On the planet Strand, magic works, but not in the presence of machines. Jarrod Courtak, Mage of Paladine, is the savior of his people, thanks to his ability to communicate with the rare and powerful race of unicorns that sometimes visit his world. In a series of great wars against the weapons of the mysterious Outlanders, Jarrod and the unicorns played a crucial role. But the humans of Strand were unified only against the common inhuman enemy. Now, following the defeat of the Outlanders, the nations of Strand contend for rule. The more than slightly mad Emperor Varodias of Umbria and his dire henchman, Malum of Quern, have plotted world conquest, and now they declare war on the Discipline of Magic. Only the race of unicorns can prevent the mages' helplessness in the face of the war machines of Umbria.