twenty-four o'clock
For I suppose they will both chop at the same time , and I have but one neck . '' `` Wait and see , '' answered the two Ki , sighing deeply and rubbing their red noses thoughtfully . `` Oh , I 'll wait , '' answered the boy ; `` but as for seeing them cut off my head , I refuse ; for I intend to shut my eyes . '' So they sat in their rooms or walked in the gardens , yawning and waiting , until one day , just as the two clocks on the wall were striking twenty-four o'clock , the door opened and to their surprise one of the High Ki twins walked in upon them . She was as sweet and fair to look upon as when she occupied one of the beautiful thrones , but at first no one could tell which of the High Ki she was -- their friend or their enemy . Even the Ki were puzzled and anxious , until the girl said : `` My other half and I have completely separated , for we have agreed to disagree for all time . And she has gone to ask the Ki-Ki to assist her , for war is declared between us .