Thom goes to the bookstore and bumps into Athan, who has also purchased the book Thom is seeking. Thom meets the author, Harris, and the two hit it off. Frankie later convinces Thom to go back to visit Harris that night and see if Harris has any clue as to where the Ring of Erebus might be hidden. He also learns that the ring was buried 200 years ago with the disembodied head of the sorcerer, Carter Vane. The legend says that whoever would protect Vane's head would receive one wish… a wish that would last only for as long as that person possessed and protected Vane's head!