After his arrest, Chapo attempts to use his usual tactics of bribery to secure a comfortable life behind bars. However, he receives a "rude awakening" when the prison guards refuse his money and instead respond with a violent thrashing. Key events include:
Meanwhile, Conrado "Don Sol" Sol continues to negotiate Chapo’s legal status, promising a transfer to a better prison if Chapo ratifies a specific version of the Cardinal’s death—a promise Don Sol does not immediately fulfill. Where to Watch
Chapo manages a small win by helping a guard pay for his daughter’s medical expenses. In return, the guard smuggles in sleeping pills for Chapo and his fellow inmates to help them cope with the prison's brutal conditions.
The truce ends when the pills are discovered on another prisoner, Ruben. Ruben is severely punished in "Los Acolchonados" and returns in such a broken state that he attempts suicide, leading the guard to officially end his pact with Chapo.
Chapo's attempts to corrupt the custodians fail, leading to physical abuse and severe disciplinary action.