12 O'Clock Marionette - Chapter 31

The Baron’s daughter, Alessandra Barrett, has worn a mask from a young age due to an injury. Many say if you were to see the face behind the mask, you would be cursed and die soon afterward. She is seen as a ghost, avoided by all who visit the baron’s home until she becomes the Duke’s wife.

No one could understand why the Duke would pick such a wife. Did he wish to die?

What would become of the girl who once hid in the shadows but now had the spotlight on her as the Duke’s masked wife?

What would everyone say if they were to learn the truth that she was in a contracted marriage with the Duke?

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.

September 9th, 2023. A large black sphere manifested in the skies above all across the world.

No one knows how it happened or the underlying causes of it, but one thing is certain: it marked the beginning of the end.

One by one, human's began to awaken supernatural abilities, a new source of energy had come into existence on earth.

People's bodies became catalysts for this newly discovered energy, especially those who awoke these abilities.

Unfortunately for the Human's, it wasn't just their faction which was awakening these abilities.

The Vampires to awakened. Feeling threatened by the new power that the humans would have whilst also feeling confident in the new strengths of their own... The vampire's decided to wage war on the humans.

Our protagonist, Xavier Trigger, a young college student, was one of the many civilians who were caught in the middle of this war completely unaware of what was going on.

[You have died.]

An inexplainable notification message occupied the entirety of “MC's” vision

[Skill: Rewind has activated.]

'What's... Happening to me...?'

[Level 1: Return.]

“Hah... Hah... Hah...” He panted heavily as his eyes drifted open.

Jiang Yang and Qin Xu both dislike each other. Every time they meet they become filled with hatred. Both have feelings for the school idol but they didn’t expect that the other party was actually a cross-dressing man. In an instant, their world views were shattered.

“Bound to the system. I shall assist with building the friendship between you and Qin Xu. Tasks will be released randomly and punishments will be enforced if it is not completed on time.”

Jiang Yang scoffed coldly: “What a joke! I’m not doing it!”

Later….

The system exploded: “I wanted you to become friends but you became lovers instead?! You are the worst hosts I’ve ever had!”

Eventually the system transferred departments —– To the Matchmaking Department.

*****

Cold on the outside but soft on the inside cheap gong (Qin Xu) X hot-tempered and proud shou (Jiang Yang)

1. Both have systems and due to all kinds of misunderstandings they ended up becoming bent into a mosquito coil – hilarious high school life.

2. The system has a lot of functions to be explored =v=

3. The existence of the cross-dressing man is a big BUG. How he managed to hide his identity – only he himself knows.

- Description from Novelupdates