who are all too afraid of
Siera Red and mooning over the serving lads to do me much good). All the increased interest in
dueling has of course increased the ranks of Warlord as well. Those new to the rank are,
DevonGoral, MaraEvelev, Shade 9, Sir Galar, DUKELETO1, Kinfloyd, and OnyxSweet. Gone
are the days when it took folks some time to make it up the ranks so that we could actually get to
know them and recognize their faces before they joined the other Warlords. But that's another
pitfall of this swell of dueling. There are huge crowds and it is hard to get to know all who are
engaged in it. Congratulations to one and all!
Siera Red lost the title of Overlord recently to Percival of the Round Table. Percival's reasons
for challenging Red have been reported to be purely personal, and from what this reporter has
been able to dig up from listening at keyholes and crawling around the back alleys, this seems to
be the case. We have lost a great Overlord to this personal "whatever" and that does seem to be a
shame. Very few of the recent Overlords in the spate of constant challenge from others have been
able to hold onto the seat as long or as well as Siera did. Also she had the misfortune of being
harangued constantly by people who had previously named themselves as friends. Shameful
actions by a lot of duelers who would call themselves honorable. But that is ever the way of most
of the duelers in our sport. A lot of talk, little real honor among them.
At any rate, Percival's reasons are his own, and if we are to do the "honorable" thing it seems
that we should accept that. Hail the Overlord.
Also in the spate of challenges was Ian MacKenzie's challenge to Xenograg which resulted in a
match not soon forgotten around these parts. It went 17 long rounds and Ian emerged victorious
over the notable Darelir. Ian was promptly challenged by JSV Ramirez and beaten.
Alkron (GldenSword) was challenged by GnimishRW and beaten, and Feadur was challenged by
Daegarth, and defended successfully.
Also last night was the tournament to fill the three vacant Baron seats. Emerging from a field of
28 duelers were new barons DirkRandom, PhantomDOS, IanRMacK (regaining a Baron ring
lost), and Devon Goral who won the option of challenging the Overlord. Devon has expressed a
desire to "think about it" and one presumes he awaits the results of Feadur's challenge on Percival
to decide.
* * *
page 24
DAY CARE AVAILABLE
Tired of the kidlets hanging off of you while you're trying to duel? Looking for some daycare
even in the middle of the night? Or perhaps you'd just like a quiet night with your significant
other?
The Garden Daycare Center is now open. Children of all ages welcome. We are a full-service
daycare center, with personnel on the grounds 24 hours every day. For more information, please
contact Aliyanna Stormbringer, proprietor, at The Garden.
* * *
page 25
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
@ !!!! H A C K !!!! !!!! Z A P !!!! !!!! P O W !!!! @
@ These are the sounds in the monolith rings of the Lathadoscia @
@ Challenge!! Ever see an ogre uppercutting an elven chap trying to @
@ magicmissle in his defense? Or that dashing knight slashing down @
@ on a thief trying to control his mind with a psionic crush? Well @
@ now in the RDI environment you can!! Its the new matrix based @
@ sport combining weapon, hand to hand, and psionic spell moves @
@ together for a multi skilled event known as the Lathadoscia @
@ Challenge brought to you by the Emperor Baphelocutis est @
@ Lathadoscia and House Lathadoscia. Now mages and fighters can @
@ fight along with each other in one sport!! @
@ Information on the new game for rules, moves, ranks, and @
@ dynamics can be found at Keyword RDI Message Center category @
@ Dragon Tales in the folder Lathadoscia Challenge, or email the @
@ gaming official standings keeper, screenname: Kickingit. Every @
@ Tuesday night in the Keyword RDI conference room RDI Dueler's @
@ Arena from 8:30 PM EDT to 1:30 AM EDT find the Lathadoscia @
@ Challenge!! @
@ Please note that DoS, DoM, and DoF practice sparring unofficial @
@ calls will still be called on Tuesdays as well, with results and @
@ individuals standings kept as always in the Dracoern Empire @
@ Embassy folder separate from the actual game. Come out for new @
@ fun and interaction with your comrades!! @
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
* * *
page 26
~ Larana's Love Loft ~
Looking for a romantic present for your spouse, harem, slave or lover? Seeking out that special
gift that keeps on giving?
Larana's Love Loft offers a wide variety of adult oriented products, services and entertainment for
your purchasing pleasure. Friendly, helpful discreet service, and a broad spectrum of items that
suit every nature and erotic taste.
An on premise massage parlor, cafe bar, and vast literature and visual section have something to
offer everyone.
Larana's Love Loft, the shoppe that keeps you coming back for more.
~ Larana's Love Loft ~
690 RhyDin Rd.
RhyDin City, RhyDin
Larana MacRoy
Proprietor
** Look for our new summer "Duel of Romance," catalogue, featuring your favorite thrusters and
parriers, and the outstanding art of Amaltea! Available soon..!
* * *
page 27
LATEBREAKING NEWS
Disgruntled dueler Merilsa, after losing to Phantom DOS in the Baron tournament last evening,
was seen later that night counting up her list of peer wins muttering something about rudeness and
respect. Insiders say that she plans to challenge the Phantom to a rematch for his remark "Next!"
when one would have expected a "Well dueled" or "Thank you". Remember you heard it here
first.
Dueling Today is looking for a few good people. Do you love dueling? Would you like to write
about it and see your name in print? Writers and photographers needed for DoS and DoM
coverage. Apply to screen name DoSEditor.
Well that's all for this time, sports fans... until next time
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.
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