Detective Joe Garvey is called to investigate a mysterious case: a ballerina has been murdered on stage during a performance, without any signs of struggle. At her home, Garvey meets her precocious 14-year-old sister, Tinsel, who is uncooperative. He arranges to have her sent to an orphanage, but after an attack on her, he takes her under his protection. Soon, both attract the attention of a secret organization.