The action, which takes place between the years 1861 - 1862, develops in Yautepec , Morelos , where the estates of Cocoyoc, Atlihuayán and San Carlos were located, all dedicated to the cultivation of sugar cane. The population of the area was ravaged by bands of outlaws who inhabited the region. Manuela lives with her widowed mother and is courted by Nicholas, who despises his Indian appearance. Zarco is lover, commander of a group of bandits who finally flees. When Manuela Xochimancas comes to live, where the robbers took refuge, faces the degrading environment surrounding her beloved and simultaneously discover other facets of it, so regrets having fled. When Zarco learns of the situation and understand that Manuela is interested in Nicholas, trafficking rudely and decides to kill Nicholas.