In the 21st century, the great powers have agreed to disarm on Earth and relocate all weapon arsenals to the Moon, in sectors separated by neutral zones. Following the principle of natural evolution of organic beings, a self-optimization of weapon systems is taking place on the Moon, completely autonomously. No one on Earth knows what is really happening on the Moon, or which side may have gained an advantage; the doctrine of total ignorance is strictly upheld. Automatic reconnaissance probes disappear without a trace. It is time for Ijon Tichy, Lem's tireless space traveler, who never hesitates when it comes to saving humanity, to check on things as an agent of the Lunar Agency on the Moon. Unfortunately, he suffers a lobotomy; his brain is split into two parts, leading to grotesque consequences for him.