Detective Patton and his LAPD partner, Charlie Holland, fly to Washington DC where a killer has demanded their attention. The investigation is further complicated when a second killer strikes, seemingly competing with the first. Five years ago, Mayor Cyprian Hague set up Viper - a zero-tolerance surveillance unit to crack down on crime in Los Angeles. Viper were then recruited by Senator Conrad Conway to carry out covert missions for the Animi - a group of politicians, movers and shakers who will stop at nothing to get what they want. One member plans to use Viper for one final mission - A game Detective Patton has no choice but to play.