I use the clasp to help boost Chalice early and then any others available if needed. I added both because I wasn't sure which I'd like to use and just haven't changed them around. So far it's been fun the way it is. If it's a slow moving game, the engine can really help start the big boosting while the clasp might have eliminated something early. I really wanted to try something different other than the traditional mana ramps. It's rare to win quick, but usually I can get enough small guys out to block to let the mana move. I can win just with allies at times or put enough pressure until I can get a wave off. Usually if I am in a position to wait and get a 10+ wave, it's going to be trouble. If they didn't mill, then I have tons of allies out to help overrun them. The deck started out to be a sneaky mill, but can be just as effective with attackers. I'm thinking of dropping the 2 engines and adding elixir of immortality to get the others back if needed.
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I play with a deck very similar to this. It's really good when it works, and when it doesn't it's very painful. I have a couple of Blightning and Maelstrom Pulses for protection while it builds. I also have 4 Bloodbraids and a couple Master of the Hunts. I just came back, so most of my deck was illegal and wrecked when I lost my Elvish Harbingers. I like yours because mine tends to have more of a mana issue. I'm still really a novice when it comes to building, so sorry for sounding like a tard.