I inquire, my voice filled with astonishment, "2500 years old?!" The employee responds, a hint of intrigue in their voice, "Indeed, and it raises the question of how they managed to excavate a 300-meter deep shaft near the mountain. What kind of tools did they possess? And how did they ensure proper ventilation for those who toiled underground?" As we venture further along the stream, we find ourselves immersed in a breathtaking heavenly garden. Spanning the vastness of a grand park, the stream gracefully meanders through its verdant landscape, eventually reaching the neighboring farms. To the East, an exquisite cyan dome stands proudly, serving as the mausoleums for a select group of esteemed Sophists. Towards the North, a sturdy brick building, its imposing gate facing South, captures our attention.

The employee leads us towards the impressive brick building. Stepping inside, our eyes are immediately drawn to the presence of the Ambassador, Colonel David, Colonel Iranmardy, and Ali, all standing respectfully by Gabriel's side. To our surprise, a diverse congregation fills the space. People from all walks of life, ranging from peasants to squires, and even individuals of different nationalities, have gathered. A hush falls over the room as a singer serenades them with enchanting verses from Rumi. Amidst this captivating ambiance, our attention shifts to an extraordinary figure. Seated upon a low stool, barely 15 centimeters high, is an elderly man well over the age of 120. His elevated position allows everyone in the room a clear view of his venerable presence.

Gabriel instructs us with a nod, "Go ahead and introduce yourselves to him." The awe-inspiring atmosphere and the profound presence of the elderly man leave Carol and me entranced, rendering us unable to think logically. Despite our astonishment, we oblige and approach him as he cordially invites us to take a seat nearby. An hour passes, and the gathering draws to a close, prompting the dispersal of the crowd. As the room empties, the venerable man beckons Gabriel and his companion to step closer. He then directs his gaze towards Carol, and later towards me, inquiring, "Who are you, and what brings you to Persia?" Colonel Iranmardy seems eager to respond, yet the older man gestures for him to remain silent. Just as I am about to answer on Carol's behalf, the aged figure interrupts, signaling for her to provide her own response. Overwhelmed by emotions she cannot quite grasp, Carol tearfully replies, "I am American." When my turn arrives, a whirlwind of memories from my childhood to the present floods my mind, causing confusion. However, I am unexpectedly met with the gentle face of my late grandfather, guiding me in my response. With conviction, I echo Carol's words, "I am American." The older man then turns to face Gabriel, a tone of gratitude coloring his words, "I commend your endeavors, as well as the efforts of this couple and the rest of you, for saving Earth and preserving life on this planet."

Gabriel gracefully bows, a display of respect I have never witnessed from him before. The elderly man, with kindness in his voice, beckons Colonel Iranmardy, Colonel David, and Ali to come closer, expressing his gratitude towards them once more. Turning his attention towards me, he utters my name, "John, the Knight of the Fourth Universe." A surge of overwhelming emotions overtakes me, causing tears to flow uncontrollably. It feels as though an external force is releasing the burdens of stress and pain that have plagued my soul since childhood. In a steady voice, the older man continues, his words resonating deeply within me, "John, you will remain on Earth for the next ten years, after which you shall ascend to the fifth universe." A profound shift occurs within me as his words penetrate my being. The weight I have carried for so long begins to dissipate, leaving me with a newfound sense of peace and liberation. Addressing Carol, he turns his attention to her, affirming, "Carol, you will outlive John, nurturing and raising your son into a courageous young man who will bring even greater peace and prosperity to this world." With a final expression of blessing, he encourages us to embrace the joys of life by serving our families, friends, and communities. He concludes with a heartfelt invocation, "May God's mercy be upon you all." In that moment, we are left standing, profoundly moved by the words of the wise elder, each carrying a renewed purpose and a resolve to fulfill our destinies.

Carol and I find ourselves seated on the front porch of our farmhouse, basking in the warm glow of the setting sun. Our gazes fixate on our spirited five-year-old son, Patrick, who joyfully engages with his furry companion, their playful antics filling the air with laughter and exuberant shouts. In recent times, I have been honored with a promotion. As the newly appointed head of the analytical division at the CIA's office in Missoula, Montana, I find myself entrusted with a crucial role. The office operates under the directive of the United States Government, with a particular focus on creating literature catered to the minds of young readers in Asia. This sophisticated establishment boasts a team of over twenty diverse analysts, each tasked with scrutinizing and digesting literary works originating from the Middle East. These include materials that have encountered the blade of censorship. These dedicated individuals continuously monitor the ever-changing landscape of the region, providing crucial insights and analysis on its unfolding events. As I sit beside Carol, I reflect on the significance of our roles within this intricate web of intelligence, understanding the weight of responsibility that lies upon our shoulders.

Carol finds contentment in my presence, and my new job feels like a rejuvenating respite. Our earnings exceed our needs, allowing us to lease our home in Long Island and permanently settle on her parents' farm, nestled to the right of the main house. Deeply rooted in her belief in the prophetic words of the wise elder we encountered in the northeast of Persia four years prior, Carol understands that my time by her side on Earth is limited to a mere six years. With this knowledge, she cherishes every moment spent with our family, savoring the joys of togetherness. Despite occasional worries that enter her mind, she embraces life wholeheartedly. However, Carol remains unaware of the sentiments that occasionally weigh upon me, unable to discern the inner workings of my thoughts or the occasional burdens that occupy my mind.

In truth, there are moments when I find myself enveloped by a sense of constriction upon the planet we call Earth. It is as if the world around me has become too constricting, akin to donning a shirt that is several sizes too small. The weight of this overwhelming sensation often stifles me, particularly when I am engulfed in the realm of tedious bureaucratic duties at my workplace.