Nevertheless, Rabi was a more promising choice than the unknown people whose identities and loyalties remained uncertain. Lina desperately needed someone she could gradually learn to trust, and at present, Rabi was her best option. As long as her alliance with the Duke of Anjou remained intact, Rabi was unlikely to betray her without reason. If their interests ever came into conflict, Lina would deal with that problem when it arose.
She had also considered the four servants sent by the Duke of Champagne. After observing them for several days, however, she was increasingly convinced that their inability to speak was genuine. They seemed to have difficulty hearing as well, often relying on gestures and lip movements to understand even simple instructions. Apart from carrying out their assigned duties, they showed little initiative and rarely expressed any personal opinions.
