During the Tang Dynasty, Qi Qiong served as a high-ranking officer in the prestigious Imperial Guard and maintained a grand household that reflected his elevated position at court. Among his prized possessions was a pack of exceptional hunting dogs, renowned throughout the capital for their speed, agility, and keen tracking instincts. These noble hounds were not merely pets; they frequently accompanied the Emperor himself on expansive hunting expeditions across the vast imperial grounds. Because of their vital service to the realm and the pride they brought to his estate, Qi Qiong ensured they were treated with utmost care, providing them with lavish quarters and feeding them the finest cuts of meat available.
Despite this lavish treatment, one of the hounds began exhibiting a peculiar habit that baffled the household staff during the morning feedings. Instead of devouring its generous portion alongside its companions, the dog would carefully stuff its mouth with as much food as it could carry, trot away toward the dense foliage behind the estate’s bushes, and quickly return to fetch another mouthful. Qi Qiong observed this repeated behavior with growing curiosity and suspicion, wondering if the animal was hiding a stash or suffering from an unusual compulsion. Determined to uncover the truth behind his hound’s mysterious behavior, the officer instructed a trusted servant to follow the animal covertly into the far corners of the property.
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