DUEL 2 NEWSLETTER

Date   : 02/22/2005    Duedate: 03/21/2005

SCOMSS SWAMP ARENA

DM-47    TURN-221

This Weeks Top Honors

THE DUELMASTER IS

RAINBOW
LAND OF OZ (217)
(47-4553) [20-9-0,125]

Chartered Recognition Leader   Unchartered Recognition Leader

RAINBOW                        MINOR BLUE
LAND OF OZ (217)               FEATHERS FLYIN' (585)
(47-4553) [20-9-0,125]         (47-5326) [7-2-1,58]

Popularity Leader              This Weeks Favorite

LEPPADA                        GANGSTA CREEP
TREBORS (232)                  VINCERE AUT MORI (588)
(47-2257) [13-20-0,59]         (47-5391) [3-1-0,28]

THE CURRENT TOP TEAM

LAND OF OZ (217)

          TEAMS ON THE MOVE            TOP CAREER HONORS
Team Name                  Point Gain  Chartered Team
1. FEATHERS FLYIN' (585)       66
2. LEADERS (593)               49      MYSTIC ORC FEAST (416)
3. THE JESUITS (524)           38      Unchartered Team
4. VINCERE AUT MORI (588)      35
5. ROYAL FLUSH (48)            33      LEADERS (593)

The Top Teams

Career Win-Loss Record           W   L  K    %  Win-Loss Record Last 3 Turns    W  L K
 1/ 0*LEADERS (593)              4   1  0 80.0   1/ 1 LAND OF OZ (217)         13  2 0
 2/ 1*TOMBSTONE (555)           10   5  1 66.7   2/ 2 BLACK STORM (171)        10  4 0
 3/ 6*DOK SIK KILLAS (595)       6   3  2 66.7   3/ 3*TOMBSTONE (555)          10  5 1
 4/ 2 MYSTIC ORC FEAST (416)   254 154 20 62.3   4/ 4*FEATHERS FLYIN' (585)    10  5 1
 5/ 8*FEATHERS FLYIN' (585)     25  16  4 61.0   5/ 7 SECOND BANANAS (573)      9  6 0
 6/ 4 LAND OF OZ (217)         430 281 13 60.5   6/11*NATURAL B. KILLERS (584)  8  6 3
 7- 5 ALL-STAR NANA'S (457)     38  25  4 60.3   7/ 5 MANEGERIAL MAYHEM (574)   8  7 1
 8/ 3 OLD HABITS (566)          25  18  1 58.1   8/13 COFFEE RULES! (505)       8  7 0
 9/ 9 MANEGERIAL MAYHEM (574)   31  24  2 56.4   9/10 THE JESUITS (524)         7  7 0
10/10 ROYAL FLUSH (48)         577 458 30 55.7  10/ 9*VINCERE AUT MORI (588)    7  7 0
11/11 COFFEE RULES! (505)      124 100  5 55.4  11/22*DOK SIK KILLAS (595)      6  3 2
12/12 LIFE'S LESSONS (562)      89  79  5 53.0  12/ 6 MYSTIC ORC FEAST (416)    6  5 0
13/22*VINCERE AUT MORI (588)    10   9  0 52.6  13/12 KNIGHTS TEMPLAR (568)     6  9 0
14-14 THE BEAR'S PAW (150)     302 272 30 52.6  14/20*ADULT SWIM (589)          6  9 0
15-15*RAT SALAD (577)           22  20  0 52.4  15/23*ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ (594)   5  5 2
16/ 0*THE RIPPER CREW (489)     13  12  0 52.0  16/29 HOME GUARD (402)          5  5 0
17/13*NATURAL B. KILLERS (584)  19  18  3 51.4  17-16*RAT SALAD (577)           5  5 0
18/16 NEMESIS (32)             135 129 13 51.1  18/ 8 SKELETON KEY (493)        5  6 0

Career Win-Loss Record           W   L  K    %  Win-Loss Record Last 3 Turns    W  L K
19-17 DARQUE FORCES (396)       84  81  5 50.9  19/ 0*LEADERS (593)             4  1 0
20/21 SECOND BANANAS (573)      32  32  2 50.0  20/24 ROYAL FLUSH (48)          4  3 0
21/ 7*ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ (594)    5   5  2 50.0  21/14 NEMESIS (32)              4 11 0
22/18 SKELETON KEY (493)        78  79  3 49.7  22/18 OLD HABITS (566)          3  5 0
23/20 BLACK STORM (171)         64  65  8 49.6  23-21 THE BEAR'S PAW (150)      3  7 0
24/23 DARK PINNACLE (598)       14  16  2 46.7  24/17*SOULFORGE (587)           3 11 0
25/24 THE JESUITS (524)         64  80 12 44.4  25/30 DARK PINNACLE (598)       2  2 0
26-25*DRACONIC REALM (519)      10  13  0 43.5  26-19 DARQUE FORCES (396)       2  3 0
27/29 HOME GUARD (402)          30  40  2 42.9  27-15 ALL-STAR NANA'S (457)     2  3 0
28/26 TREBORS (232)             80 108  8 42.6  28/34 TREBORS (232)             2  4 0
29-27 KELLY'S HEROES (202)      27  37  5 42.2  29/33*GOTHIC MINISTRY (592)     2  5 0
30-28 I HATE THEM (597)         27  37  1 42.2  30/ 0*THE DREAMING (591)        2  8 0
31/30*ADULT SWIM (589)           6   9  0 40.0  31-27 I HATE THEM (597)         1  0 0
32/32 KNIGHTS TEMPLAR (568)     27  41  2 39.7  32-31*FALLEN (590)              1  2 0
33/36*GOTHIC MINISTRY (592)      3   6  0 33.3  33/ 0*THE RIPPER CREW (489)     1  4 0
34-35*FALLEN (590)               1   2  0 33.3  34/ 0*DARK SIDE (602)           1  4 0
35/34*SOULFORGE (587)            6  13  2 31.6  35/35 LIFE'S LESSONS (562)      1  7 0
36/ 0*THE DREAMING (591)         2   8  0 20.0  36-37 KELLY'S HEROES (202)      0  2 0
37/ 0*DARK SIDE (602)            1   4  0 20.0  37-38*DRACONIC REALM (519)      0  2 0

    '*'   Unchartered team                       '-'  Team did not fight this turn
   (###)  Avoid teams by their Team Id          ##/## This turn's/Last turn's rank

                                    TEAM SPOTLIGHT

     No real updates except the declarations/verifications.  For those who have
questions about entry fees received...you'll notice I've announced that with the
verification.

Here's what I've gotten so far:

*Vendetta Cartel* -- Kat, cpt
Kat/Bear's Paw                           declared/verified
Hammer/All Swamp Hammerz                 declared/verified
Fizban Managerial Mayhem                 not declared/verified
Master Darque/Darque Forces              not declared/verified
Maximillian /Natural B. Killers          not declared/verified
Street Legal/My Day (?)                  not declared/verified

*T.A.T.I.O.A.H.C.* -- Mr. Coffee, cpt.
Mr. Coffee/Coffee Rules!                 declared/verified

*Vendett@United* -- CFH, cpt.
CFH/ Rat Salad/Baby                      declared/verified
Wasby the Great/Soulforge/Cullonegro     declared/verified
Toker/Vincere Aut Mori/Gangsta Creep     declared/verified
Goat/The Jesuits/Wyrd                    declared/verified
Dok Sik/Dok Sik Killas                   not declared/verified
Voodoo/?                                 not declared/verified
Abraxis/?                                not declared/verified
Skullagrim/Skeleton Key                  declared/verified

*Fellowship of the SCOMS* -- Oz, cpt.
Oz/Land of Oz                            declared/verified
Crip/Royal Flush                         not declared/verified
Slugbait/Mystic Orc Feast                not declared/verified
Mannequinn/Old Habits                    not declared/verified
Soultaker/Second Bananas                 not declared/verified

*Illuminati* -- Talon Darkhart, cpt.
Talon Darkhart/Adult Swim                declared/verified
Baphomet/Knights Templar                 declared/verified
Sir Chester/Draconic Realm               declared/verified
P-Diddy/The Dreaming                     declared/verified
Azrael/The Fallen                        declared/verified
Azerath/?                                not declared/verified
Turtle/?                                 not declared/verified
Assurnasirbanipal/?                      not declared/verified

** Changes in declarations may be made until Turn 224 is reported.   After that,
you're stuck with it.

** Hey Fizban, do you think we could persuade you to do the North Fork Tribune?

Baphomet, TCB

      * }%|[-----+O+-----]|%{ * }%|[-----+O+-----]|%{ * }%|[-----+O+-----]|%{ *

PREQUEL:
     Hammer lay bundled up in the throes of a fever dream brought on by the illness
that persistently refused to run its course in what should have been a short order of
time.
     Who knows what thoughts and conclusions are drawn from such experiences that
most suffer silently through while their public image is mocked and disrespected.
     In Hammer's case it was the harsh cruel reality that his experimental
maintenance warriors type of management these past years had placed the Veteran
Manager among the ranks of those scorned wannabee managers who prove to be in that
grouping Far Below Average to Inept as managerial prowess is publicly perceived.
     Remaining active in Alastari in such a capacity while a card carrying member of
the Vendetta Cartel had brought scorn and ridicule not only to Hammer, but towards
his friends and brothers in the Vendetta Cartel as well.
     Even Sensei Jan had at one time or another viewed Hammer as an embarrassment to
the alliance for his choice of some of the managers who had been members of the
Vendetta Cartel under the wings of his Captaincy these past two or three years.
     To add insult to injury, the highly respected Kat had become offended by the
conduct of Hammer openly declaring War as a Vendetta Cartel Captain of the Tarantula
Tribe in the Kitty of Kool's Home Arena versus the upstart Vendetta Clones who Kat
did not even warrant the need to pay attention to in spite of their self important
spoutings in the P-ads.
     In Kat's eyes Hammer had overstepped his bounds as a Vendetta Cartel Captain by
openly declaring War upon the upstarts without bringing it to a vote or discussion
with the other members of the Vendetta Cartel.
     Hammer had NOT even discussed it with the VC God Father Master Darque.
     Such conduct was viewed as an action of disrespect by Hammer towards his fellow
alliance mates.
     And rightly so!
     Hammer had no argument with that perception.
     What was the Remedy in the fevered Mind of Hammer?
     Immediate Resignation from the Ranks of the Vendetta Cartel for his actions!
     After All, it was Perceived by Dark Nightie Stoker that Hammer had made his
Boastful Public Declaration of War in the North Fork Personal Ads because Hammer was
at best a Joxxur (sp?) type of manager among the managerial Xenas of Alastari and
that Hammer would merely be content to Hide behind His Far Superior Alliance Mates!
     It was NOT the First Mistake that Stoker had made in forming a Public Opinion
regarding Hammer....  Nor Would It Be Stoker's Last Mistake Regarding Hammer!!!!

                                  SWAMP SCRIBBLING
                      North Fork/SCOMSS Swamp Arena/DM 47/T-221
                               by Hammer the WordSmith

         "Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down
first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh
against him with twenty thousand?" -- Luke 14:31

     The beauty and blessing of competing in a slow arena, especially North
Fork/SCOMSS Swamp Arena, is in part how much the intrigue, conflict and competition
between managers and stables can develop from month to month between battle cycles.
     Case In Point:
     As you wade through my collection of P-ads this cycle you will find an
interesting thread of developments stemming from my recent declaration of War and
resignation from the Vendetta Cartel as a reactionary result!
     I do NOT want to spoil any surprises here, so I will just inform one and all who
have taken the time to read this Hammer Spotlight that it has been in the planning
stages all along for Hammer to establish a More Permanent Stable here in DM 47 along
with an appropriate Monthly Spotlight Feature to help add to the Arena Atmosphere for
which North Fork has become famous over the years!
     Over the years there have been a parade of Hammer Experimental Stables that have
entered DM 47 for a period of time and then exited from this arena, only to be
replaced in time by another outlandish experimental stable until the experiments ran
their course of amusement according to Hammer's time, money and interest!
     Seasoned Veterans such as Oz/The Consortium/Wayne may well remember the debut of
SOLAR FROGS right here in DM 47 before Maccabaeus the Hammer became known as Hammer
and the Host of Many Famous Contests in Niytyole Island DM 33 and more recently The
Madness in DM 28/Co-Hosted by my good friend Maximillian when he asked me to help
revive Morya Arena; plus the Delarq Death Fest in DM 59 which was Hosted by Hammer in
an Effort to Keep DM 59 Illis Arena from Dying Out as a Favor to Kellogg who had
competed in DM 33 until he was forced by real life circumstances to limit his gaming
to his Illis Home Arena which had Died Out in recent months last year!
     That Original SOLAR FROGS stable featured SOLAR FROG 1, SOLAR FROG 2, SOLAR FROG
3, SOLAR FROG 4 and SOLAR FROG 5 for those of you who were around to pound on those
experiments and help Hammer learn some valuable lessons, before adding SOLAR FROG 6
and SOLAR FROG 7 to the roster when required!
     Hammer may be considered by many to be just another newcomer to the Swamp!
     However, for those who remember, there is a rich history of Hammer stables that
have been Historically active in North Fork which have Always made DM 47 a Home in
the Heart of Hammer; especially during the cycles of Hammer stable absences in North
Fork Arena over the years!
     Friends of Hammer both Active or Retired/Inactive have requested Hammer to send
a stable to DM 47 and become a Permanently Active Veteran Manager in our Beloved
Swamp; because they have enjoyed the Historical Hammer Spotlights and P-ads in North
Fork/SCOMSS Swamp Arena and other arenas across Alastari where they have crossed
blades and matched wits with Hammer on the sands and in the Spotlights and P-ads!
     Hammer is Now Here as Requested in the Glorious Past!
     Better Late Than Never!
     P.S.  Ah the Days of the Fizban/Hammer Wars both on the DM 47 Sands and in the
P-ads!  Those were the Days!

      * }%|[-----+O+-----]|%{ * }%|[-----+O+-----]|%{ * }%|[-----+O+-----]|%{ *

                        ---===FREE BLADES REGIONAL NEWS===---

                                     Duelmasters
                                     -----------
 DM   9 ZUKAL (turn 509): CAT TASTROPHIE of ARENA FELINES (Garfield, mgr.)
 DM  12 RIZTAB (turn 509): CAT TAGIOUS of ARENA FELINES (Garfield, mgr.)
 DM  15 MALCORN (turn 503): CITATION of TRIPLE CROWN (Sultan, mgr.)
 DM  16 WILLAF (turn 506): FELIX of ARENA FELINES (Garfield, mgr.)
 DM  17 ALJAFIR (turn 504): PIP THE TROLL of HEROESANDFOUNDONES (The Judge, mgr.)
 DM  19 ZUWAYZA (turn 503): SIT of VALHALLA (Odin, mgr.)
 DM  28 MORYA (turn 251): LAVA RUNNER of PRIMAL FURY (Sensei Jan, mgr.)
 DM  29 LAPUR (turn 495): ENOSHIMA of BLACK SAMURAI (Doc Miracle, mgr.)
 DM  31 CHIMLEVTAL (turn 249): KIRKEN TUORNIN of THE NIGHTHAWKS (Firehawk, mgr.)
 DM  32 ARVAT (turn 491): TAD DEVILLE of DEVIL ADVOCATES (The Dark One, mgr.)
 DM  33 NIATOLI ISLAND (turn 489): TATHARLI of THE SEWING CIRCLE (Jorja, mgr.)
 DM  35 MURSKA (turn 482): BARRISTER of BLITZKRIEG (Polarius, mgr.)
 DM  43 VEASTIAN (turn 446): ELLEN SUE GOTLANDER of GIRLS X3 (Non, mgr.)
 DM  45 STORMCROWE (turn 226): STORM SERPENT of SUPERIOR FORCES (Manager, mgr.)
 DM  47 SCOMSS SWAMP(turn 220): COURAGE of LAND OF OZ (Oz the Successful, mgr.)
 DM  50 SNOWBOUND (turn 207): NO-PAIN-4U of EXTREMISTS (Eclipse, mgr.)
 DM  56 ROCANIS (turn 370): HEDGEHOG of REDHORSE (Mila, mgr.)
 DM  61 JURINE (turn 349): COOL CAT of ARENA FELINES (Garfield, mgr.)
 DM  73 ERINIKA (turn 156): YANKEE DOODLE of WORLDWIDE GORE (Crip, mgr.)
ADM 103 FREE BLADES (turn 396): PARANOIA of DSM4 from ZUKAL (The Sandman, mgr.)

                                      Top Teams
                                      ---------
 DM   9 ZUKAL (turn 509): BLUE MOON (Jorja, mgr.)
 DM  12 RIZTAB (turn 509): DREAMERS (Sleepy, mgr.)
 DM  15 MALCORN (turn 503): GREENWARDENS (Jorja, mgr.)
 DM  16 WILLAF (turn 506): GOLDEN GLADIATORS (Midas, mgr.)
 DM  17 ALJAFIR (turn 504): HEROESANDFOUNDONES (The Judge, mgr.)
 DM  19 ZUWAYZA (turn 503): THE MAGNIFICENT MAGS (Jorja, mgr.)
 DM  28 MORYA (turn 251): NORTHERN BADLANDS (Maximillian, mgr.)
 DM  29 LAPUR (turn 495): EQUESTORS (Spartacus, mgr.)
 DM  31 CHIMLEVTAL (turn 249): THE STORMGUARDS (The Icelord, mgr.)
 DM  32 ARVAT (turn 491): SARATOGA GLORY (The Trainer, mgr.)
 DM  33 NIATOLI ISLAND (turn 489): THE SEWING CIRCLE (Jorja, mgr.)
 DM  35 MURSKA (turn 482): BLITZKRIEG (Polarius, mgr.)
 DM  43 VEASTIAN (turn 446): GIRLS X3 (Non, mgr.)
 DM  45 STORMCROWE (turn 226): DARQUE FORCES (Master Darque, mgr.)
 DM  47 SCOMSS SWAMP(turn 220): LAND OF OZ (Oz the Successful, mgr.)
 DM  50 SNOWBOUND (turn 207): SNOW CALL HAMMERZ (Hammer, mgr.)
 DM  56 ROCANIS (turn 370): REDHORSE (Mila, mgr.)
 DM  61 JURINE (turn 349): ARENA FELINES (Garfield, mgr.)
 DM  73 ERINIKA (turn 156): DUDS (Amy A. Airhead, mgr.)
ADM 103 FREE BLADES (turn 396): LEGION OF DUMB (Carnage, mgr.)

                                   Recent Graduates
                                  -----------------
 DM  12 RIZTAB (turn 508): AGLIBOL of DARKMOON (Bobby Bigfoot, mgr.)
                           JUDGE PARKER of THE LAWMEN (Marshal D, mgr.)
 DM  16 WILLAF (turn 505): PEACH NUTT of PUNNY AMINALS (Jorja, mgr.)
 DM  17 ALJAFIR (turn 504): MCARTHUR of HEROESANDFOUNDONES (The Judge, mgr.)
 DM  28 MORYA (turn 250): ALARIC of THE WARLORDS II (Fizban, mgr.)
                          RAY D AYTOR of OTTO'S MECHANICS (Crip, mgr.)
 DM  31 CHIMLEVTAL (turn 249): DROKK of WHAMMO & THUDDA 4 U! (Micky, mgr.)
 DM  32 ARVAT (turn 490): TRADEMARK of SARATOGA GLORY (The Trainer, mgr.)
 DM  35 MURSKA (turn 481): RED FERN of VOLUNTEER FLOWERS (Inferno, mgr.)
 DM  43 VEASTIAN (turn 445): DISMAY of HELL'S PAWNS (Harbinger, mgr.)
 DM  47 SCOMSS SWAMP(turn 220): COURAGE of LAND OF OZ (Oz the Successful, mgr.)
 DM  50 SNOWBOUND (turn 206): VANWAFEA of DARK SIDHE (Daehir, mgr.)
 DM  61 JURINE (turn 349): DRACO EL TANIN of BLADE AND BLOOD (Noachian, mgr.)

                                 DUELMASTER'S COLUMN
                             Notes from the arena champ.

     Amazingly, I am here again!  My third Duelmaster title.  I have far exceeded my
personal goal.  Jabberwock, you are a great competitor, and I must admit that I
considered myself an underdog in our fight.  Luck and the gods must have blessed me.
Your turn will come, my friend.  But life moves on, and this will be my final
declaration as Duelmaster as I have finally been selected to join The Lady at The
Isle.  Retirement is in my near future.
     As is The Consortium custom, I will tell you about the "inner me".  I am a
slightly bonused slasher, at 13 (+1) - 9 - 8 - 15 - 17 - 10 - 13 with the 'bump"
giving me good damage.  I am+4 initiative, and +2 decisive.  All else was mode
including normal endurance.  I learned poorly at a 1.44 skill/fight rate.  I am 17-
10-1 in the arena and a lousy 5-9 in tournaments.  I proudly have three DM titles,
and looking at my numbers it is hard to believe I have achieved them.  My admaster
init goes with my three experts in attack, decise, and riposte.  (Unless I earned an
attack in the Jabberwock fight which will give me an adex.)  I was 2-12-1 with the
HA, 1-10-1 with the GA, 8-42-3 with the SC, and 67-194-18 with the LO.  I predict
that I will be high/very low with longsword and riposte favored.
     Enough about me.  Good luck to the next Duelmaster.  May you uphold the valor
and honor of SCOMSS Swamp and North Fork.
     Bidding you all farewell,
     Courage

                                      SPY REPORT

     Busy, busy, busy, lots of things happening in SCOMSS SWAMP this turn, and let's 
start with a look at some of the teams.  I understand that The Swinging Aardvark is 
buying the drinks for DOK SIK KILLAS tonight, to honor their rise to 11th after this 
turns 3-1-1.  Hmmm.  Now, what did these guys have for breakfast this morning?  HOME 
GUARD has turned a 3-2-0 into 16th place from 29th.  Give me the recipe!  The ROYAL 
FLUSH guild has had a 4-1-0 turn and deserves to be watched in the future.  You never 
know where this kind of thing can lead.  On their very first turn, LEADERS had a 
4-1-0, and with this kind of luck or skill, should do well.  Welcome to SCOMSS SWAMP. 
FIGHTING TREE has lost to WYRD, falling 16 points, while helping make LAND OF OZ a 
3-2-0 turn.  The attempts to dethrone the Duelmaster have failed, and COURAGE remains 
SCOMSS SWAMP's top warrior for another turn.  By the way, was that our Duelmaster 
that I saw last night, cramped under the table at The Swinging Aardvark?   
     I tell you, a green quarterstaff lasts longer than a seasoned sapling.  A basher 
friend of mine assures me this is true.  I also notice that the THE JESUITS stable 
was the most avoided team this turn.  Come on SCOMSS SWAMP, what are you afraid of?  
And avoiding THE JESUITS more than any other team we find KNIGHTS TEMPLAR.  SCOMSS 
SWAMP, are we going to accept, or respect this sort of thing?  The most challenged 
warrior this turn was NATURAL B. KILLERS 2's warrior LITTLE BIG MAN.  More fighters 
challenged him than challenged the Duelmaster!  In a brave attempt, MORGAN from 
TOMBSTONE challenged up 20 points to fight SISTER MARY SARAH from the OLD HABITS 
stable.  MORGAN perhaps got his just desserts, seeing as he subdued SISTER MARY SARAH 
and ended up with 56 recognition points.   
     The Dark Arena is for those who cannot win, not who cannot lose with grace.  
Dignity in life or death is the warrior's creed.  Kudos go out to B.B. CROSS this 
turn, for revenging FEATHERS FLYIN''s bloodfeud against NATURAL B. KILLERS 2's 
warrior WHITE SETTLER.  Well done.  Congratulations go out to SOULFORGE, with SOUL 
SEEKER revenging a bloodfeud against ETIENNE DUPLAIX of KNIGHTS TEMPLAR.  The 
Swinging Aardvark declares a free round for APPIUS and all of VINCERE AUT MORI, for 
having revenged TOMBSTONE's RINGO for killing one of their comrades.  Kudos go out to 
JENNA this turn, for revenging LIFE'S LESSONS' bloodfeud against DOK SIK KILLAS' 
warrior CYANIDE.  Well done.  Congratulations go out to THE DREAMING, with DEAD ANGLE 
revenging a bloodfeud against SWAMP CLAW HAMMER of ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ.  Is it really 
true that SCOMSS SWAMP has more dishwashers per capita that fighters?  Just thought 
I'd ask...   
     Thought for the day, a new sword shines bright, but the notched sword sings the 
sweetest.  Always good to rest in SCOMSS SWAMP, but never good to wear out my 
welcome.  Look for me in future turns.  Until the sun next rises and my pen sets to 
paper-- Alarond the Scribe  

DUELMASTER                     W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
 RAINBOW 4553                 20   9  0   125       LAND OF OZ (217)

CHALLENGER CHAMPIONS           W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
 LEVIATHAN OF LARD 5113       15   5  2   118       MYSTIC ORC FEAST (416)
 HOURGLASS 5127               16   2  0   115       LAND OF OZ (217)
-NULN 5467                    10   2  1   115       I HATE THEM (597)
-GREGOLA 5101                 21  13  0   111       LIFE'S LESSONS (562)
 DEEP FRIED LARD 4975         19   9  0   108       MYSTIC ORC FEAST (416)

CHALLENGER CHAMPIONS           W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
-PAULA BONES 4414             18  13  1   101       SKELETON KEY (493)
-THE GREEK GUY 5478           11   4  0   100       I HATE THEM (597)
-OSLOBEN BENBOBEN 4561        14  13  1    97       SKELETON KEY (493)
-SHELDON 4111                 10   3  2    92       ALL-STAR NANA'S (457)
 SPAWING OF SPEWN 5197        10   2  0    92       MANEGERIAL MAYHEM (574)
 ART PENDRAGON 5151            8   8  0    92       KNIGHTS TEMPLAR (568)

CHAMPIONS                      W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
 JABBERWOCK 1277              13  14  3    90       NEMESIS (32)
 WYRD 5167                     9   3  0    87       THE JESUITS (524)
-KALYPSO 3603                 19  14  0    86       DARQUE FORCES (396)
 GALDR 5171                    7   4  1    79       THE JESUITS (524)
 MARAJUANA MAN 3411            9   4  2    71       BLACK STORM (171)
 JENNA 5099                   12   9  3    68       LIFE'S LESSONS (562)

CHALLENGER ADEPTS              W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
 FIGHTING TREE 5235            8   5  0    66       LAND OF OZ (217)
 ACE METRIC 3554               5   4  0    66       ROYAL FLUSH (48)
-BABY 5224                     7   2  0    62       RAT SALAD (577)
 KRAMER 5191                   7   5  0    61       SECOND BANANAS (573)
 LEPPADA 2257                 13  20  0    59       TREBORS (232)
 HUMBUG 5199                   9   5  1    58       LAND OF OZ (217)
 MINOR BLUE 5326               7   2  1    58       FEATHERS FLYIN' (585)
-AMELA BUNDERSON 5339          6   2  0    58       SKELETON KEY (493)
-SARA F. 5349                  5   2  0    58       SKELETON KEY (493)
 STING 2724                   12   9  0    57       NEMESIS (32)
-ANJE 4109                     9   4  0    57       ALL-STAR NANA'S (457)

ADEPTS                         W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
 AHURA MAZDA 5152              5   8  1    56       KNIGHTS TEMPLAR (568)
 MORGAN 5055                   3   0  0    56       TOMBSTONE (555)
 YURI KARLOMOV 4215           10   2  0    53       HOME GUARD (402)
 KOZYTA 2640                   9  11  2    53       TREBORS (232)
 SISTER MARY SARAH 5137        9   3  0    52       OLD HABITS (566)
-GREEDY 5223                   6   2  0    52       RAT SALAD (577)
 SWEET N LOW 5306              6   4  0    51       COFFEE RULES! (505)
 DRASTARDY DAKE 5198           6   6  1    50       MANEGERIAL MAYHEM (574)
 TAKALEREIHN II 4260           5   6  1    49       HOME GUARD (402)
 SIR GALAHAD 5148              8   7  0    44       KNIGHTS TEMPLAR (568)
 GAFF 5347                     5   0  0    44       FEATHERS FLYIN' (585)
-DONAVAN 4112                  8   5  0    42       ALL-STAR NANA'S (457)
 DASTER MARQUE 5196            6   6  0    42       MANEGERIAL MAYHEM (574)
-BEAR NEKKID 5126              9   8  0    40       THE BEAR'S PAW (150)
 TEN C-0 METER 5141            7   7  0    40       ROYAL FLUSH (48)
 MAHARA 2656                   9  11  1    39       TREBORS (232)
-FAT-BOY 5221                  6   2  0    39       RAT SALAD (577)
 DEVOUT CHRISTIAN 5321         5   3  1    38       NATURAL B. KILLERS 2 (584)
 LITTLE BIG MAN 5393           3   0  1    38       NATURAL B. KILLERS 2 (584)
 ZOMBIE KNIGHT 3564            9   2  0    37       BLACK STORM (171)
-PAUL BEARER 5187              6   7  2    37       THE BEAR'S PAW (150)
-CURSESHOCK 5234               6   4  0    36       DARQUE FORCES (396)

CHALLENGER INITIATES           W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
 B.B. CROSS 5323               6   3  1    33       FEATHERS FLYIN' (585)
 KENTSUI FURY 4382             4   1  0    33       THE RIPPER CREW (489)
-HUSTLER 1765                  3   4  3    33       KELLY'S HEROES (202)
-HALLE BEARY 5312              3   6  0    33       THE BEAR'S PAW (150)
 FREEZE DRIED 5308             7   3  0    32       COFFEE RULES! (505)
-SISTER MARY CLARENCE 5262     4   4  0    32       OLD HABITS (566)
 PAVEL MOLARI II 3665          6   8  1    31       HOME GUARD (402)
 BLOOD RAYNE 5489              5   4  0    31       DARK PINNACLE (598)
 STEAL SHANK 5487              4   2  0    30       DARK PINNACLE (598)
 PAVEL MOLARI III 4539         3   5  0    30       HOME GUARD (402)

CHALLENGER INITIATES           W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
-KATIE 5337                    4   3  0    29       ALL-STAR NANA'S (457)
-ARAUTHATOR 4660               3   1  0    29       DRACONIC REALM (519)
-COWBOY 1545                   6   8  0    28       KELLY'S HEROES (202)
-FRED BEAR 5348                4   3  0    28       THE BEAR'S PAW (150)
 GANGSTA CREEP 5391            3   1  0    28       VINCERE AUT MORI (588)
 LEET STREEGLE 5368            3   1  0    28       MANEGERIAL MAYHEM (574)
 APPIUS 5392                   3   1  0    28       VINCERE AUT MORI (588)
 JACK & JILL 5310              5   3  0    27       ROYAL FLUSH (48)
 CRISTER MOFFEE 5289           6   5  1    26       MANEGERIAL MAYHEM (574)
-ANTI 5457                     3   3  0    26       I HATE THEM (597)
 VASH THE STAMPEDE 5396        2   1  0    25       ADULT SWIM (589)
 CLINTONLIKESBUSH 5318         5   3  0    24       NATURAL B. KILLERS 2 (584)
 DOC 5059                      3   0  0    24       TOMBSTONE (555)

INITIATES                      W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
 GET THE POINT? 5097           3   8  0    23       LIFE'S LESSONS (562)
 EVICSERATOR 5358              4   1  0    21       BLACK STORM (171)
 SOUL SEEKER 5387              2   2  1    21       SOULFORGE (587)
-SISTER SLEDGE 5341            2   1  0    21       OLD HABITS (566)
 MSK 5507                      1   0  1    21       FEATHERS FLYIN' (585)
 BORIS MARKOV 4540             3   5  0    20       HOME GUARD (402)
 HANTA 5443                    2   0  0    20       DOK SIK KILLAS (595)
 SWAMP LILY HAMMER 5441        2   0  0    20       ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ (594)
-MULLIGAN 1718                 5   4  0    19       KELLY'S HEROES (202)
-SCOTT 5299                    5   4  0    19       ALL-STAR NANA'S (457)
 LADY ARCANE 4381              3   2  0    19       THE RIPPER CREW (489)
 WOODY 5412                    3   0  0    19       SECOND BANANAS (573)
 JACK MCFARLAND 5481           2   0  0    19       SECOND BANANAS (573)
 DON KING 5374                 1   2  0    19       ROYAL FLUSH (48)
 WHITE SETTLER 5322            3   5  1    18       NATURAL B. KILLERS 2 (584)
-MR. REE 5406                  1   0  0    17       DARQUE FORCES (396)
 DEAD ANGLE 5418               1   1  0    17       THE DREAMING (591)
 MATTIE 5058                   1   2  0    17       TOMBSTONE (555)
-VALAMARADACE 4695             2   2  0    16       DRACONIC REALM (519)
 CYANIDE 5444                  1   1  1    16       DOK SIK KILLAS (595)
 JIM JONES 5430                1   0  0    16       LEADERS (593)
 MELON MUSH 5357               4   3  0    15       MYSTIC ORC FEAST (416)
 ROBUST BREW 5400              2   1  0    15       COFFEE RULES! (505)
 FAMILY GUY 5398               1   2  0    15       ADULT SWIM (589)
 CAFE AU LAIT 5344             3   5  0    14       COFFEE RULES! (505)
 BENDER 5395                   3   0  0    14       ADULT SWIM (589)
 DARK WARLOCK 5422             2   1  0    14       GOTHIC MINISTRY (592)
 CLOCKWORK ORANGE 5415         2   0  0    14       BLACK STORM (171)
 TITANIA 2958                  2   8  0    14       NEMESIS (32)
 SWAMP TRAP HAMMER 5442        1   1  1    14       ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ (594)
-PICUS 5390                    1   2  0    14       VINCERE AUT MORI (588)
 ANTON LEVAY 5429              1   0  0    14       LEADERS (593)
 BLACK THUNDER 3885            3   4  0    13       BLACK STORM (171)
 BLACK BALL 5520               1   0  0    13       VINCERE AUT MORI (588)
-BABBRA 1866                   3   2  1    12       KELLY'S HEROES (202)
 KYLE 5523                     1   0  0    12       DARK SIDE (602)
-KENSAI 5267                   2   5  0    11       RAT SALAD (577)
 MIDGUARD 5410                 2   1  0    11       THE JESUITS (524)
-AXELROD GUNNER 5401           1   0  0    11       FALLEN (590)
 DAY DREAM 5417                1   1  0    11       THE DREAMING (591)
 DRAMA QUEEN 5494              1   0  0    11       ROYAL FLUSH (48)
 TSO TSUNG T'ANG 4391          3   1  0    10       THE RIPPER CREW (489)
 ANTHRAX 5446                  1   1  1    10       DOK SIK KILLAS (595)
 SON YUNG MOON 5427            1   0  0    10       LEADERS (593)
-SOULTAKER 5455                1   0  0    10       I HATE THEM (597)
-DIPTHERIA 5445                1   0  0    10       DOK SIK KILLAS (595)
 ETIENNE DUPLAIX 5377          2   2  1     9       KNIGHTS TEMPLAR (568)
 BADI AL ZAMAN 4384            2   3  0     9       THE RIPPER CREW (489)

INITIATES                      W   L  K POINTS      TEAM NAME                  
 SWAMP BURP HAMMER 5439        1   1  0     9       ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ (594)
 RINGO 5056                    2   1  1     8       TOMBSTONE (555)
 GRENDEL 5376                  2   2  0     8       NEMESIS (32)
 TRESSA 5388                   1   3  0     8       VINCERE AUT MORI (588)
 DAVID KARESH 5426             1   0  0     8       LEADERS (593)
 EBOLA (Z) 5447                1   1  0     8       DOK SIK KILLAS (595)
-CLAUGIYLIAMATAR 4694          2   1  0     7       DRACONIC REALM (519)
 IMMAZAEL 5384                 1   3  1     7       SOULFORGE (587)
 FAJR FALAK 4380               1   4  0     7       THE RIPPER CREW (489)
 SHADOW 5434                   1   1  0     6       SOULFORGE (587)
-STEEL RAIN 2180               1   3  0     6       KELLY'S HEROES (202)
-FASTDRAW 5315                 1   3  0     6       RAT SALAD (577)
 SWAMP CLAW HAMMER 5438        1   1  1     5       ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ (594)
 INCUBUS 5423                  1   2  0     5       GOTHIC MINISTRY (592)
 WYATT 5057                    1   2  0     5       TOMBSTONE (555)
-BEAR SKINRUG 5399             1   1  0     4       THE BEAR'S PAW (150)
 WILSON 5482                   1   1  0     4       SECOND BANANAS (573)
 GENESIS 5435                  1   1  0     4       SOULFORGE (587)
 HOLLE' CHERRY 5437            1   1  0     4       SKELETON KEY (493)
 CAPPUCCINO 5382               0   4  0     4       COFFEE RULES! (505)
 AMALRIC 5378                  0   4  0     4       KNIGHTS TEMPLAR (568)
 NIGHT TERROR 5420             0   2  0     2       THE DREAMING (591)
-AMAZON JANE 5414              0   2  0     2       SOULFORGE (587)
 SWAMP ROSE HAMMER 5440        0   2  0     2       ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ (594)
 BROCK SAMPSON 5416            0   2  0     2       THE DREAMING (591)
 WAR CRY HAMM 5436             0   2  0     2       THE JESUITS (524)
-SHADOW RAINS 5405             0   1  0     1       FALLEN (590)
 CHARLES MANSON 5428           0   1  0     1       LEADERS (593)
 SEALAB 2021 5504              0   1  0     1       ADULT SWIM (589)
 TUNNERS 5525                  0   1  0     1       DARK SIDE (602)
 DANK MAN KIETH 5524           0   1  0     1       DARK SIDE (602)
-ERON RIPPER 5403              0   1  0     1       FALLEN (590)
 JEREMY 5521                   0   1  0     1       DARK SIDE (602)

'-' denotes a warrior who did not fight this turn.

THE DEAD               W  L K TEAM NAME             SLAIN BY             TURN Revenge?
DRAGONBALL GEEEZ 5505  0  1 0 ADULT SWIM 589        PUTRID PATRICK 19     221 NONE    
VERITAS 5379           0  1 0 BLACK STORM 171       SOUL SEEKER 5387      218 REVENGED
BIRD 5522              0  1 0 DARK SIDE 602         ANTHRAX 5446          221         
DA47 5506              0  1 0 THE DREAMING 591      CARDIAC CRAIG 21      221 NONE    
KNIGHTMARE 5419        0  1 0 THE DREAMING 591      SWAMP CLAW HAMME 5438 220 JUST REV
JAY 5327               4  5 1 FEATHERS FLYIN' 585   THE BARTENDER 26      221 NONE    
KELSO 5324             2  4 0 FEATHERS FLYIN' 585   WHITE SETTLER 5322    219 JUST REV
STRUCK OUT 5508        0  1 0 LIFE'S LESSONS 562    MR. COFFEE 24         221 NONE    
THE FISHER KING 5104  15 18 1 LIFE'S LESSONS 562    LEVIATHAN OF LAR 5113 218         
BEWARE OF CLONES 5409  0  1 0 LIFE'S LESSONS 562    CYANIDE 5444          220 JUST REV
CORPULENT CORPSE 5250  7  5 0 MYSTIC ORC FEAST 416  DRASTARDY DAKE 5198   220         
DEADINAMINUTE 5493     0  1 0 NATURAL B. KILLER 584 MURDEROUS MARK 18     221 NONE    
GEORGE BUSH 5320       2  3 0 NATURAL B. KILLER 584 MINOR BLUE 5326       217 NOT REVE
THE KURGEN 5375        1  3 0 NEMESIS 32            SWAMP TRAP HAMME 5442 221         
SISTER MARY ELEP 5219  6  5 1 OLD HABITS 566        WURM KIN 27           221 NONE    
SKIPPY 5411            1  2 0 SECOND BANANAS 573    MSK 5507              221         
THE INFINITE 5383      1  1 0 SOULFORGE 587         LITTLE BIG MAN 5393   219         
BIG CREEPY 5385        0  1 0 SOULFORGE 587         ETIENNE DUPLAIX 5377  218 JUST REV
LAST ROACH 5386        0  2 0 SOULFORGE 587         DEVOUT CHRISTIAN 5321 219         
CASIEA 5389            1  2 0 VINCERE AUT MORI 588  RINGO 5056            220 JUST REV

                                     PERSONAL ADS

SCOMS Towers will be a team in the next Swampfest, as we struggle without our fellow
Spawn.  Come one and all to dethrone us. -- Oz The All Communicative

Fellow SCOMSers, please officially declare.  (That means you, Slugbait, Crip,
Mannequin, and Soultaker.)  Apparently it has been decided that The Great and
Wonderful Oz will again lead. -- The Great and Wonderful Oz

Dear "Host" -- While we Ozers detest those who disrespect or vilify the Host, it
would seem inappropriate for that to be a reason of disqualification.  It would seem
too controversial to make a decision based on emotions.  However, should one cheat or
not abide by the rules.... -- Oz The All Wise

It was interesting to see our fellow SCOMSSers at work in the Dark Arena as Darrell
Death, Murderous Mark, Guillotine Garth, and Cardiac Craig got their first "kills".
-- Oz The All Amused

TDH -- Crip is not at all missing his hockey.  Indeed he is immersed in it.  While it
may not be the hockey of Professional Legends, it is still the real thing. -- Oz The
All Knowing

Barnabas -- My friend, the Face was not the same without you.  But your friends in
The FONZ certainly made it THEIR Face.  Salute. -- Oz The All Friendly

Mr. Coffee -- How could you consider the OZ (read SCOMSS) government to be
oppressive?  We have far too many liberals on this team! -- Oz The Absolutely
Unoppressive
P.S.  Thanks for the arena name and management kudos, and good luck in your quest to
next name the swamp.  But watch out, for it may be your stuffing which is knocked!

Wasby The Great and Dark Knight Toker -- How kind of you to comment.  And I must
admit that I love your names. -- Oz The All Appreciative
P.S.  You are welcome in the swamp, and we are pleased to see you here.  While you
apparently have vengeance at heart, please note that many here, while serious
competitors, are friends--and that definitely includes Hammer.

Paula -- It was graduation rather than death.  I will truly miss you!  (grin) --
Courage

Oslobenboben -- Again?  Another challenge?  I guess you enjoy being on the bottom.
(wink)  Thanks for the wins, Hon. -- Hourglass

Jabberwock -- The gods were with me.  You are a great competitor.  Perhaps next time
it will be your chance? -- Courage, Duelmaster III

Art Pendragon -- Somewhere over the rainbow, way up high, was your chance to win.  I
guess I will keep those pots of gold. -- Rainbow

Sara F. -- Not only are you a looker, but you are one fun lady.  I enjoyed our
tussle.  Thanks for the challenge and making it easy for me. -- Fighting Tree

Daster Marque -- Now wasn't that embarrassing to be beaten by a humbug? -- Humbug
(Bah)

All -- Be it known that everyone seems to want a piece of Land Of Oz, as all five
fights last round were challenges from four different teams.  We are not the least
bit sorry that you all left in humility and we will gladly accept the 5-0.  (Indeed,
of the 15-0 run, 9 were challenges from other teams--an amazing anomole.  Beware the
"If Challenged".) -- All Us Land Of Ozers

Second Bananas -- Top Team On The Move with a 5-0!  Way to go, partner! -- Oz The All
Excited

All -- Be it known that SCOMS Towers is looking forward with anticipation to the next

Swampfest.  It will be very, very hard to reclaim the title against the fine
competition that is amassing.  The more the merrier.  Good luck to all. -- Oz The All
Anticipatory

Baphomet -- I would like to declare for Vendetta Cartel and I will name my champ when
we get a little closer since I don't know who will be Adepts or below at that point.
-- Fizban

Slugbait -- Oops.  You weren't supposed to die in that fight.  Just lose badly and
teach well.  This is going to hurt me a lot more than it hurts you, isn't it? --
Drastardly Dake
P.S.  Please be gentle.

Arena -- Asmo Dius, Liam The Goth, and Buddy Lee may announce for The ILLUMINATI
Confederation of Alliances Team. -- TDH, team Cap'n, TEAM ILLUMINATI, kLk God of War
P.S.  And since they said they were coming I would like to announce FLAGG and MATRIX
for team ILLUMINATI as well.
P.P.S.  Is it just me or is this team huggeeeeeee?

Sir Chester -- Nice to see ya again.  And nice that you're in Jhans again too. -- TDH
P.S.  Yea, it's Bookie.  Sssshhhhhhhhhh.  lol

Vendetta Cartel -- Condolences. -- TDH

All -- The ILLUMINATI declares Hammer eligible to declare for our team. -- TDH

Azrael and P Diddy -- Damn!  Look at all the targets!  Let me show ya around.  That's
Baphomet.  *everybody waves*  And there's Sir Chester.  *waves again*  Now over there
is Vendetta @ United and over there is The Vendetta Cartel.  Some of those guys hate
some of those people.  But some of those people like those guys.  And that person
hates everybody.  And that guy is sworn enemies with that cat but that cat's best
friend is down with the first guy.  Yea, you see why this is a slow arena?  You need
a freakin score card in here for real.  Ok, what else.  That cat is Master Darque.
He is the Vendetta 'Godfather'.  But don't kiss his ring.  He wipes with that hand.
Darque's a cool cat and I knew him 'back in the day'.  How far back?  Well, let's
just say he remembers a drunken weekend of mine that I don't in a far of land called
Hartford.  A magic land, Hartford.  Cosmo took full advantage of the 'no alcohol
poisoning magic' of the land.  You should have seen it!  Awwww.  Memories.  There was
also a man named Shadow and a 250 lb. blonde in a kiddie pool.  Again, priceless
horrific nightmare memories.  *sigh*  Maybe the good ole days weren't so good?
*shudder*  You see what I get for hanging out with a Troll named Pip?  Two cloudy
hours later and the whole weekend is blur.  And there's Street Legal.  I still owe
him for bloodfeuding me four turns in Jhans.  *shakes fist angrily*  He's an alright
guy though.  A little crazy but who isn't?  Watch this.  "Hey Street!  Who's goin'
Chicken Huntin'?!?!".  Yea, he likes that.  He ain't all bad.  That's about the
extent of who I know.  Everybody else I'm tryin' to figure out too.  So pick somebody
and start dancin' on their heads!  kLk kLk DOOOOOOM!!!! -- TDH

All -- The ILLUMINATI would like to declare TRIPWIRE eligible to declare for our team
during the turf war. -- TDH

Swamp Citizens -- It is true.  Hammer is no longer a member of the Vendetta Cartel.
-- Hammer/ Former Vendetta Cartel Captain; Former WordSmith and WeaponSmith of the
Vendetta Cartel Tarantula Tribe [the Tribe that lived by the Feud]  **** You may have
missed the All Arena Announcement or this cycle's Team Spotlight by Hammer

Baphomet -- What is your ruling?  Did you receive my Snail Mail letter?  I have
petitioned for the allowance to switch alliance affiliations because my original
declaration was based upon the original starting date of the TW4 contest.  Since that
time the TW4 start date has been moved to T-225 and I would like a ruling as to
whether or not I am allowed to declare membership in another alliance for the TW4
contest?  I have resigned from the Vendetta Cartel as of January 29, 2005 and will
NOT be competing in the TW4 as a member of the Vendetta Cartel alliance.  If you rule
that a switch is nullified then so be it.  Besides, I am not sure anyone out there
would sign on a Veteran Manager who in the past couple of years in Basic and Tourney
Play has played anywhere from Below Average to Inept as a manager on the sands of
Alastari.  I just want the ruling one way or another and if an alliance wants me
fighting on their side for the TW4 then I will be able to make the free choice.
Meanwhile, I have plenty of targets who are aiming to run me out of this Swamp [if
they have their way] in this Personal War in North Fork.  Should have let a Sleeping
Dog lay there amidst his experimental maintenance warriors! -- Hammer
P.S.  Looks like you slipped in there unnoticed, my friend, when I made my remarks
about the Misfits/Idiots.  Your Only Lunacy is Speaking Up in My Behalf Recently!

Dark Nightie Stoker -- I Hide Behind No One.  This War is Personal between Hammer and
You Vendetta Clones who have shown me nothing but Disrespect in recent months.  To
Prove the Point without a Doubt I have Resigned from the Vendetta Cartel.  Your
Opinion of Me is Less than a Joke.  Perhaps Well Founded.  Perhaps Not!  Admittedly,
My Stables across Alastari the past couple of years reflect that I am nothing more
than a Below Average to Inept Manager at Best!  Running on Maintenance 95+ percent of
the time will do that to a manager's public image.  Experimentation with Maintenance
Warriors also Distorts the True Mettle of the Manager who seems to have No Regard for
how his Stables Perform in the Public Eye.  This War is between Hammer and All You
Clones Who Publicly Disrespect My Name!  Plus Whoever Else decides to get in the way!
Hammer is NO LONGER a Member of the Vendetta Cartel.  So you can say what you want to
Publicly about Hammer hiding behind other managers who are much more of a threat than
Hammer would ever hope to be!  The Truth is that Hammer Stands Alone and Never Has
Hidden Behind Anyone Else in This or Any Other War for that matter!  My Resignation
from the Vendetta Cartel is to make that PAINFULLY PLAIN to all you Doubters out
there who pompously perceived my Personal Declaration of War versus the Various
Vendetta Clones as a Public Ploy to Embroil My Former Alliance Mates in a War.  Then
Hide Behind Them like a little kid.  That is NOT the Case Here! -- Hammer
P.S.  Should Baphomet make the ruling in My Favor to allow me to declare membership
with another alliance for TW4 do NOT make the mistake of thinking that Hammer has
sought another group of Better Managers to Hide Behind.  I placed ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ
in North Fork for the Long Haul to enjoy the contests and camaraderie that has long
been heralded trade marks of DM 47 over the years as I have placed several
Experimental Stables here over that period of time since I first began playing 8+
years ago.  Should Baphomet rule that Hammer is NOT allowed to declare with another
alliance for the TW4 then I will enjoy the time waging my Personal War with you
Clones who have Disrespected My Name these many long months.  You Reap What You Sow
and Your Harvest Time is Fast Approaching on the Horizon and especially in North
Fork!!!!

CFH -- So you finally make an appearance, My Old Friend.  You should have kept your
Dogs on a Tighter Leash.  Now that they have Barked and Whined and Disrespected My
Name for Months the Head Honcho makes his appearance and points out how Hammer has
thumbed his nose at your friendship by declaring war versus Your Clones!  Maybe YOU
should pass out some etiquette information to your New Recruits in the Future and
make sure they understand who has earned your respect and who deserves your
disrespect.  You Said Nothing and Remained Silent and now you cry Foul and try to
play upon my emotions regarding our past friendship.  You should have thought about
that before your Clones came out to play in Alastari.  Perhaps Originally Your Choice
of Alliance Name was a Tribute to what you held Near and Dear.  However, the Plain
Truth is that with Great Power Comes Greater Responsibility.  Apparently Your Vision
Failed to be Explained to the Clones who have been Disrespecting my Name!  Now You
Enter the Scene Spouting Your Threats As Well.  Well, Bring it on, Big Boy!  You Da
Man!  You Responsible for This Mess Getting Out of Hand in the First Place!  I
remember your dishing it out to the AA and you have my gratitude for that.  As
everyone can see, Niytyole Island DM 33 suffered for it in the long run.  The AA no
longer rant and rave there.  CFH is no longer there.  Hammer is probably but a shadow
of what he once was there!  But this is a New Year and a New Problem that you, CFH,
failed to get control of before it escalated to where it is now!  So you stand with
your Clones as well you should.  Bad Timing to Publicly Back Down from a Fight
Instigated by Your Clones Disrespecting Some Veteran Manager that CFH Claims to have
Formerly Respected before Hammer was Pushed to Openly Declare War as Your Clones
Snipped and Sniped their way in the P-ads to make an Important Name for Themselves by
Disrespecting Someone You Claim was Your Friend!  So since you have so Ceremoniously
Declared that to Declare War on Your Clones is to Declare War on You My Former
Friend, then I now know what CFH truly stands for:  CHIEF FOOL HERDER. -- Hammer
P.S.  Your Pal Gloat was the One I Figured Who Let Things Get Out of Hand these Past
Months, but Now We Know the Chief Fool Herder has been Pulling the Puppets' Strings!

*Baphomet* -- According to Jon in the RSI Offices, the Gift Cert has been Snail
Mailed from my account to you.  You should have it by the time you post your P-ads!
-- Hammer

North Fork Neighbors/SCOMSS Swamp Citizens -- About 2 or 3 weeks have passed since I
vented my rage in the above P-ads and my Team Spotlight PREQUEL for this issue; now
let us proceed as life goes on to make ready for the War that is Turf War 4 that will
soon be upon us!  Rumors abound that several managers are making plans to send
stables to DM 47 specifically to be a part of the ruckus amuckus that has been
stirred up in our Swamp in recent weeks!  If you thought the P-ads were lively
before....  If you thought the Spotlights were Entertaining Before....  If you
thought the competition was some of the toughest before....  Looks like the Best is
Yet to Be!!!!! -- Hammer

North Fork Neighbors/SCOMSS Swamp Citizens -- Why just look at the variety of
entertainment assembling for TW4 in just 4 more cycles!  There's the Vendetta Swamp
Carnival; V@U Swamp Circus; the Defending Champion Swamp Scummers; the Swamp Coffee
Grinders and the Swamp NuttyAlumni who have already been seen making preparations for
the upcoming Turf War 4 here in our beloved Swamp!  Who Knows What Other Whacko
Alliances will Pop In for the Contest?  Which Surprise Guest Stars will be Signing On
with the Aforementioned Alliances?  Get Yer Gift Certs Purchased and Registered with
Baphomet and let the Blades of Battle Begin! -- Hammer

Oz -- Indeed SCOMSS Swamp Arena is one of the better labeled arenas to follow a
victorious contest accomplishment!  Lets all the Newcomers know who to measure their
accomplishments against during the upcoming TW4 whenever they check the newsletter!
Savor Your Victory!  I Suspect that You will be Signing On a Surprise Guest Star or
Two to Bolster Your Roster and Raise the Standard for the TW4 Competition! -- Hammer

PdiddykLk -- Looks like it's time to select another Champion for TW4, my friend! --
Hammer

Spawn -- Enjoy Your Retirement!  The Swamp will always have a place for your stable
should you decide to return from your self imposed exile! -- Hammer

Kat -- In spite of our differences I wish you and my former VC mates well and still
consider all of you to be friends!  Just time to move on for whatever reason in my
fevered mind! -- Hammer
P.S.  Even if Baphomet rules against my declaring for another alliance I choose to
part company with the VC even if it means not being allowed to compete with an
alliance during the TW4 contest!

Baphomet -- If the shoe fits it would be because you took the Initiative to Speak Up
in My Behalf in Recent Cycles! -- Hammer
P.S.  You should have received that Gift Cert by now!  Put it in the Pot even if your
ruling is against me being allowed to re-declare!

Ed. -- I know that I mentioned it in my recent P-ad in Jhans, but it is important to
make it known here in the Swamp where it matters the most at the present time!  I
have NO Problem with ANYONE writing about Hammer in their Spots!  Every Dog Has His
Day!  They Take Their Shots and I Take Mine!  That's Entertainment!  Thrive! --
Hammer

Gloat -- Received Your Diplo and Warnings!  Tell Your Clown Friends to Write to Their
Hearts' Content!  Should make for Entertaining Reading here in the Swamp! -- Hammer

Baphomet -- Received Your Diplo as well my friend!  It was like getting a package
filled with Ying and Yang to the Extreme! -- Hammer

CFH -- Since you went to all that trouble with your explanations in the Spot and P-ad
directed my way, I understand your line of thinking and in honor of our former
friendship I will no longer refer to your alliance as Clones!  However, it is much
more obvious to those observing recent developments that CFH really means
ClownsForHire! -- Hammer
P.S.  I did NOT approach the Vendetta Cartel for membership!  Master Darque contacted
me way back when and asked me to join!  Now I have Resigned!  Life Goes On!

Dark Nightie Stoker the Clown -- Foolish Boy!  You Think You Know! -- Hammer

Gloat the Clown -- You Think You Have a Clue Too! -- Hammer

Abrasive the Clown -- I Expect You will be Piping Up Sooner or Later! -- Hammer

Hoo Doo the Clown -- Birds of a Feather! -- Hammer

Wuzzy the Clown -- Bring on the Show! -- Hammer

Skull Head the Clown -- Looks like you will fit right in with the V@U Swamp Circus
for the TW4 contest! -- Hammer

Sik Doktor the Clown -- You too are included by your association with the Swamp
Circus! -- Hammer

NoSaneDumbA$$ the Clown -- Figures that you will also poke your prognosticating nose
into this Swamp Mess as well; so Sharpen Your Blades and Your Wits, Clown Boy! --
Hammer

All You Clowns -- Time for your Circus to roll into the Swamp and show us all just
what The Defalcating Empire is All About! -- Hammer

Knightmare -- Rest In Peace!  From One Formerly Declared Champion to Another! --
Swamp Claw Hammer

Incubus -- Looks Like I Live to Fight Another Day! -- Swamp Rose Hammer

Holle' Cherry -- Thanks for the Experimental Tune Up! -- Swamp Trap Hammer

Embezzling Scribe -- You Do Serve a Purpose in the Swamp! -- Swamp Lily Hammer

Persistant Beggar -- Persistent [BURP!] Beggar [BURP!] Indeed! -- Swamp Burp Hammer

Jorja -- Just Paying Homage to Wyatt in Morya! -- Hammer

North Fork Neighbors/SCOMSS Swamp Citizens -- Hawkeye Hammer was sent to DM 73 along
with the rest of the Avenger Hammerz stable.  Do Not Know Why the Gladiatorial
Commission allowed him to fight last cycle! -- Hammer

Talon Dark Hart -- More time has passed since I wrote the previous P-ads and I now
hear according to your online missive that it is rumored that Baphomet will allow me
to declare with another alliance due to the postponement of the TW4 from T-221 until
the now rescheduled T-225 this coming June!  If that is truly the case, then I will
consider your offer to compete with your alliance during the coming Turf War 4 as an
Independent Addition to the roster! -- Hammer

North Fork Neighbors/SCOMSS Swamp Citizens -- As mentioned above to TDH, yet More
Time has passed since writing the previous P-ads.  The T-221 duedate is nearly upon
us and I must make a decision regarding my participation in the upcoming Turf War 4
which is one of the Main Reasons I chose to send my New Stable ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ as a
Permanent Addition to the North Fork DM 47/SCOMSS Swamp Arena.  Recent Developments
and Decisions have made me an Independent Player due to my Declaration of War against
the Clowns of the Swamp Circus and my subsequent reactionary decision to resign from
the ranks of my friends in the Vendetta Swamp Carnival; however, I do enjoy the team
concept when it comes to competing in contests, so I am making my Final Decision
regarding Declaring an Alliance Affiliation for the upcoming TW4 which promises to be
ONE of the Best All Time Slow Arena Contests to ever be held in DM 47 or ANY Other
Arena in Alastari in recent memory! -- Hammer

My Dear Friend Mr Coffee -- Our Friendship both Inside and Outside the arena makes
this a Difficult Decision, but I have decided to declare with another alliance for
the upcoming TW4 contest!  My original petition to Baphomet for a re-declaration of
alliance affiliation due to the postponement of the original contest date was in some
small part sparked by the thought that I would like to compete in the TW4 as a member
of your Swamp Grinders anti Oz and his Cronies alliance.  I have always appreciated
Great Satire in Literature and the possibility of participating in the ranks of your
Satirical Alliance, well knowing that our mutual respect and friendship with Oz/
Consortium/Wayne would have made it a fun experience enhancing our dueling enjoyment
during the TW4 contest was almost too good to pass up; however, my recent conflict
with the Clowns of the Swamp Circus and the diatribe last cycle by their leader
ClownsForHire has given me pause to reflect upon the ramifications that declaring
with your alliance would bring your way during the upcoming Clown Conflict/TW4
Competition.  Therefore, I have decided that because our friendship is held in the
highest regard by both of us with mutual respect both In and Out of the arena, I have
decided to NOT embroil you in any of the retaliation that is certain to be leveled
your way from the Clown Conflict if we were to be alliance mates for the TW4 contest!
I trust that you understand my heart in this matter! -- Hammer

Talon Dark Hart -- Since your kLk associates have unanimously voted that Hammer would
be a more than welcome addition as an Independent Outsider to compete in the TW4 with
the Illuminati Alliance in spite of the fact that I have openly verbalized my
position regarding the recent developments with my personal Clowns Conflict; be it
hereby witnessed by all North Fork Neighbors/SCOMSS Swamp Citizens that Hammer
accepts your hand of friendship and hereby declares himself among your TW4 ranks! --
Hammer

*Baphomet* -- I hereby re-declare ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ to be added to the TW4 contest
alliance affiliations as a member of the Illuminati Alliance for the TW4 contest!
This is of course on the basis that the rumored ruling information forwarded to me
online by Talon Dark Hart is TRUE because TDH and his kLk associates have extended to
me the right hand of fellowship as an Independent with the pledge of their Blades
with Mine to Make Every Effort to Emerge from the TW4 Contest Conflict as Champions!
-- Hammer
P.S.  Speaking of Champions!  My Champion re-declaration will be made prior to the
TW4 Opening Round as I have decided to Evaluate the Performance of my ALL SWAMP
HAMMERZ stable before making my selection and declaration in an upcoming P-ad
announcement for the TW4 contest!
P.P.S.  Thanks for Your Kind Consideration and Ruling Regarding My Re-Declaration!

ClownsForHire and the Swamp Circus Clowns -- Do NOT Make the Mistake of Thinking that
Hammer is Now Hiding Behind the NuttyAlumni alliance!  My Decision to Re-Declare was
Based Upon the Fact that ALL SWAMP HAMMERZ was Sent to North Fork/SCOMSS Swamp Arena
as a Permanent Stable to Enjoy the Future Contests being held in DM 47 such as the
upcoming Turf War 4 contest hosted by Baphomet the Blade!  This is a New Year and a
New Attitude that Your Clowns Helped Cultivate! -- Hammer
P.S.  My Good Friend Maximillian of the Swamp Carnival recently pointed out to me in
the wake of my resignation from the VC that my several stables' performing poorly was
due in large part to my insistence upon running many less-than-mediocre rollups that
I refused to send to the Dark Arena!  This is a TRUE Assessment by my long time
friend!  So let's see if your Clowns are able to slaughter my stable of less-than-
mediocre warriors which I have refused to send to the Dark Arena due to the fact that
I enjoy running Experiments and Maintenance Experiments at that, along with writing
Spots and P-ads!

North Fork Neighbors/SCOMSS Swamp Citizens -- The T-221 Due Date is now a couple of
days away!  Further Developments are Brewing in this Swamp Soap Saga!  Stay Tuned! --
Hammer

COURAGE -- Congratulations on your Graduation Call to the Isle of the Eye prior to
the Opening Round of the upcoming TW4 contest! -- Hammer

Hourglass -- I am rooting for you to ascend to the Duel Master's Swampy Throne so you
can gain those Precious Political Points and Get Graduated Before TW4 Begins! -- 
Hammer

Rainbow -- Of course, I would NOT be disappointed if You Gained the Throne and
Graduated Before TW4 Begins Either! -- Hammer

Oz the All Noticing -- Why am I rooting for your Glads to Grad?  Simply put my
friend, then you will have 3 Possible New Champions to choose from for the upcoming
TW4 contest; whereby ALL the Newcomers to Our Beloved Swamp will have the Opportunity
to be Rudely Introduced to Your Brand of Humility and Contest Cunning! -- Hammer
P.S.  Continue that current winning streak you are posting without ANY losses so you
can get it out of your system before the TW4 contest gets underway and Contest Blades
Clash!

Baphomet the Blade -- Rumor has it that you have been hard at work making Diplomatic
Negotiations behind the scenes!  Time ran out and an offer was presented my way that
also hinged on an alliance agreement made with another Independent Player!  No Reply
Nor Acknowledgement from your online source factored into my decision! -- Hammer

Talon Dark Hart -- In the Final Analysis, the Walker County Connection made the MAJOR
Difference in My Final Decision! -- Hammer

ClownsForHire and the Swamp Circus Clowns -- Nothing like Unexpected Behind the
Scenes Preparations for a Turf War Contest to Produce Surprise Contacts and Results
that Change the Course of History!  Especially Secret War Room Meetings! -- Hammer

North Fork Neighbors/SCOMSS Swamp Citizens -- Another Hammer Historical DM Goal has
been reached this cycle!  Quite By Unexpected Cosmic Design!  History has been made
by writing 47 P-ads for DM 47 this past month!  Special Thanks to ALL the Clowns who
helped to make this Hammer Achievement Possible! -- Hammer
P.S.  May Your Blades Be Sharp and Your Wits Sharper! -- Hammer the WordSmith

CFH -- While I am  humbled by the homage the V@U name pays to Firehawk and I, it is
not necessarily the name that has sparked the recent confrontations between our two
groups.  The incessant name calling, badgering, and simple lack of arena etiquette
has much to do with it.  It began in 59 with Goat, Nostradamus, Toker, and Wasby,
mainly directed at Hammer, but other instances can be cited also directed to the VC
as a whole.  If they did not speak on behalf of V@U, it needs to be stated as such.
I fight in arenas with other V@U members and the same problems have not been an issue
(i.e., DM 45 with Abraxis and Voodoo).  Hammer has resigned from the VC of his own
will; however, this does not rectify the problem.  As long as Goat and his circus
continue to harass members of the VC, my members will operate under the order to
exterminate with extreme prejudice, and that order will come directly from me. --
Master Darque
P.S.  Mistakes abound in all endeavors, but I assure you Sensei Jan was not one of
them.

Wasby the great -- Thank you, we do so enjoy a good slaughter. -- Maximillian

Oz, Mr. Coffee -- I never did answer your welcome, thank you.  I haven't been in
North Fork in many years, always liked it here (seem to remember my BAer tangling
with Jabberwock back then). -- Maximillian

Barnabas -- I'd feel a whole lot better if I could plant a couple more of your boys.
-- White Settler

Zontani Sharp Eyes -- Three kills from my guildhouse and not even a mention in the 
spy report!  Give me Olaf Modeen or Snide Clemens those are spy reporters. --
Maximillian

Fatboy -- Next time, I will make you repent your evil ways. -- Devout Christian

B.B. Cross -- Don't ask me how I ended up with two broadswords, I asked for a shield.
It was quite awkward. -- Clintonlikesbush

Soulforge -- The last Roach just got smoked, now bow before a higher power. -- Devout
Christian

Soulforge -- Size really doesn't matter, does it? -- Maximillian

Vincere Aut Mori -- What's with the little downchallenge, are you covering for your
alliance mate 'cause he's got no-one that can beat me?  Your plan for a Striker
mismatch failed miserably. -- Little Big Man

All -- This contest of alliances is going to be very interesting this time, we look
forward to it impatiently. -- Maximillian and the Natural B. Killers

Spawn -- Sorry to see you go. -- Maximillian and the Natural B. Killers

Oz -- 15-0-0.  Indeed you are the one and only Oz, the all powerful. -- Maximillian

Vendetta Cartel -- My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Mr. Hammes. --
Goat

Alarond the Scribe -- Please notify the commission to send Baphomet a cert for the
Turf War. -- Goat

     It is much better to send requests such as this (with your name and account
     number) directly to Customer Service.  I have, however, forwarded your ad to
     Customer Service, along with the rest of the necessary information. -- Ed.

Baphomet -- In the future I will either direct my p-ads to "Baphomet the host" or
"Baphomet the Dangerous."  This is to make sure you don't disqualify me when I jab at
you as manager and you take it as a host.  Good luck in the contest.  Nice
downchallenge! -- Dark Knight Goat for V@U

Sir Galahad -- What foul language from a Knight!  For a broken weapon?  You taught
well.  Salute. -- Desolate Soldier Galor

Tressa -- Seig Heil! -- Barren Blade War Car Hamm.

Yuri Karlomov -- First time I used that weapon.  You fought well. -- Desolate Soldier
Wyrd

Ahura Mazda -- You hit me what 15 to 18 times and could not kill me?  For all that
standing around I leave only one? -- Barren Blade Midguard

Abraxis -- Are you going to claim a region? -- Dark Knight Goat

All -- Apparently my ads were misplaced, as well as quite a few of my turns.  The
problems should have been fixed.  Sorry if we failed to reply to anyone. --
Blackstorm

Oz -- Sorry I've been away, but would you be so kind to explain to this old fool why
it's SCOMSS Swamp instead of North Fork. -- Blackstorm

Ebola (Z) -- Vitamin C took care of you real quick. -- Clockwork

Takalereihn II -- Ow! -- Zombie Knight

Culonegro (Soul Seeker?) -- Something wrong?  Do you have multiple personalities. --
Black Thunder
P.S.  My manager says once more.

Shadow Rains -- That was pretty good. (snicker) -- Eviscerator

Ten Go meter -- I wanted that one back real bad.  I kept my head up this time. --
Marajuana Man

All -- You all seem tensed up and a bit stressed here in 47.  Mellow out, remember to
have a good time. -- Blackstorm the relaxed and unaffiliated

Street Legal -- In light of the sad news of Rich Hammes, A.K.A. Slaughter Priest,
passing I would to offer my sincere condolences to his family, friends and to the
dueling community that will be humbled by his untimely passing.  I only shared two
arenas with him; however, in the short time I played with him, I found him to be a
class act.  If there is anything I can do, just ask.  With all respect. -- Toker

Vendetta Cartel -- Out of respect for the passing of Slaughter Priest, Vincere Aut
Mori and a few other stables of V@U, who were able to be in contact, agreed that we
would only fight four of our warriors on each team this turn.  The other warriors
will keep guard over the candles we lit in mourning.  The loss of a respected and
valued member of your alliance will be hard.  I give my prayers to his family and to
all of you who were close to him. -- REST IN PEACE -- RICH HAMMES. -- Toker

Baphomet -- Let me start this off by letting you know that I am not writing this
because of threats, insults or your unforgiving nature.  None of those worry me!  I
am not going to write a slightful response to your p-ad from last turn.  I think we
are getting our wires crossed.  I know that you read my p-ad last turn and have
received my diplo.  I know that your p-ad was written before you received my diplo,
etc...and I take that into account.  You have always been courteous to me and mine,
that doesn't go unnoticed.  I challenge who I feel is the best matchup for my warrior
at the time.  If you don't like me stating my challenge, it's noted.  If you feel
that I am targeting you, that's your choice.  I am trying my hardest to be humble and
stomach your last p-ad.  It's hard, but since this all might be a misunderstanding, I
don't want to write anything that will continue this, IF it is a misunderstanding.  I
respect your capacity as host of TW4 and will continue to throughout TW4, no matter
what.  However, I am not your son; I don't fear athlete's foot; I'm glad that you are
not forgiving (neither am I!); I am happy that you have a passel of fellows (nobody
should be without friends); and if it comes down to it, I will fight to the end and
give a good accounting of myself.  Also, your comment about losing your composure and
smacking me around for practice was hilarious and I loved it.  So Baphomet, you see
where I stand through my diplo and p-ads.  Now it is up to you to be a man and accept
a friend or say the words and make me your enemy!  With respect -- Dark Knight Toker

Dark Knight Wasby The Great -- Looks as if this arena will be fun.  Maybe even more
fun than all the other ones. -- Dark Knight Toker

Dark Knight Goat -- Send diplo!  Mine is in the mail to you.  Did you read the
Talcama newsletter this last turn?  If you did, let me know what you think! -- Dark
Knight Toker

All -- We are the Dark Side.  We are managed by Sho-time.  I'm a new manager.  See
you on the sands. -- Sho-time

C.F.H. -- I would like to become part of your alliance.  I read in the last
newsletter to sound off if I wished to become V@U.  I need answers to a lot of
questions.  Thank you. -- Sho-Time

Street Legal/Vendetta Cartel -- Please accept my sincerest condolences on the passing
of Richard Hammes, a.k.a. Slaughter Priest.  If there is anything I can do at all,
please let me know.  As a gesture of respect for a fallen friend and honorable foe,
one warrior from Soulforge will not enter the arena this turn.  My thoughts and
prayers go out to the Hammes family and may Richard rest in peace. -- Wasby

All -- Let us have a moment of silence in our hearts for Richard Hammes.  We all know
how painful the passing of someone in our life can be.

CFH -- I am still adhering to your two rounds of silence, but I know an exception
will be made for my above p-ad. -- Wasby

Baphomet -- I declare for V@U.  My team is the Leaders.  Cert is on the way. --
ABRAXIS

All -- My p-ads were not printed last turn, so it there are two sets this turn, the
others are the old ones. -- Big Nose Kate, mgr. Tombstone

Baphomet -- Should CFH accept my blade under the Vendett@United banner, I will
declare for him.  If not I will remain independent. -- BNK, Tombstone

Toker -- Our condolences for your loss.  We look forward to the bloodfeuds. --
Tombstone Guildhouse

Jash -- I guess you weren't satisfied with our first encounter, huh?  Congrats on the
victory. -- Mattie

Amalric -- Did I really learn two parry skills?!?  I thought my eyes were playing
tricks on me! -- Wyatt

TDM -- There's something about you that I just don't like.  Maybe it's the ICP
references or perhaps your cologne.  Either way I think I'll put you in your place
like Slim did Eaggot 2 Dop and Silent Kay!  Don't ask for a date afterwards either,
because this girl is happily married!! -- Kate, Tombstone

Mr. Oz -- We recognize you as *ALASTARI'S MOST FRIENDLIEST MANGER!* -- Baphomet (the
Oz-recognizer)

Spawn -- You will be sorely missed. -- Baphomet (email:  rsbaphomet@yahoo.com)

TDH -- You ain't seen nothing yet!  I might caution you on the quips at Canadians.
You'll likely get a Royal Surprise! (grin) -- Baphomet

Kat -- Actually , I thought it was the purrfect time. (grin)  Glad to have you and
yours in TW4 and wish you all well.  Including Master Darque. -- Baphomet

Toker -- Each side of a disagreement play a part.  I offer my apologies as well.
Now, let me buy the drinks. -- Baphomet

Azrael -- Let me welcome you to our fine arena.  This is Free Blades, so not so loud,
okay?  but, by all means...have fun! -- Baphomet

P-Diddy -- Read above.  Also, allow me to welcome another of my Brothers!  Hope you
enjoy this place as much as I do! -- Baphomet

Mr. Coffee -- Last turn was the most talkative I've ever see you.  You got a strong
batch of new beans, didn't you?!  And, I'm stuck here drinking instant!!!  Dang!!! --
Baphomet

Mr. Oz -- Congrats on yet another 5-0 turn.  That's 3 in a row!  What, pray tell, if
your secret?  I might have to come and steal it!!! -- Baphomet (trying to get any
edge he can with his worst team!)

Hammer -- Actually, it was more from respect than wisdom.  The Consortium, and Crip
have been great friends for a while, and Spawn as well.  I try to show respect where
it's due.  You've received it, ain't you?  See what I mean? -- Baphomet

Goat -- For some reason, I figured you'd do that.  It's why I did one of my own.
(grin) -- Baphomet

Hammer -- My old friend, got your diplo.  No word as of yet.  Thank you for asking.
Please continue to pray on my behalf. -- Mr. Coffee

AU -- The Pseudo Rooster strutting and Crowing with your small chests jutting out
like some awkward teenager on the make lay naked your pretentious ways.
     For all of an "alliance's" membership you MUST fight warrior against warrior and
a manager's friends can only congratulate him on his wins, console him on his losses,
or hold his pens as he writes his "verbose" ramblings.
     It's a great game, except for those of you with your sensitive pride and
misplaced machismo, then it's a funny game that makes the more mature managers laugh.
-- Mr. Coffee/Coffee Rules! (505)

Baphomet -- Children and the immature adults they often grow to be should not be
disqualified for showing off the pureness of their essence.
     I say "Nay" to disqualification.  Thirty minutes in the corner "quiet time"
should be punishment enough. -- Mr. Coffee

Oz (The All Managing) -- 15-0! and 60.5% with over 700 fights.  SCOMMS Swamp must
truly be the land of Oz. -- Mr. Coffee

Spawn -- Truly a loss.  The swamp will not be the same.  Farewell until your return.
-- Mr. Coffee

Master Darque -- You have me confused.  Not like you?  I apologize.  Certainly you
must be mistaken.  Tell you what...join me for the contest.  I give to you an
invitation. -- Mr. Coffee/Coffee Rules!

CFH -- No thanks on the invite.  You have enough (a-hem) managers. -- Mr. Coffee

CFH -- Let me get this straight.  One p-ad says be silent to be V@U and in the same
p-ad if you want to be V@U "sound off."  Confusing. -- Mr. Coffee

Cappuccino -- Twice you fall in swamp to me.  Pick on own size! -- Grendel (Nemesis)

Paula,...dear -- I saw Courage off to A.D. for you. -- Jabberwock (Nemesis)

Oz -- Wow.  You're three turns lossless.  I'm all-impressed! -- Snarky (Nemesis)

Spawning of Spawn -- You could teach Scott a lesson. -- Sting (Nemesis)

Bananas on the Move -- (huge grin) -- Snarky

TDH -- Some Americans go desperate without NHL, too! -- San Jose Snark

Picus (Vincere) -- Never liked Casiea, anyway.  Good riddance. -- The Kurgen
(Nemesis)

Spawn (Spoonertiks) -- Took 500 years of arena fights for the Romans to hit bottom;
glad you quit before that. -- Snarkus, Duelmaster (not)

31 January 2005
     My fellow duelists I come before you bearing a sad and unfortunate message.
Several months ago our group, the Vendetta Cartel, had lost contact with one of our
friends.  Since he was in contact or correspondence on an almost daily basis there
was concern amongst us.  With some research two of our members discovered why contact
was lost with him.
     On November 10, 2004, Richard Hammes was taken from us in a senseless act of
violence during a robbery attempt at a friend's store where he sometimes worked.  He
was watching the store so his friend could go home to tend to his son who had taken
ill.  You may have known Rich as Abarsis, The Slaughter Priest ; richh10 on the RT;
or gameogre on the Duel2 messageboard.  You may not have known that he spent 13 years
serving the United States in the Navy.
     Rich dearly loved this game and all it encompassed.  He may not have been the
best or most experienced manager but he loved to interact with others and was quick
to offer advice whenever anyone asked for help.  He was always kind and gracious and
tried to strengthen our game, often by helping new players feel welcome or give them
a chance to compete.  With his prolific posting I know that I am simply speaking the
obvious about what he did for our game.  Many, like me, were drawn to him, perhaps
for his kind nature or his sense of humor, and it appears he lived his life as he
played this game.  Always willing to help or do right by others.
     I realize that he had many friends outside the VC so I will include the link to
the news story in case any of his other friends would like to know more of what
happened.  We're all dealt a hand in life but it's not the strength of the hand
you're dealt but rather how you play it that really matters.  Rich played his hand to
the very best of his human ability and for this I admire him greatly.  I know we all
choose to like or dislike managers but I believe deep down we are all good and
decent, in this game, and will drop party (alliance) lines and will show the proper
respect.
     http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20041112/news_7m12clerk.html
     Rich was taken from us all to soon and with so much left to offer the community
around him.  He spoke of a desire to run a contest on the Duel2 site which I hope to
uphold in his name.  Some of the people I have spoken with think it would be a nice
gesture to do one final good act in Rich's name, though it could never match what he
would've done within his community, for his community of San Diego.  I hope that with
this contest we might raise a little money to donate to an appropriate charity within
San Diego in his name.
     In conclusion I send a message to Rich:
     "Rich, though I'm sure you gathered this I never really told you how much I
admired you and what a friend I considered you.  I thank you for being my voice of
reason and always reminding me of why we both loved this game so much!  You have
taught me one final valuable lesson in learning more of you.  There are things far
more valuable in life than material possessions such as character and kindness.  That
nothing going on in your life means that you cannot find a way to be kind and giving
to others.  We always spoke of meeting someday and until we finally do know that you
will live on in with me and the rest of your brothers and sisters in the Cartel:
Master Darque, Kat, Bum, Sensei Jan, Maximillian, Hammer, Fizban, Firehawk, Phat
Phat.  You increased all of our enjoyment of this game, you were a true ambassador of
Duelmasters, and the game will not be quite the same without you.  A farewell battle
cry from the ZalCon:  'Confusion to our enemies'.  May your soul rest in peace, my
friend."
     Should anyone wish to correspond about Rich feel free to contact myself, or
anyone else within the Vendetta Cartel.
     Street Legal
     Jeff Bura
     The Death Squad(63) in Tobir or triumph1971@hotmail.com

31 January 2005
     Be it known throughout Alastari that Hammer is no longer a member of the
Vendetta Cartel alliance.
     A difference of opinion with another highly respected member of the VC due to my
recent vocal actions in DM 47 can only be resolved by my resignation from the VC as
of January 29, 2005.
     I leave of my own accord, in good standing with all members and with no hard
feelings towards anyone in the Vendetta Cartel.
     There was a time when I felt that my membership in the VC made the alliance
stronger.  I know that my resignation today makes the Vendetta Cartel a stronger
alliance with my absence. -- Hammer

1 February 2005
                           St. Valentine's Massacre update
My apologies, the Kill Contest starting on turn 476 in Jhans will run for 10 (ten)
turns ending on turn number 486.
                                                                   Azrael

5 February 2005
On behalf of the ILLUMINATI Confederation of Alliances (The kLk, CHAOS, Inc. and The
Company of Brothers) I would like to express our sympathies concerning the tragic
loss of Rich Hammes to both the DM community and to the real life world.  Surely our
loss has been Heaven's gain. -- Talon Darkhart, deeply sorrowful
                                kLk God of War, Illuminati Alliance, Puppetmaster

                                  LAST WEEK'S FIGHTS

SISTER MARY ELEPHANT was butchered by WURM KIN in a 1 minute Dark Arena fight.
JAY was butchered by THE BARTENDER in a 1 minute Dark Arena duel.
DA47 was murdered by CARDIAC CRAIG in a exciting 1 minute gory Dark Arena melee.
STRUCK OUT was dispatched by MR. COFFEE in a 2 minute bloody Dark Arena brawl.
DRAGONBALL GEEEZ T was savagely slain by PUTRID PATRICK in a 1 minute fight.
DEADINAMINUTE was dealt death by MURDEROUS MARK in a 1 minute gory Dark Arena duel.
JENNA devastated CYANIDE in a 1 minute mismatched Bloodfeud match.
GET THE POINT? was handily defeated by LEVIATHAN OF LARD in a 1 minute fight.
B.B. CROSS vanquished WHITE SETTLER in a 1 minute uneven Bloodfeud duel.
SOUL SEEKER vanquished ETIENNE DUPLAIX in a 1 minute uneven Bloodfeud fight.
DEAD ANGLE vanquished SWAMP CLAW HAMMER in a 1 minute one-sided Bloodfeud fight.
SHADOW was overpowered by LITTLE BIG MAN in a 1 minute one-sided Bloodfeud melee.
APPIUS overpowered RINGO in a 1 minute one-sided Bloodfeud match.
JABBERWOCK was viciously subdued by DEEP FRIED LARD in a 13 minute Challenge conflict.
WYRD demolished FIGHTING TREE in a 1 minute one-sided Challenge brawl.
GALDR handily defeated STING in a 3 minute one-sided Challenge conflict.
KRAMER vanquished ZOMBIE KNIGHT in a 1 minute mismatched Challenge bout.
ACE METRIC vanquished DRASTARDY DAKE in a 1 minute one-sided Challenge fray.
TEN C-0 METER was viciously subdued by SWEET N LOW in a 2 minute Challenge brawl.
MORGAN overpowered SISTER MARY SARAH in a 3 minute brutal one-sided Challenge bout.
GAFF overpowered CLINTONLIKESBUSH in a 1 minute one-sided Challenge match.
MELON MUSH was viciously subdued by GANGSTA CREEP in a 4 minute Challenge competition.
VASH THE STAMPEDE defeated MATTIE in a 2 minute Challenge duel.
BLACK THUNDER was outlasted by FREEZE DRIED in a dull 16 minute Challenge bout.
SWAMP BURP HAMMER was viciously subdued by HANTA in a 5 minute Challenge fray.
GRENDEL was demolished by LEET STREEGLE in a 1 minute one-sided Challenge fight.
ROBUST BREW vanquished AMALRIC in a 1 minute one-sided Challenge match.
IMMAZAEL was unbelievably bested by BENDER in a 3 minute novice's Challenge fight.
BROCK SAMPSON was vanquished by JACK MCFARLAND in a 1 minute uneven Challenge bout.
CAPPUCCINO was unbelievably bested by EBOLA (Z) in a 4 minute Challenge bout.
HOLLE' CHERRY was overpowered by EVICSERATOR in a 4 minute Challenge competition.
SWAMP TRAP HAMMER assassinated THE KURGEN in a 2 minute uneven Challenge fight.
SWAMP LILY HAMMER overcame TRESSA in a 2 minute brutal novice's Challenge fight.
DOC defeated FAMILY GUY in a 2 minute Challenge fight.
WOODY luckily beat CAFE AU LAIT in a 3 minute gory Challenge bout.
SWAMP ROSE HAMMER was handily defeated by DARK WARLOCK in a 3 minute Challenge match.
COURAGE vanquished ART PENDRAGON in a 1 minute mismatched fight.
RAINBOW savagely defeated KHALHUMS DWARF in a 6 minute brutal master's Title match.
HOURGLASS viciously subdued KHALHUMS DWARF in a 3 minute brutal veteran's fight.
SPAWING OF SPEWN handily defeated HUMBUG in a 1 minute uneven match.
MARAJUANA MAN overpowered DASTER MARQUE in a 1 minute uneven bout.
LEPPADA was overpowered by MINOR BLUE in a 1 minute bloody one-sided competition.
AHURA MAZDA vanquished KENTSUI FURY in a 2 minute one-sided match.
SIR GALAHAD subdued PAVEL MOLARI II in a action packed 4 minute duel.
STEAL SHANK was devastated by KOZYTA in a action packed 1 minute mismatched match.
TAKALEREIHN II handily defeated LADY ARCANE in a 1 minute mismatched fight.
YURI KARLOMOV luckily beat MAHARA in a 11 minute gruesome competition.
DEVOUT CHRISTIAN overcame CRISTER MOFFEE in a 2 minute match.
JACK & JILL outlasted TITANIA in a monotonous 15 minute fight.
DON KING overpowered FAJR FALAK in a 1 minute one-sided duel.
PAVEL MOLARI III overpowered INCUBUS in a 1 minute one-sided fray.
BORIS MARKOV was handily defeated by BLOOD RAYNE in a 1 minute brutal one-sided duel.
MIDGUARD overcame CHARLES MANSON in a 1 minute novice's bout.
SKIPPY was murdered by MSK in a 1 minute one-sided fight.
CLOCKWORK ORANGE handily defeated TUNNERS in a 1 minute mismatched contest.
DAY DREAM overpowered SEALAB 2021 in a 1 minute one-sided struggle.
NIGHT TERROR was luckily beaten by TSO TSUNG T'ANG in a 3 minute novice's brawl.
WYATT was bested by DRAMA QUEEN in a crowd pleasing 5 minute novice's match.
GENESIS was devastated by JIM JONES in a 1 minute one-sided bout.
WAR CRY HAMM was vanquished by KYLE in a 4 minute gory one-sided struggle.
BADI AL ZAMAN was bested by BLACK BALL in a 3 minute amateur's conflict.
ANTHRAX savagely slew BIRD in a action packed 7 minute brutal novice's match.
WILSON was handily defeated by ANTON LEVAY in a 1 minute mismatched battle.
SON YUNG MOON overpowered DANK MAN KIETH in a 1 minute one-sided struggle.
DAVID KARESH savagely defeated JEREMY in a action packed 9 minute novice's brawl.

                                    BATTLE REPORT

             MOST POPULAR                        RECORD DURING THE LAST 10 TURNS     
|FIGHTING STYLE               FIGHTS        FIGHTING STYLE     W -   L -  K   PERCENT|
|STRIKING ATTACK                 22         PARRY-LUNGE       18 -  12 -  0      60  |
|LUNGING ATTACK                  20         AIMED BLOW        57 -  40 -  2      59  |
|TOTAL PARRY                     19         WALL OF STEEL     45 -  38 -  1      54  |
|BASHING ATTACK                  17         TOTAL PARRY       95 -  89 -  1      52  |
|SLASHING ATTACK                 16         SLASHING ATTACK   63 -  70 -  7      47  |
|WALL OF STEEL                   11         STRIKING ATTACK   97 - 109 -  7      47  |
|AIMED BLOW                       9         LUNGING ATTACK    73 -  87 -  8      46  |
|PARRY-STRIKE                     4         PARRY-RIPOSTE     15 -  23 -  0      39  |
|PARRY-RIPOSTE                    3         BASHING ATTACK    57 -  90 -  2      39  |
|PARRY-LUNGE                      1         PARRY-STRIKE      14 -  26 -  1      35  |

Turn 221 was great if you     Not so great if you used      The fighting styles of the
used the fighting styles:     the fighting styles:          top eleven warriors are:

PARRY-LUNGE        1 -  0     TOTAL PARRY        9 - 10         3  TOTAL PARRY    
AIMED BLOW         8 -  1     SLASHING ATTACK    7 -  9         2  LUNGING ATTACK 
WALL OF STEEL      7 -  4     BASHING ATTACK     6 - 11         2  WALL OF STEEL  
STRIKING ATTACK   13 -  9     PARRY-RIPOSTE      1 -  2         2  STRIKING ATTACK
                              LUNGING ATTACK     6 - 14         1  AIMED BLOW     
                              PARRY-STRIKE       1 -  3         1  BASHING ATTACK 

                               TOP WARRIOR OF EACH STYLE

FIGHTING STYLE   WARRIOR                     W   L  K PNTS TEAM NAME                  
TOTAL PARRY      RAINBOW 4553               20   9  0  125 LAND OF OZ (217)
LUNGING ATTACK   LEVIATHAN OF LARD 5113     15   5  2  118 MYSTIC ORC FEAST (416)
WALL OF STEEL    HOURGLASS 5127             16   2  0  115 LAND OF OZ (217)
STRIKING ATTACK  SPAWING OF SPEWN 5197      10   2  0   92 MANEGERIAL MAYHEM (574)
BASHING ATTACK   WYRD 5167                   9   3  0   87 THE JESUITS (524)
AIMED BLOW       GALDR 5171                  7   4  1   79 THE JESUITS (524)
SLASHING ATTACK  ACE METRIC 3554             5   4  0   66 ROYAL FLUSH (48)
Note: Warriors have a winning record and are an Adept or Above.

The overall popularity leader is LEPPADA 2257.  The most popular warrior this turn 
was GANGSTA CREEP 5391.  The ten other most popular fighters were PAVEL MOLARI II 
3665, DAVID KARESH 5426, WYATT 5057, ANTHRAX 5446, HANTA 5443, CAPPUCCINO 5382, 
HOURGLASS 5127, AHURA MAZDA 5152, NIGHT TERROR 5420, and GALDR 5171.

The least popular fighter this week was BLACK THUNDER 3885.  The other ten least 
popular fighters were FREEZE DRIED 5308, JACK & JILL 5310, JEREMY 5521, HOLLE' CHERRY 
5437, BIRD 5522, WAR CRY HAMM 5436, YURI KARLOMOV 4215, THE KURGEN 5375, DANK MAN 
KIETH 5524, and WILSON 5482.

The following warriors will travel to AD after next turn:

RAINBOW (47-4553) LAND OF OZ (217)
DEEP FRIED LARD (47-4975) MYSTIC ORC FEAST (416)

The following warriors have traveled to AD after fighting this turn:

COURAGE (47-4552) LAND OF OZ (217)

                                  Name-Change-O-Rama

     The winter tourney brought a lot of people to the Isle who didn't appear there 
normally.  This included Commission employees.  Half a dozen arenamasters regarded 
each other warily in the mirror behind the bar at the Pig in a Haystack.  The Pig was 
obscure and mediocre, drawing few gladiators, which is what they had all been looking 
for.  They saw gladiators every day.  Most arenamaster were convinced that this was 
some kind of punishment.
     You could always pick out the arenamasters in a crowd.  There were superficial 
differences:  One of these had clearly Adantri features, one wore an eye-patch, two 
were female.  But there were, in significant ways, alike.  The same size, the same 
hair-trigger alertness, the same deadliness.
     The one-eyed man broke the ice, raising his beer mug in salute.  "I'm Zrof One-
Eye from Zukal.  Sugar of Arvat--"  One of the women bowed slightly.  "I know Sugar.  
The rest of you...?"
     The Adantri matched his salute.  "Dernal of Dayla Kiv."
     "Daiyla Kiv?  Ah...."
     "No, without the 'I' in it.  These damned bureaucrats can't spell, and they 
thought adding an unnecessary vowel was exotic."  Disgust dripped from his voice.
     "Tell me about it!" another man growled in agreement.  "Khagal of Niatoli, and 
what they do to the spelling of THAT simple word--!"
     "I thought Daiyla, I mean Dayla Kiv had a different name right now," 
Arenamistress Sugar said.  "The arena, at least, because of a contest?"
     "Chavez Ravine."  Dernal's tone was the one that substituted in polite company 
for spitting on the floor.
     Zrof blinked, taken aback by the bitterness.  He wouldn't have minded a contest 
in Zukal, and damn what they called the place.  "It's only temporary, though."
     "Temporary, shmiperary," another man muttered.  He seemed well into his drinking, 
although, like all arenamasters, he carried his liquor well.  "They do it all the time 
in Aradi.  No reshpect.  Go around changing thish, changing that.  I wish I could 
change shome thingsh."  He signalled the bartender for a refill.
     The second woman put her hand over his mug.  "You've had enough, Harkon.  Try the 
coffee, instead."
     "You should be mad, too, Ripplesh," Harkon said.  "They're going to do shtuff 
like that in Jahnsh, aren't they?"
     Ripples Dorrigan shrugged.  All the men paused, some with glasses half raised, to 
watch.  "It's the way things are," she said.  "Not much we can do about it."
     "You know," Khagal of Niatoli said, "maybe we could make a few changes.  Fix the 
spelling of Arena 33, for one, change a few standby titles--"
     "The Commission hates changes."  Dernal of Dayla Kiv topped up his glass and 
drained it gloomily.
     "Yes, but if we disguise it," Sugar of Arvat said, excited, "make it... maybe a 
general Name-Change-O-Rama!  Then we could slip OUR changes through and no one would 
notice or mind."

                  *-------*-------*-------*-------*-------*-------* 

     By popular demand, we are holding a Name-Change-o-Rama during the month of March.
If you wish to change the name of your warriors or teams, please contact RSI Customer 
Service.  The charge for a name change is $1, unless you're in DOOMCorps, in which 
case you take your chances.  (Just kidding, guys! *snicker*)