Shi Jiu, a modern-day office worker, unexpectedly died from overwork and exhaustion. When he opened his eyes, he found himself transmigrated to ancient times. Before he could even rejoice at his second chance at life, he received terrible news: He had become a shadow guard. His job was to crouch on roof beams every day, protecting his master. His working hours stretched from midnight to midnight, 365 days a year, with no rest. Shi Jiu: … Shi Jiu: Living is fine, but dying is also acceptable. Reborn, Shi Jiu refused to work overtime. He spent his days slacking off, showing up late, leaving early, and generally doing as little as possible. The good news was that he was the least conspicuous of all the shadow guards. For three months, he got away with his slacking without anyone noticing. The bad news? Because his presence was so minimal, his master—the paranoid Tyrant—assigned him to infiltrate Prince Ning’s Manor as an undercover agent. Rumor had it that Prince Ning was a sickly weakling, gasping for breath with every step and coughing three times with every word. He was naturally lazy, utterly lacking in learning or skill, and his days were numbered. On his first day as an undercover agent, Shi Jiu crouched on the roof beam, watching the endless stream of guests arriving at Prince Ning’s Manor. Amidst laughter and clinking cups, they debated state affairs with fervent passion. After pondering for a long time, Shi Jiu reported to his master: Today, His Highness Prince Ning spent the entire day playing pai gow with his guests. A month into his mission, Shi Jiu hid beneath Prince Ning’s carriage, following him to the outskirts of the city to inspect his privately raised troops. He reported to his master: Today, His Highness Prince Ning spent the entire day playing pai gow. Three months into his assignment, Prince Ning suddenly fell gravely ill. Clutching Shi Jiu’s hand, he begged him not to leave. Shi Jiu sat by the bedside, reporting to his master: Prince Ning, driven by his relentless pai gow addiction, has finally exhausted himself into illness. Today, he examined his conscience thrice and vowed never to play pai gow again tomorrow. A year into his mission, Shi Jiu watched Prince Ning’s fully assembled army. Grasping the hand Prince Ning extended toward him, he reported to his master: Today, His Highness Prince Ning invited me to play pai gow with him. Later, Prince Ning finally overthrew the Tyrant and ascended the Dragon Throne as the new Emperor. Shi Jiu lay sprawled on the Dragon Throne, massaging his aching lower back— Who the hell said Prince Ning was on his last legs?! …………………. Just a shadow guard, how did I end up as Empress?! If my boss makes me work 24/7, I’ll just find a new boss.