The story takes place in a world where magic is a real and powerful force, and the forces of good and evil are not as clear-cut as they seem. The protagonist, Mal, is a young woman with a troubled past and a penchant for getting into trouble. She's a skilled thief and con artist, but her life takes a dramatic turn when she's approached by a mysterious figure with a proposal: Mal will be granted a long and prosperous life, free from hardship and suffering, in exchange for dedicating herself to the service of evil.