It was a while back but I love Wedges idea about eavesdropping:
I\'ve been thinking about it, and a scout skill should be something that you would really have to put some skill points in to for it to work right. ... Also perhaps a listening skill that lets you hear someones /tell and /guild messages if you are nearby them, there could be spies in the game.
Not knowing the capabilities of your opponent beyond the physical (equipment and stature) I think is a good thing. As far as I?m concerned the less dueling, the better.
It might even start a tradition of the pre-duel boast:
?I?ve killed dozens of swamp men on the northern marsh.?
?Oh yea, I?ve killed a dragon all by my lonesome with only a sword and shield and I was hurt going in to that cave?
?Sounds exciting, well look at the time ? I must be going!?
I heard no ?permadeath? ? so lessons will be learnt. You can always refuse a duel, or as someone suggested duels of honor and money.
Even without levels I hope there will be some sense of accompleshment - an occasional reach this stage of skill and get access to somewhere, something, or some other such capabilites.