Cusi, a young boy living in a remote, hidden valley with his guardian Chuto, discovers a family in a distant valley below. He is astonished to see them, because he has never seen other people before. Excited by this discovery, Cusi shares it with Chuto, who confirms that they are indeed seeing people for the first time. Their isolated world is surrounded by towering mountains, with only two narrow openings connecting them to the outside.

One day, a wandering minstrel arrives, bringing with him the music of the Inca, which captivates Cusi and even captures the attention of the llamas. The minstrel comments on Cusi’s golden earplugs, hinting at a possible royal lineage, which both intrigues and confuses Cusi.

Chuto then proposes that they embark on a journey to the Salt Pits. He plans to leave the minstrel in charge of their llamas during their absence. Although initially reluctant due to his attachment to the llamas and his familiar surroundings, Cusi eventually warms to the idea.

Cusi wakes up to the peaceful humming of llamas and recalls the previous night when