There is a war between human cultures; one is ultra religious but fanatical in death and destruction of the other culture, whose focus doesn't include religion but technology that must be constantly improved upon for their very survival. There are also mysterious aliens who are also a force to be reckoned with and who are generally misunderstood. Add to the mix a young man of superior abilities above those added to his person by technology who is a warrior, combat pilot and eventually far, far more. Another great tale by a master author.