The novel is written from the perspective of a colonel of the Department of Galactic Intelligence, traveling in hyperspace to an unknown point. Colonel Shilov records the story of his life, starting in 2038. The recording is carried out in a capsule equipped with a “Creative Module” (TM), which processes the text, giving it the form of a novel. Shilov is immortal, rich and chose a job in the Department because it promises new impressions and thrills. Cradoc, a red-haired, winged animal that can breathe fire, helps him explore the expanses of the galaxy. The colonel talks about how he acquired his wealth, his position, and why he managed to remain young and healthy, despite the fact that he had long celebrated his three hundredth birthday.