Invincible Immortal Cultivator in the City - Chapter 18 - 19: The last person who said this has turned to ashes

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.

During his patrol, Ji Xiu Yun, a marshal of the Empire, was ambushed and went missing. When he returned, there was a pure white creature crouching on his army cap.

Through genetic testing, it was determined that this cute and delicate little fellow was a creature that had faded away with the mother planet of humans 2000 years ago——a cat.

The last cat in the universe!

The people of the Empire were frenzied!

- Description from Novelupdates

them. That is, until his life deemed his playthrough unfair and gave him a red card. Poison was his family's best friend, as everyone had at least tasted it once, not twice because they never could.Death was never on his calendar, neither was an offer for a divine gig. Enter the Deity of Stories, a celestial being with a fetish for plot twists, who offers Min Jae a deal he can't refuse: become her divine cameraman.No, not the kind with a lens, but one who records the tales of mortals. In return, he gets a second shot at life, in a world where his dearly departed parents are alive and well, ready to dote on him from birth.Reborn as Judge (because “Min Jae 2.0” sounded too dull), he quickly realizes this new life is no gift. This steampunk utopia, filled with airships, clockwork gadgets, and an alarming lack of Wi-Fi, thrives on manipulation. But who needs the internet when you have a divine camera and the sharp mind to control it all?Judge isn’t just here to record stories; he’s here to write them, casting himself as the mastermind behind every twist and turn. Armed with his divine powers, he navigates complex schemes, power-hungry nobles, and ruthless industrialists, all while keeping his ultimate goal hidden: to ascend to godhood and rewrite his own fate.Of course, he generally makes a glorious mess of things, all while trying to keep his dear parents blissfully unaware of his less-than-angelic schemes. But as the stakes rise and the Deity of Stories watches his every move, Judge must tread carefully. Can he manipulate his way to the top, or will he become just another character in someone else’s plot twist?---Just a quick disclaimer: The book steers clear of any unwanted adult stuff. However, it does feature a potentially disturbing amount of violence—enough to make you wonder about the author's mental health.So proceed with caution—and maybe a shield!

“P-please let me go..” I stammered and before I knew it, I was word vomiting while crying. “—I won’t return. You won’t ever see me again. I know you don’t want me as a mate. You hate me, so please let me go.” I cried out.Cain’s jaw tightened with each word that left my lips “What gave you the idea that you have the power to choose what you want?” His voice was low, “You don’t get to decide what, how, and when you leave. Only I get to do that. You don’t get to leave me, you don’t get to run! You only leave when I want you to.”“I didn’t ask for this,” I whispered, trembling. “I didn’t ask to be your mate.”Cain stepped back, “Neither did I,” he muttered under his breath. “But the bond doesn’t give us a choice, does it?”~~~~As the only child of her late Alpha father, Avery Jae was meant to inherit her family’s legacy. But on the day of her arranged marriage to Alpha Lucian, her world crumbles. Rejected, humiliated, and cast aside for her own cousin, Avery barely escapes with her life only to find out a much deeper secret. One that changes everything.When Avery awakens, she finds herself in a foreign land, caught by the ruthless guards of the Vehiron pack, led by the infamous Alpha Cain. Tall, broad and as dangerous as the army he commands.Alpha Cain has a reputation that sends chills down the spine of even the most dangerous warriors. Haunted by his dark past, he has vowed never to take a mate, yet the moment he lays eyes on Avery, everything changes.With a single word, Avery is bound to Cain—whether he wants it or not. In a world where betrayal runs deep, can Avery ever trust the alpha who might just be her worst enemy.