There was a bit of a pause, though not as startled as when Karin had announced that she was planning to challenge up two ranks. Carmilla was the housekeeper, but she'd also, in a way, been Argine's right-hand woman. A Nine and the Queen's lady-in-waiting.

"I'm considering several candidates," he said, tilting his head to one side. "You are among them.

"Why do you think you'd be the best choice?"