The Tamer Monarch - Chapter 2: Mindscape

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.

Mistaken by the system, Xiao Jinsheng, who transmigrated into an apocalyptic book world, becomes a malicious supporting female character who has competed with the protagonist since childhood.As compensation, the system promises to assign Xiao Jinsheng five handsome and mighty bodyguards.A mysterious and stunning snake-man with long violet hair, a proud and sharp-tongued cat-eared youth, a charismatic black panther youth brimming with raw energy, a gentle and thoughtful sheep-man 'mommy,' and an elegant, noble Dragon Sparrow Beast Husband ready to fly her to victory.With just one glance, Xiao Jinsheng recognizes these men as her long-lost husbands.The system tempts her: punch the first button and get five gorgeous husbands, letting you revel in a life of love and luxury.“11111!” Xiao Jinsheng frantically presses her fingers onto her 'husband’s' abs on the poster.But who would have guessed that even systems lie these days?Where are the promised gorgeous and devoted husbands? What she receives instead are five executioners!The enigmatic snake husband suffers abuse and is sold off to the black market; after escaping, he only lives to kill her.The cat-eared youth files for divorce daily, the dashing black panther youth terrifies her with bloody threats, the noble Dragon Sparrow avoids her like the plague, and even the seemingly gentle sheep-man 'mommy' turns out to be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.Xiao Jinsheng treads on thin ice, relying on the world’s mechanism where a Beast Husband must follow his wife in death to ensure these murderous husbands can’t harm her.She works hard to strengthen herself. Meanwhile, on the other side of the Mist Continent, a Demon Lord is deeply devoted to her, the King of the Deep Sea Mermaids falls for her at first sight, and even the Silver Dragon of Cloud Island stubbornly camps in front of her door.The five Beast Husbands, who were initially clamoring for divorce, drop to their knees with a slippery slide, now refusing to separate even in death.

Hulk was a pro football player, a guy who loved nothing more than clutching a pigskin and barreling through the defense like a runaway freight train. He lived for the gridiron. But he never, in his wildest dreams, imagined he’d see a pair of nipples bigger than a football. He became a giant baby, reborn with a new name: Orion. Orion was the runt of the giant litter, the weakest of the bunch. But when he turned ten, something crazy happened. He saw a strange panel – that not only displayed his stats but also helped him level up. With the panel’s help, and a whole lot of elbow grease, Orion led his giant tribe to become the most powerful in the Barren Mountains. He went from zero to hero, becoming a mighty Titan King. He was no longer the runt; he was the top dog.

Ruan Qiuqiu had transmigrated into a cannon fodder that had the same name as her in the novel, Sweet Pampering in Ancient Times: Demon King Husband, Please Spare Me

Right now, there were two paths before her:

Option 1: Continue playing the role of the supporting female character. After a few rounds of being faceslapped by the female lead, she would die tragically in the beast tide.

Option 2: For the sake of the tribe having enough salt, marry the wolf tribe’s former chief, a fierce wolf demon that was disfigured, crippled, and possibly had personality issues.

Ruan Qiuqiu chose the second option without hesitation. She rather go live a peaceful and ambitious-free life than compete with the female lead over some guy.

—

Due to a mishap, Mr. Big Bad Wolf, who had the blood of fiends in him, had become disfigured, crippled, and blind.

He was on the verge of death and his tribe had abandoned him. When he fell to the state of being so hungry that he was gnawing on ice…

The young bride, who his tribe had exchanged 300 catties of salt for, carefully walked to his side and covered his ugly damaged body with an animal hide.

She softly called him, “Husband?”