A Measure of Order

I surveyed the perimeter of the desk and encountered an intolerable irregularity: a heavy brass mechanical clock whose rhythmic ticking had ceased. Chaos cannot be permitted within my domain. Stepping forward, I gripped its ornate winding key with both gauntlets and applied firm, calculated torque until the internal spring yielded under my command. The pendulum swung, delivering a steady, resonant cadence. Proper discipline has been restored to this chamber's time.