Codex Null: Simulation Through Madness

Sitting at the edge of the bed, Noel quietly stared at Lilith’s face — at her tear-streaked cheeks, and at her closed, slightly puffy eyes.

After that long hug, and a quiet conversation filled with small, ordinary things, Lilith had said she wanted to sleep.

And he had stayed by her side, holding her hand.

Inside the hush of that soft silence, Noel watched over his sister as she drifted off.

Her breathing, faint and erratic at first, slowly began to steady.

Eventually, it became calm and regular — like she had truly fallen asleep.

He waited a little longer, just to be sure.

Then, he slowly stood — preparing to leave.

But... Lilith’s hand tightened around his.

Is she still awake?

He paused, eyes on her face.

But she looked asleep — so deeply that he couldn’t tell for sure.