The Shadow Guard's Inner Monologue Is Longer Than His Life

Chu Ce has a secret: he can only hear the thoughts of his own shadow guard, Shiqi.

At court, the ministers argue endlessly, while Shiqi's live commentary plays in his ears: "That mustache is sticking up so much, you could hang an arrow on it." "There's a wormhole in the dragon throne's carving. It needs patching."

Chu Ce calmly reviews memorials and quietly gives his "chatty" shadow guard a raise.

When Shiqi is injured and feverish, his muddled thoughts turn soft and clingy: "The medicine is bitter... Master's sleeves are pretty..."

Chu Ce makes a note of his dislike of bitter things, and after Shiqi recovers, he keeps "accidentally" leaving sweets in front of him.

On the night of the palace coup, Chu Ce is injured protecting Shiqi. As his consciousness fades, he hears that ever-muttering voice crack with tears for the first time:

"Don't die... What am I supposed to do if you die..."

With effort, he opens his eyes and wipes the blood from his little shadow guard's face.

"Don't be afraid." He smiles hoarsely. "Is today's osmanthus cake... sweet or savory?"

Shiqi freezes, tears pattering down.

Before passing out, Chu Ce finally hears the tearful thought:

"...Sweet, you idiot."

Later, the new emperor takes the throne, and Chu Ce resigns from office.

As their carriage leaves the capital, Shiqi hesitates for a long time before asking quietly, "Master, will you still be able to hear what your subordinate is thinking from now on...?"

Chu Ce pulls him into his arms and smiles with his eyes closed.

"Yes."

"Only yours."

"For the rest of our lives."