Michael P Gardner

A face from John's past comes to Salem, and Mary's plans nearly come apart when she loses control of Mercy Lewis. Elsewhere, Mary's most trusted ally, Tituba, is forced to deceive John to eliminate a threat that endangers her mistress.

Following the first death of the Grand Rite, Mary intends to sacrifice another innocent. Meanwhile, John works with Cotton Mather and Issac Walton to try to locate and stop the witches.

When Magistrate Hale discovers that it was Isaac who broke the witches circle, it's up to John to save him. A power struggle arises within the hive, forcing Mary to assert her authority with potentially deadly consequences.

Alden finds himself the target of fresh accusations; Anne finally discovers the truth about her father.

Following the discovery of the Malum, John acquires the help of Cotton to find out more about the Grand Rite. Mary tries to regain control of Mercy, and Tituba is tasked by the hive to discover the secret of John Alden that he has killed to keep.

Increase gets closer to understanding who really runs things in Salem; Anne finds herself in danger while probing a mystery, and Alden may be the only one who can save her.