Before leaving his post, John Stafford must complete an investigation into corruption in the Met. ACC Anne Stewart, keen for promotion to Stafford's old position, finds herself torn when a gunman unleashes terror in Burthorpe; she deals with the danger as a priority, and is late for the all-important interview. Meanwhile, Stafford meets prime contender Alan Cade.

Stafford finds an unpected ally in Cade, who assists in the corruption investigation and also impresses Rosalind Maxwell, Chair of the Police Authroity. Maxwell is charmed by the debonair officer, while fellow contender Anne has consistently failed to make a good impression; her prospects for promotion look bleak.

Alan Cade, taking up duty as Eastland's new Chief Constable, is immediately called upon to deal with a major incident: three ex-workers have hijacked an offshore exploration rig in order to highlight inadequate work and safety conditions. Pressure mounts on Cade to resolve the situation, and Anne might be just the person he needs...

Cade adopts a highly risky strategy in an attempt to take down local drug barons.

Following the death of an informant, criticism over the handling of the rig hijack and the acquisition of a new police command vehicle amid budget cuts, Cade is under mounting pressure. Determined not to give up, he looks to Anne Stewart for assistance.