Many of the actions in the Realms are based upon interval timers, including
some autonomous monster actions, hp/mana/move regeneration, spell
duration, weather.
Of these timers, the hp/mana/move regeneration timer is popularly called the
'tick'. Ticks in these Realms average 60 seconds of real time, but the
actual amount varies randomly from 45 seconds to 75 seconds.
Area resetting happens roughly every 3 minutes if there are no characters in
in the area; less often (15 minutes) if any characters are present; Also,
some lower level areas have shorter reset periods, while some higher level
areas have longer reset periods.
Note that objects lying on the ground will not be regenerated if anyone is
in the area when it resets.
Area resets are indicated by 'squeaking noises' or other messages just prior
to the reset itself.