An Intertect security chief apparently has been killed while driving. At almost the same time, an explosion at an Intertect client has killed a technician and destroyed a new laser device. Mannix suddenly is thrust into the case while Intertect chief Wickersham begins acting erratically, the side effect of medication for an infection. Mannix concludes that the Intertect security man may have sold out, along with somebody at the client. Mannix later finds that the Intertect security man is still alive. Mannix, though, isn't having an easy time. The Intertect chief's behavior turns worse and he gets into a brutal fight with Mannix. Afterward, an injured Mannix confronts a woman who was having an affair with the Intertect security man. She drugs him and Mannix is on the verge of falling into unconsciousness as someone is coming to the woman's apartment.
—Bill Koenig