Part One: The Finding; The Walker on the Old Way Summary

Will returns on the bus from Christmas shopping for his family. He decides to take the shortcut home through Tramps' Alley, lured by the undisturbed snow. He mischievously decides to light a branch on the path with his newly discovered power. The branch burns, but it does not go out. Will begins to fear this unusual fire he has started, when The Walker grabs him from behind. The Walker does not trust Will. In their struggle, Will commands The Walker to give him the second sign. The Walker is tired from carrying the burden, but he does not want to give it to the wrong person. Will insists that The Walker give him the sign or risk disobeying the Old Ones and carrying the sign...