The days had passed in a blur, and eventually, Peizhi's punishment had ended.
The days of confinement had been unbearable, much like hell for her , the long days of staring out the window, listening to the distant sounds of the courtyard, and feeling the frustration of being locked away while life went on without her.
But now, she was free.
The days passed by in a blur with an air of peace all over the mansion, there was no stirring trouble, just peace and quiet. Not until. . .
The sky was a soft shade of blue, with wisps of white clouds drifting lazily.
The morning breeze carried the scent of damp earth and blooming flowers. Peizhi stepped outside with her maid, Xiliu into the courtyard behind her chambers.
She inhaled deeply, savoring the crisp air as she twirled happily in her flurry of silk robe .
"Finally, peace". She murmured, stretching her arms and inhaling the cool breeze.
Xiliu' who was standing beside her , filled with equal vigor grinned. "For now. Until someone stirs up trouble again."
Peizhi chuckled. " Then let's make the most of it before then ". She added and they both erupted in a bout of giggle but just then, her eyes caught a swift movement.
A pair of plump, white rabbits dashing about in erratic circles. Their tiny feet barely made a sound as they scurried over the grass, their ears flicking back and forth.
And almost immediately, Peizhi and Xiliu exchanged knowing glances.
"I think this is the perfect weather to hunt and roast rabbits," Peizhi said, her lips curling into a mischievous smile as she stretched her body .
Xiliu didn't need further instruction. The thrill of the hunt sent a surge of excitement through them as they leaped forward, their laughter filling the courtyard.
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Minutes later, the scent of roasted rabbit filled the air. A makeshift fire crackled between them, its flames flickering against the golden-brown meat skewered above it.
Fat dripped onto the embers, hissing as the aroma of the seasoned rabbit grew stronger and stronger .
Peizhi tore off a piece, tenderly blowing on it before taking a bite. The tender meat melted in her mouth, rich and smoky from the fire.
"This,". She sighed, closing her eyes in bliss as she munched . "This is exactly what I needed."
Xiliu nodded enthusiastically, her mouth full. "Everything feels so peaceful these days . No nagging, no punishments, just good food and quiet. I coul live like this forever ."
They both laughed, enjoying the rare moment of tranquility.
But peace, as always, was fleeting.
A sudden, desperate shout pierced the air.
"XIAOBAI!"
Peizhi froze mid-bite, her teeth sinking into the succulent meat as another voice joined the first.
"XIAOBAI! WHERE ARE YOU?"
The shouting grew louder, more frantic, more voices calling out the name in unison.
Peizhi and Xiliu could only look at each other, eyebrows raised questioningly, wondering what was wrong .
"That sounds like Lady Zeitan " Xiliu muttered, chewing slowly.
Peizhi's couldn't agree more and she sighed. "What is she wailing about now?"
More voices joined in the shouts their cries overlapping as they scoured the grounds.
Peizhi glanced down at her half-eaten rabbit leg, then back toward the voices as she chewed . "What do you think they're looking for?".
Xiliu shrugged. "Who knows? Probably some jewelry or trinket she misplaced or a pet . Only she knows ."
Neither of them felt compelled to investigate. Instead, they continued to enjoy their meal, listening passively as the frantic search continued.
On the other side of the garden , Zeitan and her maids were relentless in their search.
"I don't care what it takes,I don't care where you search and how you look for it just find Xiaobai at all costs!" her voice rang out sharply. "Or it'll spell doom for you all".
Peizhi lazily reached for another piece of meat when she heard footsteps approaching.
Before she could react, Zeitan and her maids burst into the backyard, her eyes red and teary.
Her usually well-groomed and angelic like appearance was slightly disheveled, her hairpins askew from her frantic running.
"Sister". She wailed, rushing forward.
Peizhi, startled by the sudden invasion , held up a hand. "What is it now? Did someone steal your favorite comb or did you misplace your rogue or are you looking for attention ?"
Zeitan paused and sniffled. "It's Xiaobai! My precious Xiaobai is missing! Have you seen him anywhere around?. "
Peizhi frowned. "Xiaobai?"
"Yes. My rabbit , xiaobai ". Zeitan replied and just then the maids hurried back, their faces etched with concern.
"Miss, we still can't find Xiaobai! We've searched everywhere!"
Zeitan's expression twisted with despair. She turned back to Peizhi , her voice trembling. "Peizhi , if you've seen him, please tell me!"
Peizhi barely heard her.
A strange feeling had settled in her stomach, a gnawing unease that coiled around her like a snake.
She turned to Xiliu.
Xiliu turned to her.
Then the realization hit them at the same time.