The story revolves around intersecting events involving the oil industry and its global implications. Bob Barnes is a veteran CIA operative who is in the midst of an assignment in the Middle East. As he gets drawn into a complex web of espionage and political intrigue, he becomes disillusioned with his role. Concurrently, Bryan Woodman is an energy analyst who seizes a lucrative opportunity when his career takes a drastic turn after a tragic incident involving the family of a Gulf state emir. His newfound position offers both great financial rewards and ethical quandaries as he navigates the treacherous waters of the oil trade.

In parallel, corporate lawyer Bennett Holiday is tasked with facilitating a high-stakes merger between two giant oil companies, while simultaneously uncovering potentially criminal activities within the industry. As each character's story unfolds, the plot reveals the interconnectedness of various geopolitical and economic forces at play. The narrative intricately weaves through themes of power, corruption, and loyalty, highlighting how deeply the global oil industry impacts individual lives and international relations. The protagonists' paths inevitably converge, setting the stage for an intense confrontation that brings the hidden consequences of their actions to light.