In modern-day Melbourne, Penny sinks into depression after breaking her ankle and losing her girlfriend. Her housemate Rafi comforts her by telling a story inspired by the 1001 Nights. Rafi narrates the adventures of Adiba, a scribe's daughter fleeing from an unwelcome suitor; Adiba sets out to rescue a kidnapped princess from the City of Jinn armed only with her wits and a pen. But as Adiba's rescue of Princess Makaarim becomes a courtship, the friendship between Rafi and Penny heats up.