Blood and Sparks: The Edge of Power - Chapter 3: Into the Fire

Cultivating his power by slaying demons and taming countless beasts, the emperor solidified his throne as the world's ruler. But not once in his life had he expected that his disciples would use research on demonology to sap the world tree's power and push the world to destruction.Trying to fix his mistake, he opted to use all of his cultivated power to cure the world tree and block anyone from sapping its power ever again. But in exchange, he was to lose all of his power.But...the worst had happened, his wife... had betrayed him.

At the Edge of the Void…A soft blue light hums, pulsing with energy, its robotic voice ringing with purpose.> “Do you accept me, System 0404, the Harem-Building System?”A young man in his twenties, eyes shining with excitement, eagerly responds:> “YES!”The blue light flares—The universe shifts—The binding process begins—DING!> [System Successfully Bound to…]…Daphne Han???????***System: “If you’re going to RUIN the harem-building mission, I’m not helping you!”Daphne: “Okay, I’ll just win without you.”System: “…Wait, what?”***World one:Male Lead: “Why are my offers disappearing?!”Daphne: “Oh? Maybe you just weren’t talented enough.”System: “YOU CAN’T JUST DELETE THE PROTAGONIST!”Actress #1: “Wait, I actually love acting, not this forced romance subplot?”Actress #2: “Oh wow, working under Daphne is way better than chasing ML’s validation.”Male Lead: “WHERE DID MY HAREM GO?!”System: “DON'T RUIN THE PLOT!”Villainess: “What do you want in return for everything?”Daphne: “You.”System: “NOOOO, SHE’S SUPPOSED TO BE HIS FINAL LOVE INTEREST!”World two:Emperor: “You were supposed to compete for my favor!”Daphne: “Nah. I’m the one with favor now.”Heroine: “Can I join your court instead?”System: “THAT'S NOT HOW HAREM DRAMAS WORK!”***CEO: “I was supposed to be her fate!”Demon Lord: “SHE WAS SUPPOSED TO REDEEM ME!”Imperial Prince: “What do you MEAN she’s not interested in me anymore?!”System: “THIS IS NOT HOW THESE STORIES WORK.”

I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay Down My Gun is a Korean web novel that immerses readers in a complex world where the protagonist, after returning from another realm, faces challenges that prevent them from abandoning their role as a warrior. The story intricately weaves elements of fantasy and sci-fi with a strong psychological undercurrent, exploring themes of identity and duty. In this gripping narrative, the protagonist is forced to confront the harsh realities of war and survival in a world that seems familiar yet is fraught with new dangers. Despite having the chance to return to a peaceful life, the protagonist finds themselves unable to lay down their weapon, suggesting a deep internal conflict and a sense of responsibility towards the battles they must still face​​​​. Why Read It: **1. A Unique Blend of Genres: The novel skillfully combines elements of action, adventure, fantasy, and mecha, offering a refreshing take on the traditional isekai (another world) genre. The mecha and sci-fi components add a layer of technological intrigue, making it appealing to fans of futuristic storytelling​​. **2. Psychological Depth: At its core, the story delves into the psychological struggles of its protagonist. The exploration of identity, post-war trauma, and the moral dilemmas of warfare provides depth and complexity, making it more than just a typical action narrative. This focus on character development and internal conflict resonates with readers who appreciate stories with emotional and psychological substance​​. **3. Rich World-Building: The novel is known for its expansive world-building, which blends modern-day elements with fantastical and sci-fi settings. The detailed environment and intricate plotlines create a captivating backdrop for the protagonist’s journey, engaging readers with its vivid and immersive universe​​​​. **4. Engaging Plot: With over 651 chapters and counting, the novel offers an extensive and engaging storyline that keeps readers hooked. The narrative is filled with unexpected twists, strategic battles, and complex character interactions, ensuring that there is never a dull moment​​. Reception and Popularity: I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay Down My Gun has gained a substantial following among fans of Korean web novels. Its blend of action, fantasy, and psychological themes appeals to a wide audience, from those who enjoy fast-paced adventures to those who prefer more introspective tales. Although still ongoing, the novel has already completed its first part and several side stories, providing a satisfying yet evolving reading experience​​. Conclusion: This novel is a must-read for fans of isekai stories who are looking for something with more depth and complexity. Its exploration of post-war realities and the psychological impact of conflict offers a thought-provoking take on the genre. Whether you're drawn to epic battles, intricate plots, or character-driven narratives, I Have Returned, but I Cannot Lay Down My Gun promises an unforgettable literary journey.

A teenager who obtained a life simulator, with the help of the life simulator, went from an inexperienced martial artist to the peak of cultivation, seeking immortals and chasing gods, paving the way for all living beings, and eventually becoming a generation of Taoist ancestors. [Avenue is fifty, Tianyan is forty-nine, escape to one of them! Therefore, everything in the world has a chance of life! ]

Sixteen years old: You broke through the ninth-rank martial artist, in order to deter all the enemies with ulterior motives.

Two hundred years old: You broke the bondage of heaven and earth, opened the body of the gods, and witnessed the way of immortals.

Three hundred years old: You realize the nature of heaven and earth, and prove the way of heaven and immortals.

Seven hundred and eighty-six years old: You have five proofs of the immortal way, one step to the sky, and the position of the monarch.

…

After countless simulations, [You have opened up an immortal path for all sentient beings and are respected as the Taoist ancestor. ]

- Description from novelbuddy