The tale begins with a biblical reference that links joy and dance: "O virgin of Israel, thou shalt . . . go forth in the dances of them that make merry. . . . Then shall the virgin rejoice in the dance." (Jer. 31:4,13). This sets the tone for a narrative that intertwines the sacred with the art of dance, capturing its essence as a divine expression of happiness.

The Arrival of David

Set in the post-Christianization era of Europe, the story introduces Musa, a gifted dancer whose talent is apparent in every step she takes, both in solitude and in company. Her life takes a mystical turn when she encounters a man adorned in royal attire, crowned with gold, who joins her in a dance within a sanctuary. This figure, revealed as David, serves as a celestial envoy from the Virgin Mary.

An Invitation to Eternal Dance

David's mission is to extend an invitation to Musa, offering her a place in Heaven to engage in endless, blissful dancing. He assures her that the heavenly dances far surpass those on Earth in their beauty and joy. However, the offer comes with a stringent condition: Musa must forsake all earthly dances and pleasures until her time on Earth concludes. It is only when David's exquisite melody plays that Musa, realizing the limitations of her human form, agrees to the terms.

Musa's Earthly Sacrifice

Embracing her vow, Musa allows her ankles to be shackled, choosing to live as a recluse dedicated to penitence. Her secluded life, however, draws many who seek her counsel and prayers, and her touch bestows the gift of grace upon awkward girls. After three years of this existence, Musa dresses as a bride and passes away, leaving behind an earthly world marked by the beauty of green leaves and flowers, as a silvery sound heralds the breaking of her chains. Witnesses see her ascension, led by a majestic king, to join the countless radiant dancers in Heaven.

A Celestial Gathering

On significant heavenly celebrations, the nine Muses from the underworld are invited to participate in the festivities. Musa finds herself seated beside Saint Cecilia and Terpsichore, the Greek muse of dance. Meanwhile, the Virgin Mary expresses her longing for the Muses' permanent presence in Paradise.

The Muses' Misstep

In an effort to impress, the Muses inadvertently fall out of favor in the celestial realm. They prepare a hymn of praise, organizing themselves into dual quartets with Urania as the lead. Unfortunately, their song, though harmonious in the Lower World, transforms in Heaven into something discordant and almost rebellious, evoking a profound homesickness in the heavenly dwellers.

The Heavens' Response

Ultimately, the Most High quells the Muses' song with a resounding thunder, marking their banishment from the sacred gates. This underscores a divine displeasure and draws a clear boundary between earthly and heavenly expressions of art.