Ethiopia, 1916: Gobeze is a timid, peace-loving, young man of 25; a brilliant student who dedicates his whole life to "Sem Ina Werq" (riddles with dual meaning). He is caught in bed with Aleme by Gonite, her husband and a wealthy old landlord. Following the old Ethiopian tradition, both men's clothes are bound together and the rivals set off on a long journey to the royal court to stand trial.