I just joined this site and I have to say it is *amazing*!  It doesn't take much to make me happy and this was like opening a big present with a red bow on top.  There are so many little gadgets to play with.  Wow...so much to do and figure out!  Now I think I might actually have a place to share some of the wonderful resources that I have accumulated over the years.  So many links that would be SO helpful to building! 

 *cackles*  Watch out world!  I'm on a roll even if it is 2:38 in the morning here :P

After a rather animated, and helpful, discussion on mudbytes with Samson, Conner and a few others I have decided to build a gnome laboratory area.  I want to booby trap the area repeatedly with various gadgets that give the players time to "defuse" the gadget before it does something.  Could be good, could be bad!  I think I'll start simple with something that might have a tiny lever to pull, a switch to activate, or button to push. The further the players go the more difficult things get.  Maybe even make the "gadgets" load mobs (copies of the gadget) which attack.  There is a chance that pieces of gadgets found along the way will be the missing piece which deactivates the gadget...but which one...*cackle*

 Now if I can only come up with some unique names for the gadgets and pieces.  Hmm  gadget name generator anyone?

There is little I can do but watch as the titans clash again.  Their swords ring loud, sparks fly into the air then drop forlornly to the ground.  Heated breath quickens, sinews creak and groan as muscles strain to deliver the fatal blow.  Blood showers skin and armor, droplets fall to sate the thirsty soil underfoot. Dust clouds rise as does the smell of blood, sweat, and tears.  Those who gather round remain silent.  Fearful perhaps, or is it awe in the ability of the mighty titans who clash in the center of an ancient ring.  Upon occasion one or another spectator calls out, but quickly falls silent as blades meet again.  The creak of leather breaks the monotonous sound of metal against metal.  A groan of strain breaks free from one or the other, but is quickly smothered as brows are drawn in intense concentration.

 There is little I can do, my friend.  The battle is as old as man.  Fight a good fight, refuse to give quarter, and hope the sword finds its berth in the heart of the opponent.  Sadness weighs the soul down, quickens the heart of those who weep silently.  Would that the mighty titans would stop for a moment, take a deep breath, and think back to a time when misunderstandings could be erased with talk taken over a fine mug of ale.  A handshake would mark the word and understanding, more endearing and final than any barrister's twisted pact. 

Would that we were there again.  Turn away, my friends, before the destruction wrenches the heart from us all, those who knew and revered the mighty titans.