Extra Basket - Chapter 210 - 197: Forest vs Vorpal (22)

Ye Zhenzhen, the omnipotent queen of the film industry, transmigrated as the despised cannon-fodder villainess and wicked stepmother in a novel. Her husband was wealthy but had a superficial relationship with her, and her stepson was adorable but indifferent towards her.According to the book's original plot, this cannon-fodder villainess was about to face a tragic ending...Ye Zhenzhen thought, 'Since I've transmigrated into the book, why should I fear these 2D characters?'In the face of her cold and distant plastic husband's words, she retorted, “How can a grown man with a body temperature of thirty-seven degrees speak such icy and heartless words to his wife?”Then, she was faced with the irrational demands of her stepson's classmate's mother, “Ye Zhenzhen, you owe me an apology.”She scoffed disdainfully, “Apologize to you? Will you kneel and listen to me if I do?”With her outstanding professional skills, she turned her life around by hosting a parent-child variety show, becoming an overnight sensation, and receiving countless acting offers!The stepson, who used to address her distantly and never as his mother, suddenly said, “My mom, Ye Zhenzhen, is the kindest and most beautiful woman in the world!”Haters: “So what if she's pretty? She married an old man for money!”One day, her plastic husband appeared at a charity gala and introduced himself, “Hello, everyone. I am Ye Zhenzhen's husband, the rumored old man.”The audience below couldn't believe their eyes and ears! The handsome and wealthy CEO of Huan Ya Group was Ye Zhenzhen's husband?!Haters: “Being slapped back in the face like this hurt like hell!!”

Imagine being forced to live, after death, as incorporeal bodies trapped in a vast space of nothingness for thousands of years, with nothing to do but exchanging past memories with other cohabitants (read: weirdos). Everybody wanted out, but there was no way to leave the Void…

Until one day, a young man was finally summoned, as a powerful but reluctant mentor, by a bubbly and motivated but completely naive young girl. Baiyi, finally out of the Void, was the only one who could save all of the other 32 souls from their prison and his summoner might just be The Key to their freedom.

However, Baiyi had to use the techniques and abilities the other souls had taught him throughout the years, and together with his own extensive knowledge of anime and game tropes from his shady and dangerous past as an otaku, to face the biggest challenge of them all: training the clumsy young girl he was forced to partner up with… into a competent sorcerer!

This is a story of heroic adventures, cunning strategies and romantic tales. How will our MC thrive in a world completely strange to him? Where will his ambitions and abilities take him in the palace?

- Description from Novelupdates

Darius had nothing going for him. Ever since he could remember, he had been treated as absolute trash by his boss, who was one of the greatest scouts for actors, singers, idols, and anything you could think of.However, everything changed one day when a truck rammed into him and sent him back in time to start his career as a nobody. But, this time, he hadn’t returned empty-handed. He received a great talent that would make him the best Manager the world had ever seen.【Talent Booster: You can increase the talent of those close to you. The closer and more intimate they are, the better the skill's effects will be.】You can’t sing? Sleep with me, and you’ll win a Grammy.You can’t act? Sleep with me, and you’ll win an OscarYou’re talentless? Sleep with me, and I’ll make you whatever you desire.

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.