ZACHARIAS SWANWICK, twenty-one years old and living in 19th century Bristol, England, has discovered a young man named Wyndor from another world. In this world of Erala, starlit beings called Velans dwell. Drawn to the mystery, Zacharias decides to help Wyndor find a Velan object that can return him to Erala. Without it, Wyndor is slowly dying.

This object belongs to a group of Chinese spiritual adepts called the Lung Hsieh, who have come to Bristol to retrieve it. The presence of this object has also drawn Dragon Kings to Bristol. Although these misty spirits are invisible, they emanate a chilling presence in their wake and have been gaining strength.

Throughout his adventures with Wyndor, Zacharias learns about the powers inherent in other worlds and dreams, and he comes to make a decision that will change his life forever.