Tensions flare as the camp faces an uncertain future. Al Swearengen taunts Seth Bullock over his relationship with Alma Garret, and the resulting confrontation between sheriff and criminal turns violent. Joanie Stubbs and Cy Tolliver await the arrival of some fancy new whores on the next stagecoach.

Alma and an increasingly self-destructive Bullock face an abrupt decision on their future. At the Gem, while Swearengen readies for another showdown with Bullock, infighting between Silas Adams and Dan Dority yields more feed for Wu's pigs.

Francis Wolcott, chief scout for a powerful mining operation, arrives to shake up the status quo - beginning with Cy Tolliver. Swearengen's lackeys fret as he refuses visitors and medical attention. Joanie's new partner, Maddie, reveals she's also running a game as their new brothel.

Doc contemplates a procedure that could cure Swearengen - or kill him. Bullock attempts to settle into domesticity, while Sol gets a new student bookkeeper - Trixie. Alma cuts ties with Sofia's tutor, Miss Isringhausen. Joanie and Maddie argue over the business.

Swearengen is on the mend as Alma begins to take ill - mostly in the mornings. Cy is suspicious of Joanie and Maddie's operation, and makes an unexpected discovery about George Hearst's agent, Wolcott. Bullock attempts to control an outlaw mob and protect the Commissioner.

Alma proposes opening a bank with the help of Sol Star. A new schoolteacher arrives in town, much to Merrick's delight. Much to Wu's dismay, new Chinese whores arrive. Wolcott's inner demons wreak havoc on Joanie's whorehouse, testing his alliance with Cy.

Joanie discovers what happened at the Chez Ami and confides in Charlie Utter. Swearengen meets with Alma regarding Miss Isringhausen's allegations...and her connection to the Pinkertons. The town leaders convene to discuss pressing issues, but neglect to invite E.B., the mayor.

Wolcott offers on the claim of two ornery brothers, and reports to Hearst on their progress overall. Miss Isgringhausen strikes a deal with Swearengen, who discusses his options with a friend in a small box. Alma receives very different proposals from both Mrs. Bullock and Ellsworth.

Bullock makes a connection with his son. Swearengen, who has entrusted E.B. to spy on the new telegraph operator, stokes rumors of an annexation of the camp and amends his agreement with Miss Isgringhausen. Cy aims to unburden a troubled man of his bloodstained money.

When Doc delivers a dire prognosis, one family suffers and the entire camp stands vigil. Merrick avails some private information to Swearengen, who enlists Star and Adams to help con the newly returned Commissioner Jarry. Andy, a former Deadwood pariah, offers himself as the camp's new minister.

Death in the camp spooks the superstitious, and the impending funeral causes much sorrow. Cy is convinced that Andy is back in town to run a game. Wu asks Swearengen to back him against the "San Francisco cocksucker". Bullock encourages his wife to stay in Deadwood.

A marriage occurs against a backdrop of murder and negotiations for elections and the camp.