An alien artefact has been found in low earth orbit by Dr. Evelyn Slater and Yuri Bulgakov. Secrecy immediately descends upon the project. Only a few select individuals know the true nature of what has been found. Evelyn and Yuri's mission changes and they bring the alien artefact back to the orbit of the International Space Station. The Scaffy Wagon, as their space junk collection vessel is affectionately known, returns to its original débris disposal duties until Evelyn's plan for a Cluster laboratory becomes a reality. It comprises three spheres, one for the artefact, one as a lab and one for living quarters. Evelyn and Yuri's return to Earth. Evelyn is offered the post of director of Goonhilly in charge of teams of hackers and linguists. She is due to start her new job on 7th January 2024 and we pick up the story just prior to Christmas 2023. Before the festivities however, there is a prestigious visit to Number Ten Downing Street, the Prime Minister's residence.
