A deep-cover operative named Martin Odum, who has an uncanny ability to transform himself into a different person for each job. But his own identity comes into question when a mysterious stranger suggests that Martin isn't who he thinks he is.
Martin, Crystal and Troy Buchannan go undercover when a chemistry teacher and his family are kidnapped. The case takes on urgency when it's feared the kidnappers will use the teacher to manufacture a deadly gas.
Martin assumes the legend of Dante Auerbach, an international arms dealer known as the "Lord of War," in order to track the sale of VX gas and rescue kidnapped chemist Richard Hubbard. He makes contact with beautiful arms dealer Ana Paulanos, the right hand of a mysterious Chechen mobster known as "The Colonel." Martin develops a romantic entanglement with Ana as he gains The Colonel's trust - but does he trust him enough to trade him all the VX gas?
Martin gets the Colonel and Ana Paulanos captured after purchasing VX gas from them. One of the Colonel's followers discharges VX gas on a crowded bus and guarantees to strike again if the Colonel and Ana aren't freed.
Amid concerns raised by the FBI psychiatrist, Martin is required to take time off. Instead he continues his off-book operation to uncover his own identity. Under cover of a new legend he tracks down McComb's contacts in Texas.