In the wake of the Grand Rite – merely the first phase of the Hive’s dark undertaking – a horrendous plague sweeps through Salem. Tensions escalate between Tituba and Mary, who tries to enjoy what limited time she is allowed to spend with her young, recently returned son. Mary confronts Mercy Lewis in a bid to strike a bargain with the upstart Witch, but Mercy already has diabolical plans of her own in play. As Anne Hale begins to comprehend the nature of her own true power, she is extended an offer that may provide her some clarity and relief. Meanwhile , as Mary attempts to exert her mortal influence over the citizenry of Salem, she makes the acquaintance of an intriguing true man of science, Dr. Samuel Wainwright, who may threaten her cause. Back in Boston, a haunted Cotton Mather must answer for his failure in Salem; and Mary learns John Alden’s fate… . or so she thinks.