Calibrating the Chronometer

A rhythmic acoustic pulse drew my focus across the wooden surface. Navigating past a fallen graphite marker, I converged on a heavy brass alarm clock stationed near the desk edge. On its rear housing, a winged mechanical winding key protruded from the chassis. Bracing my boots against the desk grain, I locked my gauntlets around the key and applied deliberate rotational force. The internal coil yielded with a sharp, ratcheting click, quickening the rhythmic heartbeat within. Operational sector timekeeping has been successfully restored.