Dr. Samantha Wilkens taught a class on Neural Nano Programming: ''The Creation of a Universe in Your Mind.''


    Her students each demonstrated their final class project — to build a world more fantastic than anything in the real world.


    Julian, a student, was next and claimed his demonstration was ''different.'' While others were delving into paradisical or ethereal worlds, he said his would ''shake your very essence.''


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    Everyone who had interacted with it screamed out of sheer terror.


    She plugged into it and screamed, too.


    "Julian," said Professor Wilkins, "you must have forgotten something; there''s nothing there."


    "Of course, Professor, I meant to simulate death."


    "Hmm …" Professor Wilkens paced and nodded. "Assuming nothing happens after death, the concept of nothingness is our imagination''s greatest and most controversial product. Good job!"