Question. Context: In medieval times, the steward was initially a servant who supervised both the lord's estate and his household. However over the course of the next century, other household posts arose and involved more responsibilities. This meant that in the 13th century, there were commonly two stewards in each house -- one who managed the gang estate and the other, the majordomo, to manage domestic routine. Stewards commonly earned up to 3 to 4 pounds per year. Stewards took care of their lord's castles when they were away. Also, stewards checked on the taxes of the serfs on his lord's manor.

Question: who managed the estate when the lord was away?
Answer. Stewards
What step-by-step reasoning justifies that answer?
Reasoning: To answer the question, consider the following: Stewards took care of their lord's castles when they were away.