[ That stops Miles' breath for a moment in surprise. A female successor? Unprecedented, to say the least. Unless one considers Lord Midnight, of course ... He suppresses the urge to pace, but only because he doesn't want to let go of Bel.

He doesn't object. Does he? Well - not personally, absolutely not. Politically he could be stepping into a great crock of shit, with his own position dangerously tenuous. Would Da approve? ... Oh yes. Yes, he's certain of that.

That thought cements him in an instant. He straightens, meeting Donna's gaze just as intensely. ]

Count's choice over count's blood. [ A pause. ] I wonder, though - did you decide to approach me before or after seeing my partner?