The cistern contains, the fountain overflows. - William Blake.

Gentle sunlight filtered through the bedroom as Uri Thornafield stirred to life. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, he felt great. In fact, he felt phenomenal – the growing sickness that had plagued him up until the night before had vanished. A surge of energy replaced the fatigue that had been weighing him down the last few days.

Cautiously, Uri swung his legs over the edge of the bed, anticipating the nausea, but it didn't return. A cautious step forward and he was began to trust that the brutal flu might be gone.

He made his way down the hallway to the smell of freshly brewed coffee. In the kitchen to his wife, Luna, poured him a cup.

She illuminated the room, she was strikingly beautiful, even first thing in the morning. She turned to face him, her expression warm and inviting.

"Uri, you're up! How are you feeling?" Luna's voice was enthusiastic for the hour.

"Luna, I feel incredible. The flu seems completely gone."

"That is wonderful, Uri!"

As she handed him a steaming cup, her fingers gently brushing against his as she did.

The change in Luna was profound. Gone was the irritation and frustration he had grown accustomed to the last few years. The demands of his career had taken a toll on his marriage. Instead, her eyes sparkled with genuine happiness.

Luna had been so distant lately, their once vibrant connection strained by his long hours at the lab. She had blamed him for getting sick, accused him of neglecting his health in pursuit of his work. And yet, here she was happily serving him coffee.

"Are you feeling well enough to go to work, Honey?" her voice encouraging.

"I know it has been hard lately," feeling guarded, "but we are so close to a breakthrough. I really should go in."

"Of course, dear," Luna replied sincerely, "Maybe we could go out for dinner tonight, if you feel up to it."

Uri marveled at the transformation. She had never seemed to appreciate his hard work, but Luna's once palpable anger and impatience had been replaced by warmth and support. He wanted to ask, to understand what had changed, literally overnight, but hesitated. The memory of their conflicts lingered in his mind, and he didn't want to dredge up grievances that may be fading into the background.

Instead, Uri decided to embrace the moment. He finished his coffee, savoring the remarkable flavor, and then readied for work. Luna remained by his side, offering words of encouragement and small gestures of affection.

Luna handed him his coat and briefcase with a tender smile. "Good luck today, Uri. I believe in you," she said, with unwavering support.

Uri looked into Luna's eyes. He had so many questions, but rather than risk asking, he leaned in to kiss her on the cheek. Luna turned her face, her lips meeting his own, for a deep passionate kiss.

Cupping his face in her hands, Luna whispered, "Hurry home."

The grounds surrounding the EterniMind Solutions compound were meticulously landscaped, emerald-green grass stretching in every direction. The sleek, modern architecture of the sprawling complex stood boldly against the horizon.

Uri was excited to get back to work and anxious to be briefed on what he had missed by being out sick the last few days. He and his team were very close to bringing to market a technological breakthrough that world change the world.

As Uri approached the main building he was captivated by the grandeur of the high-tech facility. He had been here countless times, but he only now fully realized how incredible the place was. Today everything seemed brighter and cleaner than before. The air felt fresher, and the sun shone brighter.

The towering glass doors opened into a world of innovation. Uri stepped inside to the hum of activity. Scientists and researchers moved purposefully through the corridors, white lab coats were everywhere.

Uri was well known here. He was greeted with one "Good morning, Dr. Thornafield" after another, which he responded to cheerfully, as was his practice.

However, today the greetings included several that he ignored without understanding.

"Congratulations, Dr. Thornafield!"

"Well done, Doctor!"

"This is a big day, Uriah!" came from his partner on the project and his best friend, Thomas Barazoa, as he came along side to walk down the wide corridor.

Uri's mind raced to recall why today was important or worthy of congratulations. He pushed the thought aside. He just needed to get to the lab and get caught up.

"I must have missed something, Thomas," Uri said as they walked.

"You are just in time, my friend," came the enthusiastic reply, "You are not missing a thing.

As they continued toward the lab, Thomas turned toward the office suite. He paused when Uri didn't follow and said, "We don't have time for the lab this morning. I have what we need in the office, then we need to get right to the meeting."

Uri stopped, his brow furrowed, and his confusion deepened.

Thomas didn't wait long before continuing, now with some urgency in his voice, "Come with me, Uri. Everyone is waiting."

This meant nothing to Uri, and he was starting to question his own sanity, but without a word, he followed into Thomas's office.

The luxurious office was familiar and identical to Uri's own adjoining space. The sleek, minimalist design showcased a perfect blend of sophistication and cutting-edge technology. The walls were covered with large monitors displaying intricate graphs and charts. The room was bathed in soft lighting that accentuated the sleek furniture and gleaming surfaces.

The centerpiece was a state-of-the-art desk, adorned with holographic displays and touchscreens. The desk came alive as Thomas approached, his fingertips gliding effortlessly across the touch-sensitive surface.

One of the screens was a removable tablet that Thomas picked up and immediately handed to Uri. With a wide smile Thomas said, "The final draft is complete and ready for the presentation."

As Uri read the screen his eyes widened, and his jaw dropped.

Project Eterna: Advancements in Neural Mapping, Genetic Transfer, and Consciousness Preservation

Final Report: Uriah Thornafield, Ph.D., D.Sc., and Thomas P. Barazoa, D. Sc.

Uri was stunned. How had this happened? They were close, but not nearly ready for this. He swiped to the next screen and continued reading.

Executive Summary: In this final report, we present the achievements and milestones attained by Project Eterna. This undertaking focused on advancing the fields of neuroanatomical cartography combined with the replication, transfer, and integration of genetic information to a virtual platform beyond the viability of the biological system.

We have successfully integrated technologies to capture, transfer and store both neural and genetic data, offering the indefinite preservation and continuation of human consciousness beyond the limitations of the physical body.

"It's finished?" Uri stammered, his mind flooded with a mix of astonishment and confusion. The realization hit him like a wave crashing on the rocks—Project Eterna was complete.

Uri couldn't comprehend the rapid progress. The final report had his name on it, but he had no memory of contributing to it. The executive summary succinctly outlined everything they hoped to accomplish as if it were already done.

Uri flipped through the pages, expounding on their incredible success. As Uri absorbed the words, he became overwhelmed by emotion. Could he have climbed the mountain of his life's work with no memory of reaching the peak?

"Thomas, " Uri struggled for words, "My last memory is entering Phase Three Genetic Trials. We were months away from this."

Uri's head suddenly cocked to the side as he considered this must be a joke. That was the most logical explanation.

"This isn't real is it, Thomas?" his voice revealing the dissonance he felt.

Thomas looked worried. "Uri," he said with compassion in his voice, "The world is literally waiting in the lecture hall for us to announce our findings. It is not only real, it's happening now."

Uri was processing information as fast as he could. Thomas was serious and he trusted him. He had to trust his friend in this moment more than he trusted himself.

"I must be losing my mind," Uri's voice trembled, "I am reading this document for the first time as we stand here. I cannot possibly present it to anyone."

Thomas thought for a moment and offered reassuringly, "Uri, I will handle the presentation if you prefer. But this is your accomplishment, you must join me on stage and have this moment."

Relief washed over Uri, the offer allowing him for the first time to consider the gravity of the occasion. If this was real, they had defeated death itself.

It was as if Uri had missed the beginning of the movie and was slowly catching up.

"We do need to go, Uri," Thomas said softly, "It will be okay. I will do the talking, but an hour from now, you will be the most famous man on the planet."

The lecture hall was packed with scientists, thought leaders, investors and members of the press, who streamed the presentation live around the globe. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation.

As he and Thomas stepped onto the stage, the spotlight shining down on them, the audience applauded. Uri mustered a smile, acknowledging their appreciation, while concealing the whirlwind he felt under the surface.

After introductions, Thomas stepped forward and began the presentation, expertly detailing the research, breakthroughs, and implications of Project Eterna. Uri's relief grew as his friend captivated the audience with his eloquent delivery.

As the presentation reached its climax, one of the attendees raised a hand with a question. As Thomas acknowledged him, Uri immediately recognized Emilian Swendborg, perhaps the most renowned scientist in their field. Uri was in awe, as an admirer of his work, he was profoundly humbled that Swendborg had come all the way from Sweden.

"Dr. Barazoa, your research is groundbreaking, no doubt. But what comes next? Do you plan to move beyond this virtual realm and bring the preserved consciousness into the physical realm?"

Thomas paused for a moment, his gaze shifting to Uri before responding. Bringing this from the virtual to the physical was the culmination of their dream, and they were already deep into the research.

"Thank you for your question. It's true that our current focus has been on the preservation and continuation of consciousness in a virtual environment. However, we understand the desire to bridge the gap between the virtual and physical."

Thomas continued, his voice brimming with excitement. "We believe that this next step will not be difficult from a technological standpoint."

"But," Thomas added, his tone growing more serious, "we must also consider the ethical implications of such a leap.

Uri may have been confused, but he knew he did not want Thomas going there. For all they agreed upon, this was one area of tension. Thomas was obsessed with resolving complicated ethical issues to the point of jeopardizing the project.

Uri clearly remembered all the conversations where Thomas fixated on autonomy, consent, privacy, data security, moral responsibility and long term consequences. The thought of Thomas saying "long term consequences" in any context to this group, stirred him to action.

Uri stepped forward and caught Thomas's eye. Thomas was relieved that his mentor now seemed ready to participate and gracefully invited him to take the podium.

"Indeed, Dr. Swendborg," Uri's voice carrying a mix of enthusiasm and contemplation. "While our focus has been on a virtual realm, the implications of extending this into the physical world are profound.

"We recognize that the richness of our interactions, the depth of our emotions, and the essence of being human are intrinsically tied to the physical world we inhabit. Our next step, as we move beyond Project Eterna, is to explore the development of lifelike avatars that will house the preserved consciousness of our loved ones. These avatars will enable these individuals to be present among us once more."

Uri's eyes met Thomas's, a silent understanding passing between them. Sensing that Thomas wanted him to mention the ethical concerns, Uri's reassuring glance suggested that this was not the time.

A murmur of excitement rippled through the audience, and Uri continued, his voice steady and resolute. For the first time today, Uri felt like he belonged again.

"Imagine a world where we can reunite with departed family members," Uri continued, " and engage in meaningful conversations, and share experiences as though they were still by our side. This technology has the potential to reshape our very understanding of life and death."

Uri's words hung in the air, and the audience erupted in applause and a buzz of animated conversations. Uri and Thomas stood side by side, basking in the energy of the room. They knew that they had embarked on a journey that would forever change the course of humanity.

After a busy morning filled with back-to-back meetings, Uri and his team were invited to a mid day celebration in the executive dining room with the EterniMind senior leaders and board of directors.

As the CEO personally welcomed Uri, he took in the elegance of the place. The sophisticated decor, the fine linens and polished silverware were quite a contrast to the staff cafeteria where he was accustomed to having lunch.

As they settled into their seats, the executive chef announced the menu as the aroma of delicious cuisine wafted through the air. The expertly prepared meal was served quickly and flawlessly. It was clear to Uri, that although elegant, the efficient and fast pace was intended to keep everyone on schedule.

Amidst the chatter, the CEO rose from his seat, capturing everyone's attention. With high praise and congratulations he presented Uri with a new award that he described as EterniMinds highest honor. The room erupted in applause as Uri accepted the award.

After lunch the schedule returned to mirror the busyness of the morning. It was exhilarating but exhausting and the sun was setting before Uri had a moment alone in his office.

It was then that he took a moment to reflect on his amazing day. The announcement in the lecture hall, the succession of meetings with various stakeholders, all very impressed with his work, and of course the award presentation from the CEO. With that final thought he opened the box containing the award.

He was not easily impressed, but this was exquisite. A translucent crystal of elegant design and exceptional quality. Along the top, "Clavis Aurea" is carefully etched.

"The Golden Key," Uri whispered, translating the Latin, admitting to himself that he was impressed by this token of his accomplishment.

Embedded within the round crystal, a large key was positioned, almost vertically, half submerged in the fine glass. Meticulously crafted of bright yellow gold, with intricate silver and copper detailing.

Beneath the embedded key was engraved,

Death is the golden key that opens the palace of eternity - John Milton

Emotion starts to rise as Uri considers the accomplishment that the orb represented.

Uri's mind drifted for a few moments as his eyes wander out the expansive office windows. He noticed the campus lights in the surrounding darkness.

Only then did he consider the time. He was surprised at how late the hour had gotten. Time had flown by, and it was now well after nine o'clock.

Suddenly a weight settled on his shoulders. He had forgotten. Forgotten about Luna. Her anticipation, the love and excitement that had sparkled in her eyes when she urged him to hurry home. He had forgotten their dinner plans. He had disappointed her once again, just when things between them seemed to be turning a corner. How could he have been so careless? How could he have done this again so soon?

As he imagined returning home, a dark cloud of expectation loomed. He anticipated Luna's disappointment and began to brace himself for the justification. He would try to share his excitement, the importance of the day, but already knew that would fall flat.

As Uri drove home, a whirlwind of emotion engulfs him. The memory of Luna's warmth that morning reminded him of a side of her he hadn't seen in a while. It sparked a flicker of hope, of possibly rekindling the relationship that he feared had slipped away. Expectation turned to dread as he pulled into the garage and entered the house to face his wife.

Luna greeted him at the door, a soft smile on her face.

"Luna, I'm so sorry," Uri said, remorse in his voice. "I completely forgot about dinner. Today has been overwhelming, and I got caught up in everything."

Luna's smile widened as she placed a gentle hand on his arm. "I know, Uri. I watched the live stream."

She guided him into the dining room where the table was set with candles and their best china. The aroma of her cooking suddenly filled the air.

"Let's celebrate."

Tears welled up in Uri's eyes as he realized how lucky he was. He knew he had neglected their relationship and feared that he had lost her.

As they dined, Uri opened up about his day, from the initial confusion, that he attributed to the foggy remnants of the flu, through all of the glorious triumphs. Luna listened intently, as if hanging on every word.

With each passing moment, Uri felt the weight of disappointment and guilt lift from his shoulders. It was evident that Luna still cared deeply for him, her love shining through in the warmth of her eyes.

As the night progressed, their conversation turned more intimate, their words laced with a renewed passion. The love-making that followed, their first in months, had a passion and intensity that had been missing for years.

As they lay there, with Luna in his arms, on the threshold of sleep, Uri could not imagine how he could possibly be any happier.

The next few days were packed with events for both Uri and Thomas. They went from interviews, reliving their successes, to meetings with investors, casting a vision for their imagined future, to gathering with their team to make plans for ensuring that future became a reality.

One after another these days came as an energizing reward for their accomplishments. Each euphoric and exhausting day ended by returning to Luna, who's love and devotion to Uri now seemed completely unconditional.

The weekend found Uri and Thomas together still, but now out of the office. They golfed together often and had been looking forward to getting in a round amidst the bustle of recent activity.

It was a picture-perfect day on the golf course, bathed in warm sunlight with a gentle breeze. The camaraderie between the men was evident in the playful banter and laughter of a friendship that extended far beyond their work.

As they teed off, Uri's swing was fluid and precise. Every shot was near perfect. If a ball was slightly off the mark, the next swing delivered just the recovery needed to save the hole. Uri's game was never better, and he reveled in each well-executed shot.

The thrill of the competition was made perfect by the continued conversation about their work. The vision of the Avatar Project building on the success of Eterna. Uri's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as they shared their vision for the future.

Thomas couldn't contain his excitement and admiration for Uri's accomplishments. He spoke passionately about the groundbreaking project they had undertaken together but describing it as "your achievement" instead of "our achievement" was an uncharacteristic word choice that struck a discordant tone.

Uri had always seen their work as a collective effort. He had relied on Thomas's support and intellectual collaboration throughout the project. This was a team effort that extended well beyond even the two of them. The thought of taking sole credit made Uri uncomfortable.

Attempting to redirect the emphasis, Uri interjected, "Thomas, you know it's not just me. Our entire team has put in countless hours and contributed significantly to this achievement."

Thomas, persistent, dismissed Uri's attempt to shift the focus. "No, Uri," he said, his voice firm yet filled with genuine admiration, "This is your achievement. Your brilliance and dedication have taken us to unimaginable heights."

Uri's brow furrowed as he sensed something amiss in Thomas's effusive praise. It felt hollow, lacking the usual depth and sincerity that had characterized their interactions. He began to realize the entire week had been that way.

"Thomas, I appreciate your words, but this has always been a collaborative effort. We've debated, challenged each other, and grown together. We couldn't have achieved any of this without your insights and contributions."

Thomas's smile didn't falter, "Of course, Uri. I value our collaboration and appreciate that our debates have been valuable in shaping your ideas."

"Thomas," Uri continued, his tone measured yet earnest, "let's talk about your ethical concerns regarding the Avatar project. I know we've had our disagreements, but you have valid points we need to address openly and honestly."

Thomas nodded, the same smile on his face. "Uri, I assure you I have no ethical concerns regarding the Avatar project. We are in complete agreement. Our vision aligns perfectly."

Uri's frustration simmered. The sincerity that once defined their discussions had been replaced by an artificial echo, void of the intellectual depth that had fueled their creative process. He couldn't shake the feeling that this had been happening all week.

Sensing Uri's growing unease, Thomas subtly shifted the conversation back to highlighting their shared vision and the groundbreaking potential it held. However, the once vibrant and spirited dialogue between them now felt one-sided.

As the golf game progressed, Uri found himself grappling with the mounting dissonance. There was a longing for the intellectual camaraderie they had once shared—the respectful disagreements that had fueled their creativity. The ease of Thomas's agreement, the absence of his steadfast ethical concerns of the ethical considerations was wearing on Uri's spirit.

Uri couldn't escape the weight of disappointment. The perfect day, his near-flawless game of golf, and the unwavering support of his colleague — all of it should have created a sense of fulfillment, but instead, he felt sad and empty.

As Uri drove away from the golf course, he felt a growing desire to return home to Luna and process all of this with her. He realized this was something he would not have felt a week ago, reminding him of the change in their relationship, and the need to repent of his past neglect. He was ready to work that out and reinforce her renewed enthusiasm for their marriage.

As she had all week, Luna met him joyfully as he returned home, giving him an urgency to get right to the point.

"Luna, I want to apologize," Uri began, "I'm sorry for putting work first, for neglecting you and our marriage. I've taken you for granted and want to make it right. I want to be the husband you deserve."

Luna's expression softened, and she brushed a gentle hand against his cheek. "Uri, you don't need to apologize. I understand the passion you have for your work. It's never been a problem for me."

Uri's heart sank.

"No, Luna, that's not true," Uri responded, frustration mixed with determination in his voice.

"I can't pretend that everything has been fine. Our relationship has suffered, and I've neglected you. I need to acknowledge the pain I've caused."

Luna looked at him with unwavering love, her eyes filled with unconditional acceptance. "Uri, I love you. Let's focus on moving forward, on cherishing the present and creating a future filled with happiness."

Uri thought back on the last week with Luna. Her sudden shift. He searched his memory for a single meaningful conversation but found none. Not one with Thomas, nothing with Luna, not a single interaction of any depth with anyone.

He took a deep breath, his voice laced with desperation and vulnerability. "Luna, I want us to truly communicate. It's not enough for us to pretend that everything is fine when it's not. I want us to have the kind of relationship again where we can address our concerns, share our fears and hopes, and grow together."

Luna looked at him, her expression a mix of tenderness and contemplation. After a moment she nodded gently. "Uri, I think you are being silly. Come into the kitchen, I have made lunch for us."

Like a tidal wave Uri realized that Luna's responses mirrored what he was getting from Thomas. It was as if both were playing a role, indulging him, but failing to truly connect.

Uri's frustration grew, mingled with his growing sadness. The lack of genuine connection left him yearning for more—more depth, more authenticity, more understanding.

As they ate lunch together, Uri's thoughts turned to another old friend. A place where he had been able to find comfort and meaning in the past. Returning would feel like a journey into his distant past, he was not sure what to expect, or even if he would be welcomed, but Uri did not know where else to turn. He kissed Luna on the cheek and headed out.

The New Horizon Community Church stood modestly in the heart of a serene neighborhood. A single-story building, its exterior adorned with weathered bricks, and a simple wooden cross atop the entrance. Although he had not been here in years, it was exactly as Uri remembered.

Also unchanged over the years was Pastor Gabriel Truman, standing outside the double wooden door of the otherwise empty building.

Pastor Truman's eyes lit up as Uri approached, "Uriah Thornafield, welcome. I have been expecting you."

"Really?" Uri couldn't hide his surprise, "It has been years."

"It has," came the pastor's even reply, "but you are quite famous. Everyone has been talking about you."

"I suppose that's so," Uri trying to appear humble, "It's been a remarkable week."

"It has," Pastor Truman repeated in the same even tone, "remarkable, indeed."

"I need your help, Pastor Truman," Uri said, with a seriousness to his voice.

Of course, Uri," his voice now empathetic, "Call me Gabriel and come in."

Inside the small church office, Uri poured out his heart to Gabriel, the old friend who had once been an important spiritual influence. Despite the years that had edged the importance of faith out of Uri's life, and loss of contact with Gabriel, the conversation flowed easily.

He shared his deep concerns about the hollowness of his relationships recently with Luna and Thomas. Gabriel listened attentively.

Uri was pleased to find Gabriel's responses had a genuine curiosity and some of the depth that he craved. But he also noticed a subtle aloofness in Gabriel's demeanor. It was as if the pastor knew more that he wasn't disclosing.

Uri pleaded with Gabriel to offer guidance, to understand how at the pinnacle of his achievement, with an avalanche of acceptance and fame, with an adoring wife and devoted friends, he felt so hollow and unfulfilled.

"I can help you," Gabriel said with compassion and confidence that brought a wave of relieve and hope over Uri.

Without opening the Bible he carried, Gabriel looked at Uri with compassion as he spoke.

"Luke speaks about a man of accomplishment, not unlike yourself when he writes: Remember that in your lifetime you received your good things," his tone is even, but the words concerning to Uri, "but now...you are in agony."

"I am in agony," Uri confessed, "but why?"

"You have managed an incredible feat, Uri," Gabriel went on, "You have created a near perfect environment to spend eternity."

Uri felt a tinge of pride, but this did not feel like a compliment.

Now reading from the open Bible, Gabriel said, "And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us."

A confused look came over Uri, his brow furrowed as he asked, "What does it mean?"

"Uri, my child," Gabriel was now speaking with a voice that did not sound like his own, "You have chosen your own creation, which is now yours, forever."

The cryptic words made no sense to him, "What are you saying, what does this mean?"

"You have forsaken the eternity promised to you for one of your own design."

"I don't understand," Uri stammered, searching for the right question to ask or objection to raise.

"Uri, you did not survive the illness you suffered. A week ago you died, and carried yourself to the place you call Eterna. This is where you are now."

Uri's mind reeled, "I didn't die. I am right here."

"I am afraid you did, Uri," Gabriel said calmly, "You are here, but this is not life. You have surrounded yourself with the trappings of life and the images of the people, just as you designed them."

"How can you know this?" Uri objected, "If we are separated by a chasm that no one can cross, how can you be here now telling me this?"

"The Creator is not limited in reaching you at His choosing," Gabriel continued, "The one you have forsaken speaks to you now, but that window will close."

Panic and fear pushed away Uri's confusion as the truth began to dawn on him.

"I can't be trapped here forever," Uri pleaded, "There must be a way out."

Suddenly the familiar glass globe appeared on the desk between them.

Death is the golden key that opens the palace of eternity.

"Uri, you have relied on the wisdom of men, so consider more words from John Milton:"

'The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a Heaven of Hell, a Hell of Heaven.'

"Make of it what you will, Uriah Thornafeld, this is your eternity."