The protagonist, Altha, is forcibly taken from the gaol (jail) and walked through the village square, feeling shame under the gaze of the villagers.
Passing the bakers' stall prompts memories of Altha nursing a sick child and uncertainty about the villagers' support, including thoughts of her friend Grace.
She is placed in a cart with a starved mule and given water and stale bread, which she vomits back up.
During the journey, Altha reflects on childhood memories related to a nearby beck (stream) and recalls her mother and a crow.
Overcome by memories and sensations, she eventually loses consciousness and fades in and out until they reach Lancaster.
Lancaster overwhelms Altha with its unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells, including the hustle and bustle of throngs of people.
Arriving at a large stone building, which she recognizes as the place for the assizes (legal proceedings), Altha is taken inside.
The courtroom contrasts sharply with the natural beauty she knows; it intimidates her with its grandeur and sunlight shining on stone pillars.
Altha observes the two judges, who seem unhuman in their attire, and a jury of twelve men, one of which looks at her with what may be pity.
The prosecuting magistrate, marked by pox scars, represents an imposing figure across from her with cold, pale blue eyes.
When charged with witchcraft and the murder of John Milburn, Altha pleads not guilty with a clear voice despite her fear and the tension in the courtroom.