Pages 1-45 Summary

Cowled in black, Death keeps track of a roomful of hourglasses, one for every living person on Discworld. Death gazes towards the Ramtops, sees a boy running, and says, YES. Brothers Lezek and Hamesh discuss Lezek's youngest son, Mort, an awkward, well-intentioned, but unpromising youth, and decide he should be apprenticed to a trade. Lezek takes Mort to Sheepridge and tells him to make a good impression. At 11:45 PM, as the only one not chosen, Mort feels cold and ashamed. A great white horse appears, ridden by a tall figure wrapped in black. The rider trips and Mort helps the skeleton to its feet, asks if he is Death, and begs him not to take Lezek. Death asks to apprentice boy and Lezek gives permission. Death cleans up after people get killed by whatever manner. Lezek explains to Mort this may...