The grass people have forgotten how to listen and follow the Way; the elves and fairies have disappeared from the tall prairie grasses. Their once idyllic existence is now fraught with danger. They must evade or defeat wildbeasts, the mower, predators, and four-legged shadows. It is also rumoured that tall men exist and may arrive soon. Dyra leads his village with great courage while some grass people await the return of their spiritual leader, Dokrimalitzla, and the restoration of magic. Meanwhile Brecort, the mayor of a nearby cave city, plots his conquest of all the villages. He sends an emissary with propaganda to convince them that only he can save them with his guns, guard towers and walls.