The room was silent enough that a spider running past could have been heard as the apprentices stared at the Duke with wide eyes. However, they were well-trained enough to bow their heads so that the Duke wouldn't have to be sent such incredulous expressions. It could be seen as disobedience to some. He wasn't outwardly a strict man but his status demanded respect.
Since they were silent, Sir Gunnar took it upon himself to fabricate an appropriate response. Even he was blindsided by the request.
The Duke didn't tell him that what he was requesting from the apprentices was something so massive in scale. The Royal Family had to be handled with kid gloves because even a slight misunderstanding could lead to severe punishment.
"What an honor, Commander," the knight responded. "How lucky they are to be chosen for such a prestigious task."
Felix, who was far more comfortable with the Duke than the other two found the courage to speak up next.
