Bill wins over Adele's church group with his vivid recollections from the Civil War; Sam reveals his feelings to Sookie; Jason gives vampire blood another shot with the help of Lafayette, and hurts Tara in the process.

A shocking murder outside Merlotte's has Bon Temps reeling. Meanwhile, Sookie's relationship with Bill is tested when she learns about Jessica, and of his involvement in her uncle's death. Sam recalls a shape-shifting encounter he had with Maryann as a 17-year-old. Jason gets a sudden windfall that allows him to pay for a leadership retreat with the Fellowship of the Sun. Two adversaries find themselves sharing a mysterious dungeon and, possibly, the same fate.

With the crisis in Bon Temps careening out of control, Bill seeks out the advice of Sophie-Anne, the Vampire Queen of Louisiana, but must exercise patience before she gives him critical information. Meanwhile, Sookie and Lafayette find that protecting Tara from herself is more difficult than they anticipated; a desperate Sam turns to an unlikely source for assistance; and Jessica tests Hoyt’s allegiance to Maxine.

Sookie turns to Eric for help finding Bill; Andy urges Jason to stay the course; Sam reconnects with his past; Tara seeks refuge from her grief.

Bill wants to earn back Sookie's trust but once again brings her close to danger. Eric tempts Russell with "ultimate vampire dream". Jason tries to comprehend what he's learned about Crystal. Sam alienates everyone but Tara. Jessica and Hoyt take their romance up a notch. Lafayette struggles with new demons.

Sookie nurtures Eric; Bill gets involved personally in the necromancy crisis; Pam takes the veil; Sam becomes Tommy's accomplice; Arlene and Terry look to religion to solve their problem; Jesus and Lafayette head to Mexico to harness a shaman's power; Jason convalesces.

Bill and Marnie get ready for an open confrontation. The King secures the loyalty of Sookie and Eric. Jason is conflicted emotionally. A spirit manipulates Lafayette for its own purposes. Sam must deal with Marcus who just happens to be Luna's ex.

Sookie and Lafayette clean up the mess. Bill and Eric have a visit from the Vampire authority. Sam and Alcide come to terms with an angry pack.