Page 78 of Seduced By a Scoundrel

“We do not wish to learn the quadrille,” Sophie said.

“And Jane’s mother has us reciting proper ballroom etiquette before we are allowed a single sip of tea,” Margaret said. “It takes a very long time, and the tea always goes cold.”

“She says a gentleman would not wish to marry a lady who guzzles her tea,” Jane added.

“Your mother is awful.”

“I know.”

Sybil watched them as they stepped inside the ballroom, still chatting. They fell silent when they realized the dance floor was mostly filled with targets. And an obstacle course. A basket of rapiers sat by the door.

“Oh, now this is a ballroom,” Sophie exclaimed. “Sybil, you never said.”

Margaret nodded. “I like the quadrille,” she said. “But I shall like this too.”

Jane looked unsure. But also curious.

“It’s Jane’s first Season,” Sophie explained. “And as we are not out yet, we shan’t be there to protect her.” She lowered her voice. “She’s very nice.”

“And her mother really is a nightmare,” Margaret added.

Jane frowned. “And I’m right here.” She sighed. “But they are quite right on both counts.”

Sybil grinned. “Never fear. You can be nice and protect yourself.”

“Some of us are much subtler than Sybil,” Peony said, dropping suddenly from a rope above their heads. Jane squeaked. “Not me, mind you.” Peony dusted chalk off her hands. “But others.”

“Ladies, meet Peony,” Sybil said. “You will hate her by the end of the day, but you will thank her later.”

Peony preened a little. “I don’t need to be loved,” she said. “I only need to be effective.” She circled them, focused and slightly unnerving. “Pugilism, I think. Every lady needs to know how to plant a proper facer. And we’ll have Priya make up some teas for you in the meantime. But first, you’ll run the obstacle course so I can assess your skills.”

Jane gulped. Even Sophie shifted uncertainly.

“Oh, you will positively despise Peony,” Sybil grinned. “Almost as much as you hate the obstacles.” Particularly crawling on their bellies under the wooden platform.

“When was the last time you went through the course, Sybil?” Peony narrowed her eyes.

“This week! With you!”

“You threw daggers and climbed a rope and sighed over a handful of letters. That hardly signifies.”

Sybil groaned. Loudly.