Chapter 13 - Chapter 13: The Shadow Agency

Luna's words hung in the air like a promise of salvation, and Alex felt his heart swell with excitement. Maybe, just maybe, they could finally break free from the Timekeepers' grasp.

"But how do we contact them?" Master Clockmaker asked, his voice practical as always.

Luna hesitated for a moment before answering. "I have a contact within the Shadow Agency," she said slowly. "Her name is Nova, and I'm supposed to meet her at an abandoned clock tower on the outskirts of the city."

Alex felt a surge of curiosity as he listened to Luna's words. He had always been fascinated by the idea of secret organizations working behind the scenes.

"When do we go?" Master Clockmaker asked, his voice firm but practical.

Luna glanced around the chamber nervously before answering. "We should leave now," she said quickly. "Adair will probably send someone to try and stop us."

As they made their way out of the Timekeepers' headquarters, Alex felt a sense of excitement building inside him. He had never felt more alive than he did right now.

The three of them moved swiftly through the winding streets of the city, avoiding detection by the Timekeepers' agents at every turn. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, they reached the abandoned clock tower on the outskirts of town.

Luna led the way up a rickety staircase to the top floor, where Nova was waiting for them. She was a young woman with short, spiky hair and piercing green eyes. She looked like she belonged in a high-tech lab rather than an ancient clock tower.

"Welcome," Nova said, her voice warm and friendly. "I'm glad you made it."

Luna smiled nervously before introducing Master Clockmaker and Alex to Nova. As they spoke, Alex couldn't help but notice the way Nova's eyes seemed to dance with excitement whenever she talked about the Shadow Agency.

"So," Nova said finally, turning to face them all. "You want to know how we can stop the Timekeepers?"

Master Clockmaker nodded slowly. "Yes. We need your help."

Nova smiled, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, I think we can do better than that," she said. "I think we can give you a choice."

Alex felt a surge of excitement as he listened to Nova's words. What kind of choice could the Shadow Agency possibly offer?

"We have a way for you to escape the Timekeepers' clutches once and for all," Nova said slowly. "But it comes with a price."

Master Clockmaker's expression turned thoughtful as he considered Nova's words.

"What is it?" Alex asked, his heart pounding in anticipation.

Nova smiled, her eyes glinting with mischief. "You'll see," she said. "But trust me, it'll be worth it..."