The Perfect Alibi

Previously

…They gestured to the Heartstone. “This is no longer just a treasure hunt, Alex. It is a responsibility. A burden, perhaps. But one that you have unwittingly taken upon yourself.” The Watcher then turned and melted back into the shadows from which they had emerged, leaving us alone with the pulsating obsidian box and the chilling knowledge that our adventure had just taken a very dark, very dangerous turn. The thrill of the chase was still there, a faint ember glowing in my chest, but now it was mingled with a profound sense of unease. The game had changed, and the stakes were higher than I had ever imagined.