18 The City of Clocks

Anbernel was nothing like I imagined. Master talked about the city before, describing its gray stone buildings and walkways protruding from the third floor that formed bridges to connect one neighborhood block with the other. Canals ran throughout the city but they were reserved for the transport of coal and other materials for the local businesses. The city's docks were also filled with merchant ships loading and unloading wooden crates and barrels.

Stone statues of beautiful winged spirits called pari could be seen in every direction. It was as if the city was obsessed with them. The brass clock from Anbernel in Master's study was also decorated with depictions of these creatures.

I understood why Iris and Adrian loved Anbernel so much. There was always something for everyone. Whether it was exotic finds or mere local delicacies, the city seemed like it had everything to offer.

I stood on the balcony of our room facing the sunset. We rented a room at an inn by the docks for the duration of our stay. Our room was at the highest floor, which had a good view of the whole city. Adrian and Iris both went out to do some shopping before night fell. I decided to stay behind at the inn to gaze at the scenery.

As the sun made its gradual descent into the sea, its golden rays colored the gray buildings for a moment. The salty breeze left my hair in disarray, but I paid no mind to it. I was too mesmerized by the view.

"It's a shame not to see the rest of the world," Master often repeated.

I understood now why he always said that.

Looking over the famous city of clocks, what stood out the most was the black clock tower. The tall metal structure was the highest building in the whole city. It loomed over Anbernel like an intimidating shadow. Its ominous bells announcing the hour were rather unsettling

Tomorrow was the day we were going to the clock tower. After the incident earlier today, Adrian couldn't ignore the invitation. Our names were already blacklisted. There was no turning back.

Once the sun was no longer visible, I went back inside.

***

It was drizzling the next day, so Iris and I stayed at the inn's small bistro the whole morning. Adrian went out alone to meet the good friend of the high-rank mechanic we were looking for. As we waited for his return, we listened to the music of the bard singing about the pirates that used to attack the city.

"Long ago, Anbernel used to be a popular center of trade for precious metals like gold and lunatia. It still is today, but half of the traders were driven away by the frequent pirate attacks from back then. Those days were terrifying! They would come with five or more ships and steal our stocks. Thank goodness the Sariyan Order sent in reinforcements to protect us. We had absolutely no help from the government. Does the king not care about us?"

The owner of the inn went on to complain about the government. A few of his customers joined him in their harsh criticism.

Iris swallowed the last of her casserole and drank her mug of ale. "I hope Adrian doesn't catch a cold. He left without an umbrella."

"What happens if we don't find the mechanic?" I asked.

"We either find leads or return home."

I noticed Adrian at the entrance of the inn. He was lightly soaked with rainwater. He sat with us and shook his head. "He already left the city."

"Where did he run off to?"

"He didn't say. Nobody I asked knew."

Iris sighed. "That is unfortunate."

"We are already here. The least we can do is enjoy the city."

"You're right. This is Aliciel's first time here in Anbernel. We should show her around. I heard from the inn's owner that there will be a festival this weekend."

Adrian paused for a moment. "Iris, I need to speak to you in private. Please excuse us, Aliciel."

I watched as the twins went back to the room. Adrian was probably going to tell his sister about the meeting at the clock tower. They always decided important matters together. After about five minutes, they returned. Iris was looking a little anxious.

"Let's head out and do some shopping before we visit the clock tower," said Adrian.

The three of us visited the city's biggest emporium where Iris was searching for a souvenir to give to her professor. I decided to get a souvenir for Sina as well.

The emporium was a large building that covered half a block. Most of the workers were automatons that were in charge of tidying up and restocking. The products they offered were so diverse that there was something different every time you turn around. They even had a corner for local delicacies.

Plenty of shoppers were present that day. Most of them were interested in the clocks.

A small pocket watch from the glass display caught my eye. It had a drawing of a pari etched on its metal cover. Something about it mesmerized me. I wasn't sure if it was the faint ticking sound or its shiny brass exterior. It seemed like a good present for Sina.

Iris kept an eye on me as I purchased the watch. "Perhaps clocks make the best souvenirs. After all, that is what Anbernel is known for."

She took her time selecting the best clock for the professor as Adrian and I browsed the other wares, which ranged from little trinkets to large metallic statues and machines. Adrian was more interested in the books the shop had to offer. He ended up purchasing a few. When Iris finally bought a clock, we checked our watches.

It was almost time for the meeting.