In 1821, Don Diego de la Vega becomes mayor of Los Angeles in order to modernize the city. However, Los Angeles gets into financial difficulties due to the greed of local businessman Don Emmanuel and Diego's power as mayor is not enough to combat these grievances. But Diego is living a double life: As Zorro, he hasn't used his identity for 20 years; but now he has no choice: for the greater good, he must return as Zorro. However, he has difficulty reconciling his dual identity as Zorro and as mayor, which puts a strain on his marriage to his wife Gabriella, who knows nothing of his secret.