In the wake of Mercy’s brutal act of violence, Mary works to rally the citizenry of Salem against her rebellious, wayward former protégé, and to put an end to the willful Witch’s uprising. Despite the unwanted distraction, Mary moves forward in her bid to complete her Hive’s dark task with the promise that her eventual success will result in a permanent reunion with her son. As Dr. Wainwright looks for clues to cure the growing plague, his methods create concern for the Selectmen. While his only hope seems to be the discovery of the pox-ravaged Isaac, who, beyond all expectations, clings to life, the possibility of his success creates additional concern for Mary and Tituba. Meanwhile, John Alden prepares for an epic confrontation still to come, and has a telling encounter with an unexpected ally; Mary’s son begins to show another, unsettling side of his nature; and Anne Hale – ripe with her new and as-of-yet uncontrollable powers – embarks on an unforeseen journey… but discovers more than she bargained for.