Pedro Cortez, known as Tafichán, a resident of the Perene jungles, is on the run from justice, accused of a crime he committed in self-defense to protect a child. Tafichán is married to Rosa, a woman of Chinese descent, with whom he has a young son. Juan Tremolada, Tafichán's godfather, warns him that a group of the governor's men are searching for him. In a bar, Tafichán encounters Maldonado, the governor's son. They argue and engage in a musical duel, reciting aggressive and offensive verses. They fight, and Maldonado falls wounded to the ground. The governor learns of Tafichán's hiding place and captures him. Tafichán is brought before the governor, who challenges him to a musical contest of bitter and biting rhymes. Maldonado shoots at Tafichán, who is hit in the arm, but returns fire and escapes in the ensuing chaos.
