An innocent observation by a close friend sets off a dramatic chain of events for investigative journalist Julie-Anne Granger.

Australian Federal Police detective Jack Wagner is still reeling from his unsuccessful attempt to snare a high-profile drug kingpin. When an Australian Maritime Safety Authority analyst identifies unusual navigational behaviour of a Chinese cargo ship near Magnetic Island, it fortuitously affords Jack a second opportunity to go after his nemesis.

With the Coronavirus lockdown easing, highly regarded Sydney Daily News investigative journalist, Julie-Anne Granger, is just itching to launch into her next investigation. Not knowing where her next lead will come from, a conversation with a friend places her on a collision course with Jack.

The Chinese Consul General to New South Wales is appalled at the withdrawal of the Confucious Institute from the state's secondary schools and colleges. With the state government refusing to overturn their decision, the Consul General takes matters into his own hands. A shadowy, newly promoted Consular emissary is enlisted to rectify the situation.

After a long lockdown-induced hiatus, social justice lawyer Melissa Wu invites Julie-Anne to dinner, leading to a surprising turn of events, and unforeseen, dramatic consequences for both.