Detective Murdoch finds that the man behind a flying machine that crashes in Toronto is none other than his old nemesis, James Pendrick. He learns that Pendrick is hoping to win a $1 million prize for the first controlled flight. A body is found in the rubble of the crash but someone is clearly out to steal his invention. Murdoch also has to deal with Ottawa-based spymaster Terence Meyers who says it's all a national security matter. Meanwhile, Julia returns from Vienna intent on practicing psychiatry. She's also hoping to have her marriage to D'Arcy annulled.
Gordon visits Island Park, ID, to help rescue the stunning Angler's Lodge. The owner, who built the lodge with his own hands, has lost his passion after a family tragedy and it has almost cost him his business.