The Oakenbury Curse Part 4

When Odd found the clock, his hands outstretched in front of him, the pillar was rough and cold under his fingertips. His mother had told him that the clock was the colour of sand with four pillars on each side of its corners, but she hadn’t mentioned it hummed like a gong, too. What was that about?

Feeling along the surface, Odd’s hand found a small door.

Witless growled. Odd shushed him and placed his ear to the clock. Whatever was broken had to be on the inside….

A man’s voice came from behind him.

“You should be asleep like the rest of them, child.”

Odd whirled, his heart leaping. Even from a distance, the man smelt of sour apples.

“Sorry to disappoint.” Odd snapped.

The man laughed. “My goodness, you are bold.” A pause. Then: “My name is Kalis. I’m sure you’ve heard of me.”

“I’ve heard of you.” Odd said, then twisted towards the door. He didn’t fancy talking to an ancient wizard when all his answers lay inside the clock.

He grasped the door handle.

“Wait!” Kalis said. “I – I can give you a gift. Leave that clock alone, and I’ll grant you a spell. How would you like to be able to see?”

Odd froze in the cold doorway.

NEXT STOP: Sims Clock (stay safe and go to red phone boxes opposite), Part 5