He didn't want to return, nor did he ever think of ascending to that position, because he harbored a deep aversion to the Imperial Palace. However, being a man, there were many things he had to take on, and being already in the midst of it, he had no way to extricate himself.
He had no ambition, but he had a conscience.
He couldn't let those who shared fortunes and hardships with him suffer because of him. They faced life and death together, and if they were implicated because of him in the end, he would never forgive himself no matter where he went.
Moreover, he had promised to be her Brother Qiao for life and to protect her to the best of his ability for a lifetime.
Perhaps she didn't need his protection, but if he only avoided responsibility, what could he bring to her?
