We start this story with the protagonist, Charles Rutherforn, lounging by the pool in a small resort town. This is not just any resort town, however. It is a "lunar frontier" town, full of danger and excitement. In truth, the only "danger and excitement" experienced by Charles was when the kitchen of his hotel had run out of Chanterelle mushrooms, but the town liked to maintain the image of a rough frontier. This image of a rough frontier was what had made the town of Fra Mauro into one of the larger tourist attractions on the moon, and the town wanted to keep it that way.

Just as Charles was about doze off in his very comfortable, "rugged lounge chair," he was rudely awaken to the sound of the Mexican Hat Dance. Darn vidphone, he thought. Why did I choose the Mexican Hat Dance anyways? It's a very fine song and all, but perhaps Beethoven's 9th Symphony would be better. Or maybe even the theme song from Gilligan's Island... Then it dawned on him that he should maybe answer the phone. He did so. He was not happy with the results.

"Hello, Charles," said the very perky face on the phone. It was Charles's Auntie Gertrude, the governor of the Nubium District. This province included frontier towns like Gasseni, New Cassini, New Tycho, and Fra Mauro, the very town he was trying to relax in right now. "I have the perfect opportunity for you," continued his Auntie Gertrude, "one that will get you out of your current unproductive lifestyle, and could even make you a leader in Lunar politics." Charles suspicion grew.

"And what might this spectacularly great 'opportunity' be, oh most favorite Auntie of all?" replied Charles. He had a feeling it was too late to suck up, but it was worth a try.

"That's not going to work, Charles. I've already decided you will be the one to take this job, no 'buts' about it," responded a cold, heartless Auntie. "You may start your position as mayor of New Tycho tomorrow. And yes, you're very welcome."