The Male Lead’s Substitute Wife - Chapter 39 - She Never Thought of Capturing His Heart (1)

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.

Adrien’s tale is a thunderous symphony of vengeance, mystery, and ascension. Awakened with no memory but wielding a shadow-forged blade, he traverses a fractured world where gods rule through fear and silence. His forgotten blood burns with the legacy of the Godslayers—beings once feared even by the divine. As he hunts corrupted gods and unearths shards of unimaginable power, Adrien evolves from a wandering enigma to a force capable of defying fate itself. Twisting through betrayal, hidden empires, and awakening legends, his journey is not just one of survival, but of reclaiming divinity to break the sky itself.

[Matured Content]Saving an injured Fae in the forest had not been Islinda's plan, and worse, he turns out to be royalty, Prince Valerie of the summer court, heir and crown prince to the throne of Astaria.But then, humans were wary of those otherworldly creatures while the Fae looked down on the humans, thinking of them as lesser creatures. Islinda and the prince were worlds apart but that didn't stop them from falling in love. Unfortunately, Prince Valerie couldn't stay in the human realm forever and had to return to his kingdom with a promise to come back for her. And she believed him. But then, the other one comes instead. Dark, broody, ruthless yet dangerously handsome, everyone feared Prince Aldric. Even as a fierce warrior and son to the king of Astaria, Aldric is denied his right to the throne and cursed never to take his place because of his dark heritage. Twisted from the inside and starved of affection, Prince Aldric does what he is best at, causing misery. He captured Islinda - the woman who has drawn his brother's attention. He stole her from her home for his cruel purpose. If he couldn't have the throne, he could at least play around with his brother's love interest. His new prize. Islinda hated him. Loathed him for taking away everything that she could have had with the summer prince. He's the villain. Now she has been dragged into the middle of the dirty politics played in the courts of Astaria, not to mention surviving the cold games played by the prince. But all hope wasn't lost because the cruel prince could tempt her all he wants but he was never going to get the one thing he wants the most. To be loved. He would never have her heart! Or could he? ________“What can you offer me, little human,” He grinned, slow and cruel. She would make such a wonderful plaything. “Please,” She begged him, tears now gathering in her eyes, “Just let me go.” “Fine,” He shrugged as if it was an easy request, “You can go.” “W-what?” She croaked, finding it hard to believe. “Little human, you would find out my mind changes very easily.” Those words sounded merciful yet she could sense the threat beneath. But did he really mean? Islinda didn't sit around to find out as she broke into a sprint. If there was even the slightest chance of him changing his mind, then she would take it. She would not give up hope yet. She didn't know why but Islinda spared a look over her shoulder after a while and the blood drained from her face at what she saw coming. Oh no, she just made a terrible mistake. This was never freedom. It was a hunt. And she just became the prey.

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