From Destitute Top Scorer to Powerful Regional Official

Gu Changyuan transmigrates into an alternate historical world as a down-on-his-luck top-ranked scholar. He has no interest in fighting for power or wealth. He just wants to lie flat as a regional lord, governing his own territory and being emperor in all but name.

Before the campaign

Civil and military officials: When is that Gu fellow finally going to leave?

After the campaign

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

Gu Changyuan: Huh? What troops?

Chief Eunuch Li: The Divine Emperor has appointed you General Who Pacifies the North.

Gu Changyuan: I thank the Divine Emperor for his favor. You’ve been put to a lot of trouble, Chief Eunuch Li.

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

Gu Changyuan: A general in the field need not obey every imperial command.

I’m not going back, not a chance. How would I know if it’s real or not?