The return of the fallen king - Chapter 63: Receiving the new

Deep below the earth's surface, a mystifying subterranean seascape lurks, an archipelago bathed in inky blackness where suspense and horror hold court. Here lie strange islands and even stranger monsters, far beyond the realms of human imagination. In this domain, mankind is far from dominant; instead, madness and death rule supreme.

Pleading for mercy from the unknown creatures of the deep only leads to a slow, tortured existence. The trapped survivors gradually distort, losing what made them human, both physically and mentally, to the gloom as they remain trapped in this eternal obscurity. Their only hope? A perilous expedition into uncharted sea territories.

Fueled by determination, Charles embark on this daunting voyage aboard his steamship, aiming to reclaim humanity's past glory. Together with his crew, they sought a way out of this hidden sea world, a path back to the sunlit world above, where humans once stood tall.

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I read a few comments from Chinese readers that compared this novel with Lord of Mysteries because of similar elements: Lovecraftian, western fantasy, first industrial revolution, and steampunk. However, I have yet to finish reading Lord of Mysteries to do any actual comparison, but I do think those who have enjoyed that novel would enjoy this as well. Also, the author of LotM, Cuttlefish That Loves Diving, also did a shout-out for this novel, so I guess he approves of it too?

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Dear readers! Without any ads, maybe you will prefer .

“Ding ~ Host has been killed, experience + 100.”

“Ding ~ The Host despises the strong, imposing manner + 100.”

“Ding ~ Host has consumed a point, you have received a modern hand grenade!”

You can cut me, but can you not cut my face? He had to rely on his face to survive!

Ye Fan had traveled through a fantasy world filled with slaughter. The system told him that he could live forever!

You are an Earth Divine Realm expert? Sorry, kill him! Are you a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign? In my eyes, it’s too trashy!

Indestructible! This world is vast and boundless, and I am the king!

- Description from Novelupdates

In a world where strength determines one’s future, William, an orphan with no extraordinary talents, faces a grim destiny—until a brutal attack leaves him clinging to life. Instead of death, he awakens to a mysterious and powerful entity lurking within his mind: the Shadow System, a game-like interface that promises him unimaginable power. But this power comes with dark secrets, and refusing it would mean his death. Forced into a pact with a voice that can hear his every thought, William must navigate a dangerous new reality where shadow abilities and celestial power collide. As he enters the prestigious military academy, his newfound abilities draw both allies and enemies, all while a deadly conspiracy brews in the shadows. With the odds stacked against him, William must unravel the mystery of the Shadow System and decide whether to embrace the darkness within—or be consumed by it. His journey from a bullied outcast to a potential god will challenge not just his survival, but his very humanity. Power always comes at a cost—will William be able to pay the price? “What am I?” William asked the system. The system’s voice echoed in his head, cold and indifferent. “You are nothing.”

[Regressed successfully!]Zick lifted his eyelids, revealing two dull eyes. A grand room filled with medical appliances was reflected on his pupil.The piercing pain originating from the abdomen made Zick slowly accept the reality.He had returned 10 years back in the past!The very moment from when Zick began to lose everything.[Destiny system has been activated. Get closer to people with strong destiny and strengthen your own destiny!][Sub-function: shall be unlocked soon!]After taking a look at the interface, Zick closed his eyes.“First…I should repay that chick for this wonderful gift.” Zick looked at the bandages on his waist.......{Additional tags: Age regression, Evil protagonist, cold female leads, Academy, evil organizations, conquering, war.}