For Ratrigues, there had to be a much better way to start the day than with an awakening one could only describe as rude-what with unexpected visitors landing a spacecraft right next to his home. Even so, what this unwelcome introduction to his early morning heralds is, he feels, quite worth getting up for. He learns that he's part of a select group of friends recruited-somewhat against their will, it must be said-into a whirlwind adventure to the far reaches of outer space. Their destination is the mysterious and bizarre solar system known as Roach 379, where the ubiquitous organisation known as Aye-Aye originated. Mandrake, the first rodent to be introduced into this clandestine society of roaches, has to go on a pilgrimage. Along with some friends selected for moral support, he is also off to this very solar system. Little does he know that there is a far more important reason for his voyage. The fate of all cockroaches throughout the universe hangs in the balance. What lies at the root of this disturbing calamity? Can Mandrake, the head of the druidic Musculus Medicinale save them?