Crossword Genius

In earlier times it was, we're told, Charles dancing provocatively (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

twerking

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'dancing provocatively' is the definition.
The definition suggests a present participle verb which matches the answer.

'in earlier times it was we're told charles' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'in' is found in the answer.
'it' could be 't' (abbreviation. e.g. in 'tis) and 't' is located in the answer.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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