Álava, 19th century. Towards the end of the Third Carlist War, several women are found strangled to death on the outskirts of Vitoria. Ángela Berrosteguieta, sister of one of the victims, arrives seeking justice, determined to prove that Juan Díaz de Garayo, an illiterate farmer, is responsible for the crimes. Meanwhile, Pío Pinedo, head of the constabulary, must contend with the lack of resources in times of war and pressure from the authorities, who prefer to keep the rising wave of murders under wrap.