When Shen Hao returned home from the garrison, he stepped inside and saw Xia Nu and another graceful figure gathered around the water vat in the courtyard, laughing and playing—most likely feeding the fish in the vat.
"Master Shen's back?"
The door was opened by Xiaoma. His full name was Ma Jiu Fu. Right now, he was temporarily taking over as steward, replacing Hu Tian, whose leg was broken and hadn't fully healed yet—of course, he only managed the affairs, not the accounts. Hu Tian still kept a tight grip on the household finances and wasn't comfortable handing them over to Ma Jiu Fu.
Shen Hao grunted in acknowledgment and walked towards the main hall, saying to Xiaoma as he went, "Tonight, a few Xuanqing Guard warriors will be coming over. Keep an eye out. If they need anything, help them arrange it."
"Yes, Master Shen. Understood. You go inside and rest, have a cup of tea. Dinner will be ready soon."
