Not so much a duel as a free form battle; we just fought over late-night-empty streets of Trinsic. I had no idea dispel worked in this case, but it totally makes sense.
I should probably get more familiar with the combat system. It makes a lot more sense than when I left UO, but there are a lot more options and quite a few tricks like this I should know.
I've never been a PVP person, but my friend makes it fun and interesting enough that I think I might be hooked.
Thanks!