To Be Solved
So here’s the deal, guys. The first 20 of you to solve this will get an Alpha Fan pin in the mail, free of charge. Feel free to collaborate for the puzzle bits here in the comments, or on your various forums and blogs, but please don’t share the absolute end answer bits–so everyone gets a fair shot at the prize.
How it all works will make more sense as you solve it. A tip to help you when you get stuck: pay attention to the duplicates. They’ll trip you up if you’re not keeping tabs on them.
If you click the images, you’ll get higher res versions.
Pins still unclaimed:
Also, I apologize to your eyes. Good luck!
Thanks go Cohen of Reign In Hell for helping come up with the puzzle, and Chris for the PHP business.