Discovery of a Signal: An intercepted signal coming from the Moon is a classic, high-stakes science fiction trigger, a compelling event that triggers this (fictional) mission to the Moon.

The NASA/ESA angle: This is an ambiguous signal—perhaps complex, repeating patterns similar to the fictional "DNA-style" signals sometimes theorized in other contexts, that are only initially picked up by a deep-space network or a specific lunar-observing mission. The ambiguity necessitates a manned mission to investigate.

HAL and the ARK's Role: Our idea of HAL and the ARK being the only entities with the data and computing power to decode or properly survey the signal's source is cinematic gold. This creates a reliance on the specialized crew and technology, justifying their central role in the mission.

Evidence of Life: The discovery of evidence of other life on the Moon is a monumental event that would instantly trigger a high-priority mission.

The Nature of the Find: This might not be a living organism, but a biosignature—perhaps an unexpected concentration of organic molecules, fossils in an ice sample from a permanently shadowed crater, or a unique biological byproduct found by a robotic lander or rover (like the kind used in current Mars or icy moon exploration proposals). All of these possibilities are for John Storm to discover and interpret.

HAL and the ARK's Role: If the discovery is a subtle anomaly in vast datasets (e.g., spectral analysis of lunar dust or ice), the advanced data processing capabilities of HAL and the ARK would be crucial for initial identification and later, for guiding the human investigation on the lunar surface. This adds a layer of mystery and technical necessity.

Musket Meloni is an investor in many high tech space technologies. He'd like to get his hands on the CyberCore Genetica, and most of all the ARK. He is aware of John Storm, after his exploits on the high seas, and the saving of Kulo-Luna, the humpback whale that defied whaling pirates. Through his CIA contacts, he knows about the Replivator, and is a fan of the ancient Egyptian and Mayan civilizations, and pyramids, including Cleopatra Philopator VII, as the living link to those eras.

Musket becomes the world's first trillionaire, by investing in technology. He is not a fan of the present political system on planet earth. One very good reason for investing in juicy tech with the potential for terraforming and colonization of other planets.

He keeps tabs of self-made technology billionaire Anya Sharma, kicking himself for not investing in her Moon mission, being an advocate of space exploration.

CAST 0F CHARACTERS

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This is a work of fiction, the characters are the product of the authors imagination, except where real or historical persons are included

But where that may be so, the thoughts and actions of those persons is fictional and not those of any historical or real person.