King Balderone, ruler off the Goblins’ world, is miserable. The orycterope Riri, the king’s favourite pet, has suddenly run away. Three diminutive but clever detectives Stucco, who can push things, Tchop, who manages the inventory, and Purlius, caster of spells, receive a Royal order from their King. Their mission is to find Riri, and prove to King Balderone that Riri is happier now than when he was living with the King.