From Apocalypse To Entertainment Circle (BL) - Chapter 4: Scent of Blood: The Mysterious Man

He was once Head of the Immortal Sects.

Jiang Zheliu resisted the world’s destruction, protecting the people single-handedly. After losing all his spiritual energy, his hair turned white overnight.

All that remained was a millennium passed in vain, and a grave disease.

He distanced himself from the Cultivation World, went to Zhongnan Mountain to collect herbal medicines and grow flowers, as if to retire.

Until….. Those little demons he had once saved, his cherished juniors, even those devils that he had suppressed innumerable times, all came knocking at his door, each more excited than the next gripping his hand:

“Qianbei, what type do you like? Can you not be so rigid on your requirements?”

Jiang Zheliu: “……？？？”

Wenren Ye is newly appointed Devil Lord of the Devil Realm.

He is cold-hearted, devilishly handsome, and when he was younger he suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of a certain Head of the Immortal Sects.

Still obsessed with this defeat, Wenren Ye hurried through the night to Zhongnan Mountain, but all he saw was white-haired weak Immortal Sects Leader, with droopy eyes, sick to the bone, with freshly coughed up blood staining his lips.

His obsession was still alive, but his heart was also thumping.

- Description from Novelupdates

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.

Lin Lan transmigrated into a book set in the 80s and became a young widow with a child.As soon as she opened her eyes, someone was at her door demanding payment of debts, and when she went out, she was met with the disdainful and contemptuous gazes of her neighbors!She, a person who had owned a house and a shop through her own efforts, would she fail in the 80s?Facing external threats and internal difficulties, she picked up the skills from her past life, selling spiced broad beans and pea cakes outside, opening a shop...Her sister-in-law said, “Lin Lan, that man is not bad. He's strong and very family-oriented.”“No time, I'm busy with my business.”Her maternal aunt said, “You're just a widow, what are you being picky for? He's a 'ten-thousand-yuan household,' he doesn't mind that you have a child, you should be content!”A ten-thousand-yuan household! Heh heh!A certain man watched the busybody matchmakers who came to introduce partners to Lin Lan, his eyes gleaming with a cold light, as he strove to pursue his wife!

A child was born unable to cultivate Inner Strength. In order to gain his father's attention and regard, he resolutely chose the painful and difficult path of cultivating Outer Strength. As spring gave way to autumn, time flew by, and the child grew up... he became a young man. What truly changed his destiny was a mysterious Crystal Stone formed from a meteor—the Meteor Tear. This Meteor Tear, unbeknownst to the young man, merged into his body, and like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly, the young man metamorphosed... And with that transformation, everything changed. And his father finally came to realize the astonishing strength of the son he had never truly invested his Heart Power in...