The first step into a new world is never gentle. Ryoku Dragontalen crossed into the spirit realm for one reason: to find his lost sister. As one of the rare few able to travel between the world of the living and the realms of spirits, Ryoku is labeled a Defender. But titles mean little when he has no training, no guide, and no idea what awaits beyond his first footsteps. With friends like the honorable Will Ramun and the scathing Sira Jessura at his side, Ryoku follows the only lead he has: Chris Olestine, someone who claims to know her whereabouts. But every world brings new dangers, new allies, and questions Ryoku may not be ready to answer. Could his sister truly be waiting somewhere in the spirit realm, or has Ryoku stepped into a story far larger than his own?