Death happens to everyone. He presented Mort with a job offer when he arrived. Death is the Discworld's version of the Grim Reaper, a skeleton in black robes holding a scythe who leads souls to the hereafter. He also like cats and finds people to be endlessly puzzling. Death will soon be itching to enjoy the best that humanity has to offer, but in order to do so, he will need to employ some aid. Mort is unable to decline the offer. He will receive free lodging and use of the company horse as Death's apprentice, and dying is optional. It's a dream job, but Mort realises that his employer can ruin his love life when he falls in love with Death's daughter, Ysabell.