Tales about the specter of the night known as the Prairie Man were told to frighten children, but one day those tales nearly led to a tragic accident for Temple Kennedy. His friend Hank Pierce saved his life, Temple vowed that one day he would return the favor.

Fifteen years later the two friends grew up to lead different lives: Hank is a respected citizen while Temple is as an outlaw. But, when Hank was wrongly accused of murder, Temple is given a chance for redemption. He vows to save Hank or die in the attempt.

However, in seeking to unmask the real culprit his investigation leads to a man who isn't even supposed to exist: the Prairie Man.