Within a Hollow Heart - Chapter 149: Volume 2, : "Shadows and Shattered Light"

People all say that the fourth daughter of the Marquis of Jing’an is really lucky. She is favored in the palace, has heirs and has a good family background. That is really a great thing! In fact, Shen Chuliu himself didn’t know how he got to this point.

It was like this at first. The concubine next to her was playing the piano and dancing. Shen Chuliu said that I was not a performer.

The concubine next to her was writing poems and painting, and Shen Chuliu said that I didn’t want to take the imperial examination. People laughed at her and said she was not favored. She smiled slightly and said, “I have a family background.”

The emperor really has no choice. If the concubine doesn’t come to please her, he still has to see her! Who said someone’s mother’s family is really awesome? Shen Chuliu really didn’t care. Those bastard relatives liked him so much that he started to let himself go as soon as he entered the palace.

It feels good to let go for a while, and it feels good to keep letting go. As a human being, the most important thing is to be comfortable. If you are too frustrated, even the emperor will not be able to use it!

- Description from novelbuddy

[Please select your difficulty. Choose very carefully, as it will determine everything.][Easy] [Normal] [Hard] [Nightmare] [Hell]“Hell, obviously!”------------Sam Walker, an average office worker, transmigrates into the world of the game he hates the most: [Forsakened].In this world, the apocalypse descended on Earth and merged with the [Forsaken] realm.The select few chosen, known as Awakeners, could explore this realm to gain tremendous strength and treasures.Sam didn't have any expectations, but surprisingly, he unlocked an SSS-Rank Class.[Primordial.]Alongside his class, Sam unlocked a unique skill that allowed all of his skills to evolve infinitely.“If this game truly wants me dead in this difficulty... then I'll fight back with everything I have!”...[You have evolved “Master Sword Technique” into “Primordial Sword Technique”][You have evolved “Fire Meteor” into “Supernova”][You have evolved “Powerful Shield” into “Ultimate Barrier”]...Nothing could stop him now.

Rael, once a teenager crippled by social anxiety, is reincarnated 1,553 years into the future after reading a book about Milford, the legendary God of Machima—a man who commanded armies of Steelborn, Machnoids, and Autonoms across the universe. Gifted with the Machima Bloodline and guided by Dominica, the World Domination System, Rael quickly rises to become the strongest World Conqueror.He first saw them on the book’s cover—steel women with lifelike faces, beasts with razor limbs, and looming above them all, a god in robes with a mechanical hand raised high. Coiled over him were a gigantic centipede and serpent of metal, guardians of his legend. Now, deep in a junkyard centuries later, Rael forges his own path. His first creation: an unbreakable fortress born in the dirt, a hulking Steelborn Tortoise with a mind sharper than any AI—crafted by Rael’s divine talent. From admiring Milford and wishing to be like him, Rael now marches forward to leave his own mark on the universe.Join him as he rises in rank across his world—and beyond.

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.