Diary of a Dead Wizard - Chapter 280: Third Rank

Xiao Ran transmigrated to a fantasy world. As a dungeon guard in the Celestial Dungeon, with a special floor called the Purgatory meant for powerful demons and martial arts experts, he faced a huge challenge from the start. The Eldest Princess acquired a forbidden martial arts technique and was banished to the Purgatory. However, no one was powerful enough to restrain her. All the dungeon guards were defeated. Xiao Ran stepped up and declared, “Your Highness, it’s better for you to behave yourself on my territory” and effortlessly subdued the Eldest Princess.

He progressed from imprisoning the Eldest Princess to delivering the Great Xia Kingdom from the evil clutches of various demons and evil martial arts experts.

…

Xiao Ran was the mastermind behind the scenes.

Xiang Nuan starts to play this game because of a certain famous gamer. Later, however, she finds out that the game is much more interesting than the man…

- 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.

“No matter what I would do, my actions would inevitably change the story. I knew this already.... But what do you mean that I changed the plot even before reincarnating in the novel!? ”

...

Should I follow the plot of the novel? Or should I do as I wish? Maybe I should follow the plot while making changes favorable to me?

These would be the first questions of those who reincarnate inside a novel. However, due to a certain event, Sol didn't have that luxury. He had already influenced the plot.

The change he created wasn’t small either. If nothing was done, the novel would head for a 100% certain bad end: Destruction of the multiverse.

Luckily for Sol, the plot of the novel had yet to begin. It would take a few months before everything starts in earnest and all the dimensions combine, bringing along the dying worlds and their catastrophes for the Great Merge.

“Yes! I will enjoy my life to the fullest!”

Calamities? Future Catastrophes? Inevitable Destruction?

Sol doesn't care for those things. He has a single aim, to live a life that would make even the Gods jealous!

Be it the hero who brings hope, the villain who crushes the protagonist, or the enigma who controls everything while staying in the background. Sol will switch to any role that benefits him.

But will everything go as he has planned? The longer Sol lives in this new world, the greater mysteries he comes to face. To start with, his new identity itself is….