Nick Condon, an American journalist in Tokyo, is the editor of an English-language newspaper. He uncovers a secret Japanese plan concocted by the government to conquer and dominate Asia and then the world, known as the Tanaka Memorial. When Nick writes a story about this plan, it puts him at odds with both the Japanese government and his own newspaper's management, who are wary of causing political tension. Amid the burgeoning turmoil, he befriends Iris Hilliard, an enigmatic woman associated with the conspiracy. As Nick delves deeper into the investigation, he faces constant surveillance and intimidation from the Japanese secret police.

Nick's pursuit of the truth becomes increasingly dangerous. He witnesses the brutal suppression of dissent and finds himself increasingly isolated, unable to rely on friends or colleagues for help. Despite these challenges, his determination to expose the conspirators never wanes. With his life in jeopardy, he must navigate a web of deceit and betrayal, relying on his wit and resourcefulness to stay ahead of his enemies. The story builds towards a climactic series of confrontations, as Nick's efforts to alert the world to the impending threat bring him ever closer to a perilous showdown with those who would stop at nothing to silence him.