Li Ming, of course, did not notice this. He waited until the food was almost ready and the aroma was wafting out. Seeing several people salivating, he laughed and patted Chen Qiang on the shoulder, telling him to come out for a chat.
"Brother Ming, what's up?"
Chen Qiang seemed a bit nervous, immediately asking after Li Ming called him out.
"Not much. Just wondering, the guys from your place seem quite spirited. They don't look famished like you, and yet no one came over when I offered food for work. Why is that?"
Li Ming waved his hand, signaling Chen Qiang to relax. Then he asked him, puzzled.
"Well, those guys are all Brother Zhuang and Monkey Brother's subordinates. They carry weapons and oversee the preparation of food and distribution of rations. They're also in charge of maintaining order. If someone steals or bullies others, they intervene. Otherwise, they just stand guard or pass on messages."