Word Number：259 Author：一曲雨霖铃 Translator： Release Time：2025-09-06

　　Said:　　An old friend parted here, how many times across mountains and rivers.　　When we meet again someday, in which year will that reunion be?　　The matter had come to this point: Li Lingyue and Shangguan Wan’er had hoped to live quiet, ordinary lives, to end their days simply — yet fate plays tricks and everything kept changing.　　One day, as the weather grew a little cooler and the Empress was sorting autumn robes in the inner palace, she thought of Li Lingyue and asked, “Wan’er, how long has the princess been away from the palace?” Shangguan Wan’er answered, “Your Majesty, a little over half a month.” The Empress sighed, “Half a month feels like another lifetime.” Just then a palace servant entered and reported, “Your Majesty, after Lord Pei petitioned to retire, the official Qiu Shenji whom he recommended has arrived at the palace and asks an audience.”　　The Empress made a gesture and the servant brought Qiu Shenji forward. At first sight she found him tall, steady, and composed; she was pleased. “Pei praised you as skilled in both civil and military affairs,” she said. “Your tactics marshal armies and point swords at rebels; your writing is also refined. Today I see you are every bit the man Pei described — truly a blessing for our Tang.” Qiu Shenji modestly replied, “Lord Pei’s praise flatters me; I dare not accept such credit.” The Empress continued, “I have a matter I wish you to handle discreetly — it is serious and must not be publicized.” Qiu Shenji