Rule Horror: This Newcomer Shouldn’t Exist

When Wen Jinbai wakes up, he is inside the rule-based horror instance "Happy Apartments."

His wristwatch reads:

"Welcome, player Wen Jinbai, to the beginner instance."

"Please remember the rules."

"One: Do not leave your room after ten p.m."

"Two: If a neighbor knocks, make sure to check his face first."

"Three: There is no Room 404 in this apartment building."

Everyone takes him for a newcomer.

Until he stands before the nonexistent Room 404 and softly says:

"That rule is false."

The next second, the System alarm rings throughout the entire instance.

"Abnormal player detected."

"Residual deleted administrator privileges detected."

"Warning: Player Wen Jinbai should not exist."

The aloof veteran player Yan Guichi pushes through the crowd and grabs his wrist.

Deep emotions lie buried in his eyes, but his voice is steady:

"Don't look back."

"I've been looking for you for three years."

Wen Jinbai doesn't remember him.

Yet the moment he hears Yan Guichi's voice, something seems to give his heart a gentle nudge.

Only later does he learn the truth.

Three years ago, he died inside the System's core.

Everyone forgot him.

Only Yan Guichi remembered.