Voices came from all directions at Merrick, resounding around the room like an unorganized symphony. The Duke's bedchamber had become a den of disorder.
"WHEET!"
The sharp blast of Merrick's whistle prompted the rowdy crowd of men to be silent and come to order.
He gave them all a heated glare and cursed, "DAMN IT!—It's so loud I can't even hear myself think."
"This is the last time I will repeat myself, gentlemen!"
His lips drew into a snarl as he growled a warning at the knights. "Keep your voices down. If I have to say it again, I will throw all of you out of here myself. It needs to be silent so the doctor can do his work."
A hushed silence descended on the room, and stillness settled over Merrick as the men abruptly ceased their conversations.
He turned to where his commander lay on the bed and observed the doctor listening to his heart while closely monitoring his condition.
