Zhang Xiaohua climbed onto the roof, bent down, pressed his ear to it, and listened carefully. From within the hall came a respectful voice. "Vice Lord Dan, you think so highly of this lowly one that you even allowed me to see something so secret. I am truly grateful beyond measure."
Another, somewhat aged voice spoke up. "Flag Bearer Gao, gathering a sufficient number of girls within the stipulated time was already a great merit. Not to mention that you ought to be rewarded, this task itself was merely a test for several flag bearers. We all have important matters to attend to and cannot remain here long-term. This estate is the foundation of our Howling Heaven Order. Without someone capable and dependable to oversee it, we cannot rest easy."
Flag Bearer Gao's voice trembled slightly. "Could it be... Lord... this lowly one's abilities are shallow. I fear that though my heart is willing, my strength may fall short, and I may disappoint you."
The lord said, "No matter, Flag Bearer Gao. Ah, I should call you Steward Gao in advance. Our intention is to establish a council of stewards above the existing stewards, selecting several additional stewards to jointly manage the Order's affairs. What do you think?"
Flag Bearer Gao sounded both disappointed and excited. "That is indeed how it should be, Vice Lord Dan. Thank you, Lord, for your promotion and care."
After that, one flattered while the other basked in it, and they went on with an endless stream of nonsense. Seeing that night had completely fallen, Zhang Xiaohua felt utterly helpless. Just as he was about to flip down from the roof, find one or two people, seize them, and interrogate them for details, he heard Flag Bearer Gao say again from within the hall, "Lord,