Timeless Assassin - Chapter 1: Prologue

Jin-Ho Kang was just another B-rank Hunter—one of countless warriors struggling to rise in a world dominated by monsters and guild politics. When an A-rank dungeon scouting mission goes horribly wrong, he and his team are slaughtered. He should have died.But instead of death, he awakens in an abyss beyond mortal comprehension. A voice older than time itself speaks to him, a decree is made, and the truth is revealed—he is no longer human. He has inherited a power that was never meant to be his.The world forgot him.But he has returned.As a Sovereign.As the Monarch of Shadows.And as the boundaries between life and death begin to blur, the world will soon realize…The true King has awakened.

Amid a world war, with his awakening to powerful special abilities (Soul Armor Abilities), Kamiya Yuusuke, conscripted into the military at the age of 10 due to this newfound power, continued to achieve numerous victories on the challenging battlefield. As a result, at the age of 15, he held the position of Brigadier General.Despite traversing battlefields worldwide, he finally managed to return to Japan. The joy of returning home was short-lived, as news of an underage boy in the military started to leak to the public. In response, the military high command ordered Yuusuke to attend a military school called the Special Operations Soul Armor Academy and undergo a revision of his military records.Yuusuke, secretly pleased at the prospect of reclaiming his youth, faced numerous troubles, whether due to the nature of the unique school or perhaps because he had been in constant battle since childhood. What will happen to his relationships with strong-willed girls such as his half-silver-haired childhood friend, the older sister officer who is his work partner, and the tsundere honor student of the same age?

She is a descendant of Shennong with unparalleled medical skills and possesses a unique treasure. He is a handsome warlord who mysteriously goes blind and is sly and cunning. Crossing into another world, she becomes a six-year-old little waste. Through defying the heavens with summons and forbidden magic, she rises up in one fell swoop, showing a dazzling brilliance, looking down upon the powerful.When arrogant meets cunning and genius clashes with monstrosity, at that moment, the world trembles in awe!

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.