As Josh Carver undergoes his hallucinogenic transformation via the drug FX7 to some superhuman status, things are not proceeding in the usual fashion. While this doesn't bother the project leader Carrick Masterson, it leaves Front Line member Operator feeling like the boy's selection was a mistake. As she leaves the team headquarters disgusted, she falls victim to a death trap. We learn of the Chinese and Russians' vendetta against the super group, and of the terrible weapon that they bring to bear, the flesh-dissolving fluid, Disgel. Meanwhile, Josh awakes from his transformation process, but all is not well, as his body begins to shed hair and skin.