From Destitute Top Scorer to Powerful Regional Official

Gu Changyuan transmigrates into a down-and-out top scholar in an alternate historical world. He has no desire to fight for power or wealth; he just wants to lie flat as a regional lord, become a powerful official ruling over a fief, and be his own emperor.

Before the expedition

The civil and military officials: When is that Gu fellow finally going to get lost?

After the expedition

The Second Prince: Brother Gu, when are you returning the troops you borrowed?

Gu Changyuan: Huh? What troops are you talking about?

Chief Steward Li: The Divine Emperor has appointed you General of the Northern Garrison.

Gu Changyuan: I thank the Divine Emperor for his favor. You've gone to a lot of trouble, Chief Steward Li.

Chief Steward Li: The Divine Emperor is gravely ill and urgently summons you. General Gu, hurry back.

Gu Changyuan: A general in the field need not obey every order from the sovereign.

I'm not going back. How am I supposed to know if any of that is true?