"Bella, you can slowly ponder deep questions about the worldview here. Margaret, stay and chat with our Earl. It's my turn next."
Miss Benanis instructed, flicking her hair before standing up.
"Yes, teacher."
The satisfied Princess smiled, then watched as the Witch of the Earth took Shard's hand and led him back to the dance floor.
After Miss Benanis, Shard invited Miss Eles as promised. They didn't speak as they danced together, but their eyes seemed to say it all.
Next was Ciris, the young golden-haired girl who excelled at dancing; finally, it was Miss Sylvia, whose wild dancing matched the upbeat rhythm of the music.
When Shard returned to the couch with Miss Sylvia, Miss Benanis was talking to the Countess and Miss Eles about Green Lake:
"Megan and Audrey are truly cunning. They claim to be two people, so when they take turns dancing with Shard, they want to dance twice.
