As Steele's revelations echoed through the chamber, the nobles' faces contorted in outrage and fear, their internal thoughts were a complete contrast to their outward composure.
Lord Colsom's mind raced, 'By the gods, this uncouth brute! To think I entrusted him with such delicate matters. He's nothing more than a common thug with a badge, yet here he stands, airing our dirty laundry as if discussing the weather. I should have him flogged for this impertinence!'
Duke Ravenswood, his complexion ashen, thought furiously: 'Insufferable cur! I paid him a king's ransom for his discretion, and this is how he repays my generosity? To think, a man of my standing, at the mercy of this... this walking scandal sheet. If only I could challenge him to a duel without risking further exposure...'
