Shi Chun's wariness toward Duan Xiangmei, an outsider, was something Wu Jinliang could sense. He barely spoke in her presence anymore. That was understandable enough. Once they had exchanged greetings and gotten acquainted, he let Duan Xiangmei get back to work.
After they walked around outside the new residence for a while longer, Young Master Nan had other business to attend to. He arranged a dinner with Shi Chun and left.
Before leaving, he suggested that Shi Chun keep a spirit pet in the residence. His point was roughly that, although this area had a protective formation, having something to guard their own home would, if nothing else, make it easier to notice anyone approaching.
He offered this advice because he felt their own defensive strength was rather weak. Entrusting their safety entirely to outsiders was unreliable.
Then came a string of remarks about fragrant grass growing everywhere under heaven, and how a grown man need not hang himself from a single tree.
After seeing Young Master Nan off, Shi Chun watched the departing carriage, still somewhat puzzled, and asked the man beside him, "Jinliang, what does he mean by fragrant grass growing everywhere under heaven? This doesn't seem to be the first time he's said that to me. He must have said it several times now. Since he keeps bringing it up, is there some deeper meaning?"
Wu Jinliang looked curious. "Has he? I'll ask him for you later."
With the outsider gone, Shi Chun asked about Xiang Lan'er again.
Wu Jinliang said Xiang Lan'er was living in the home she had won as a prize. He had invited her to move in with them, but she had refused.
Shi Chun understood and said nothing more. He called Wu Jinliang over to join him in the quiet chamber inside,