Formal

A
duel, by its simplest definition, is a confrontation between two or more
witches or wizards. In a formal duel, one witch or wizard would issue a formal
challenge to another. If the challenge is accepted, the duel would take place
following the rules and customs of magical duels and any further limits agreed
upon by the participants prior to the duel.

The first and foremost rule of formal duels is
that only magical means can be used to disarm or injure an opponent. Many
duelists will generally agree not to use dangerous or illegal spells; however,
while generally only practiced during wartime, a duel can be agreed to be
fought to the death. This is not to suggest than any beginning witch or wizard
could participate in a duel to the death. Only more experienced advanced
duelers could hope to expect to do so successfully. A winner is decided by the
submission of one of the dueling parties. Recognized submissions are a
declaration of forfeit, inability to continue due to being disarmed or injured,
or death. A duelist is generally allowed a Second in formal duels. A second is
another witch or wizard who may step in for the duelist should doing so be
necessary.

The
duel begins with the two or more participants bowing to each other. This is a
sign of respect that is encouraged in formal atmospheres, but duelists who do
not respect their opponents with often forgo a genuine bow. Once the parties
have bowed, they turn and walk the appropriate paces apart. Then the duelists
would turn and face each other, wands at the ready position. A mediator will
then signal for the duel to commence.

Informal

While
many informal duels will be structured similarly to a formal duel, they amount
to very different experiences. The difference between a formal and informal
duel is that an informal duel rarely has a third party or mediator ensuring
that the rules and restrictions of a formal duel are abided by. For this
reason, many of the limits set upon by formal guidelines are ignored. This can
make for dangerous and harmful results. To participate in an informal duel is
to understand that one must be prepared for anything. An opponent not hindered
by rules may resort to physical combat outside of magical means. Limitations on
which spells can be used are void. Also, there is not someone there to step in
and end the duel if the situation gets out of hand.

Informal
duel is a term that encompasses a variety of scenarios, ranging from close to a
formal duel structure to spontaneous confrontations. This means that any time a
witch or wizard faces a magical opponent in a confrontation he or she is
engaging in an informal duel. These scenarios can include practicing spells on
one another, confronting a rival or enemy, or fighting in battle.