“Are you willing to take the pill, Captain Henderson?”


    “Do I have a choice? It’s a requirement for deep space voyages beyond Mars, right?”


    “Yes, but it’s permanent and very high risk. So we rarely ask for volunteers.”


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    “It’s a nanotech fountain of youth, correct? A two for one bonus.”


    “Sure thing, Captain …”


    Approximately 175 years later:


    “How are you, Captain?” asked a cybernetics psychologist.


    “Mentally, physically, excellent as always. They keep me ticking. But … my soul hurts.”


    “Your soul?”


    “Yes, my soul. I miss them all. I can’t attach to anyone. They all die. I’m forever alone.”