Bill, a crippled war veteran, believes his future is either amputation of his right leg or a wheelchair--that is, until Dr. John Theopoulos contacts him. The doctor offers a new medical breakthrough to repair his spinal nerves, tendons, and muscles, but the doctor wants something in return. As he explains, he and his assistant George are from a different plane of existence, one in which advanced technology, especially electronics, won't work but the Art and Craft--that is, magic--does.

The doctor desperately needs a military person from the "technological" plane to protect his protege, Aemilia, for a year. Bill, who learned Greek from his grandparents, grew up in the American West, rode horses from the time he could walk, hunted with a bow, and was on West Point's fencing team. All of this fits perfectly with what the doctor needs.

After some hesitation, Bill agrees and is transported to the world of New Rome. This place is one of political maneuverings, backstabbing, and open warfare, one in which he needs friends and allies as well as luck to survive.