Unraveled Ties - Chapter 2: A Subtle Pull

My whole life, all I wanted was power.

I churned the world into rivers of blood and eventually gained the title, “Demon Lord of Strength”. However, all this became useless when I lost to a party of heroes.

But what can a loser say? As I laid dying, I was forced to listen to the hero’s gibberish:

“If you are born again, I hope that you will live a kind life!”

But huh? When I opened my eyes again, I was back in the past.

“What do I have to do to live a kind life?”

This is the beginning of an ex-Demon Lord’s journey to live a kind

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.

Ling Xiao was secretly in love with a girl named Mo Qi; because of an accident, they both crossed into the ancient times.

Mo Qi who was preinstalled with the Mary Sue halo, in these ancient times, walked to the summit with a golden finger.

However, Ling Xiao continued to be exploited by Mo Qi.

After he no longer had any values to exploit, he soon became a pitiful cannon fodder.

The heavens decided to take pity on Ling Xiao.

And gave Ling Xiao an opportunity for rebirth.

After rebirth, he vowed that all his enemies would repay him with a debt of blood!

However, why have all these enemies of his, fallen into the mode of cutting their heads open?

“Hey, are you really that unremarkable person who used to follow behind Mo Qi?”

“So this dance was originally danced by you, sigh……”

“You are obviously a man, yet you move me so much.”

“Enough! Since you have taken the initiative to provoke me, then you must concentrate on me!”

Ling Xiao expressed: If you want to counterattack, then counterattack. As long as your golden finger is bigger than Mo Qi’s.

But how did Mo Qi’s Mary Sue halo end up in his body! He is still a straight man who likes beauties! He definitely, definitely doesn’t want to turn bent!

- Description from Novelupdates

“Introduce yourself!”The smile on Aoba's face slowly converged, and he became extremely serious, which made his face in the shadow of the backlight even more terrifying.“My name is Yamanaka Aoba, fourteen years old and live in the Anbu dormitory. I work in the Konohagakure Intelligence Division and live an ordinary quiet life every day...”Aoba transmigrated to the world of Naruto, became an ordinary Yamanaka clan member. Due to his frail body, the clan arranged for him to become Anbu in the Konohagakure Intelligence Division and conduct mind-reading interrogation work.When he didn't know how to pass the level, he awakened the Mind Reading System. Not only could he read memory, but he could also get rewards!Aoba learned from the memories of those who need to be interrogated that the ninja world was far more dangerous than he imagined, so he decided to grow wretchedly in the Konohagakure Intelligence Division and would never waver before becoming invincible ninja world.Ten years later, the Kyuubi Rampage broke out.Seeing that Kyuubi's claws were about to smash the Konohagakure Intelligence Division, Aoba had no choice but to make a move.“Kyuubi, you are too strong. You should still be sealed!”This is translated novel.