I Only Wanted to Cultivate, But Why Marry the Empress?

After failing to ascend, the thousand-year immortal ruler transmigrates as Yang Xiao, a wealthy young master targeted for assassination. Determined to lie low and cultivate, he is forced by his father to marry Empress Wu Zhaoning. To protect the Great Xia empire, Yang Xiao reluctantly participates in a martial arts competition, defeating the Northern Barbarian prince and kicking out the capital's scholar. Amidst corrupt officials and invading armies, he orchestrates victory and saves the day. Transforming from a despised playboy into the sole defender of the city, the Empress realizes this seemingly absurd man is the last hope for Great Xia.