Miryem is a young Jewish woman living in a no-name town in the country of Lithvas. When her father’s inability to collect on his loans risks her mother’s life, Miryem’s strength of will carries her into a prosperous career as a moneylender. Deriving pride from her shrewd business acumen and quick success, she boasts that she can turn silver into gold, a claim that changes the course of countless lives.

For all that she claims to have hardened herself against the compassion used as a weapon against moneylenders—and Jews—for centuries, Miryem displays empathy even when it is inconvenient. She is principled and fair, believing in balanced books, and is unwilling to leave her debts unpaid or injure innocent parties.

The buxom blonde daughter of an alcoholic farmer, Wanda has few prospects in life beyond marriage and inevitable death in childbirth. Having only felt love from her mother, she sees no reason to give it to anyone else, least of all her remaining brothers. Wanda rejoices when Miryem takes her into her service to pay off her father’s debt since the work keeps her safe from forced marriage. The hardworking servant learns what she calls magic—mathematics and writing—and is soon able to assist Miryem in the collections.