With her decision made, Nala turned her head and gave a sharp nod to the small band of musicians in the corner. They grinned in response, their instruments already in hand.
Instantly, the cheerful tavern music faded, replaced by a new rhythm. It was a sultry, mesmerizing melody that spoke of shifting sands, starry desert nights, and ancient magic.
The thrumming of an oud laid the foundation, while the sharp, hypnotic beat of a darbuka drum set a pace that made one's own heart beat in time.
Every eye was on her and the tavern fell into a hushed, reverent silence.
Nala then took a deep breath, glancing at Cassius one last time as if to draw strength from his rapt attention, before she closed her eyes, centering herself.
The flustered girl vanished and when she opened them again, the look in their depths was entirely different.
It was sultry, passionate, and held a fiery confidence that stole the breath from every person watching.
The dance began.
