Hermia dropped into a hurried curtsy once she realized the conversation was at an end, even if no formal goodbye was given. She didn't receive this as a slight, Mr. Echelon already established himself as something of a novelty, and Hermia was pleased something interesting happened this evening that did not involve an avalanche of debutants tripping down the stairs (after a Hogwarts career as Jemima Farley's housemate, Hermia was always slightly anticipating disaster).

She was off to find a friend when her eclectic companion spoke again. Startled by the abrupt change of pace, Hermia attempted (and mostly failed) to stifle a laugh. It was rude to refuse a gentleman's invitation to dance, but images of all the ways an oblivious-to-Society artist and a witch too tall and not yet debuting could cause a scene had her eye sparkling with amusement. Still, she was careful to be courteous in her refusal. "Forgive me, Mr. Echelon. I must return to my friends. A few might never forgive me if I monopolized the attention of the most interesting partner in the room. But do write soon, I look forward to seeing your painting." She gave him another quick curtsey and a genuine grin. He'd been most interesting indeed.

---