Chapter 1: First puzzle can (not) show

"As long as there is art, there will be humanity. Art is the only thing that fulfills me. I have nothing else left in this promised land. If art dies, so do I."  

   "I can't condone the path you tread. A path that dances dangerously close to the abyss of war.

Not any war...World War IV.

Anyway, we learned each other's secrets. For it seems, one of us will have to die."

Bijeljina, 08:00 am. 

    "Are you sure this is the right address? 

This place looks like a public institution. Would you target a person who works in such a place?"

"They target people by compatibility, not by social status or job title. Don't be stupid and go in."

"Stop giving orders. You're nothing without me."

"The same goes for you, Niksha."

Beep. Beep. Beep. 

He hung up. 

For whatever reason, silence felt heavy after he hung up. Why do I even tolerate him?

The air thickened and I couldn't shake the feeling that someone is watching me. Someone is always watching. I am in front of the Cultural Center. 

The building was composed of blue windows, the size of which was more than two meters. It had only three floors. Three floors are not enough. They are not in theory, but things have changed. For example, law. Although everyone is now equal, people have become even more depressed and dense than usual.

This world is undeniably cursed.

I entered the building. I'm in the big hall. The directions are clear, and I head upstairs to get to the dance studio. There was a door with the inscription "Dance Club - Freedom" behind which loud music could be heard. Freedom, huh? Ironic, isn't it?

But dance...     Dance is an art form, but at the same time not just that. It's a language of soul. 

Dancing is a dialogue. 

Dialogue between a soul and the body. 

One person and others. 

One heart with many. 

One heart with another's. 

But. 

What's this happy catchy music? 

What can these misguided souls can express in this day and age with this music? This music really is symbolising their ignorance. I knew kids are stupid, but this is whole new level. Nowadays, only a fool can play with that false sense of freedom. There is no thing that can be celebrated, I am convinced of that.

   "Aren't you going to come in?"

A voice formed behind me. She freaked me out for a second.The voice belonged to a woman. Between 20-30 years. She has a really weird hairstyle made of braids connected into two rings, one side each. Black, very thick hair. She's slim. Of course she is. She's probably a dance coach.

    "Good afternoon! I'm sorry, but I didn't know what words to choose. You know, I want to enroll my son in these classes because it's his wish, but I'm a little uncomfortable... because you know... Well, he's a boy , so that's why!"

    "Please! In the year 2049? Relax! It's more shocking that you have a kid who could show up to dance class on his own. You look like you're in your early thirties!"

    "Thanks, but I think you're exaggerating." 

    "Yeah. So where's your kid?" she looked around thinking he was nearby.

    "He's not with me, unfortunately. He's too shy, he promised to come tomorrow. He's just a 5 year old, but he can attend classes by himself. We live close, afterall. I just wanted to ask about all the information about the dance lessons." 

    "What is that you wish to hear? she asked, curiosity flickering her eyes. 

    "How much? Also how many hours per week are calculated?" 

    "You know that today everything goes through the state authorities. In this world and age, we are all equal. Well, of course, our salaries too. The bills will come to you along with utility bills. Just like everything else." 

    "Are you saying you make the same salary as a doctor?" 

"We are all equal. The doctor and the dance instructor. Both have their roles, which are equal in our country."

    "I understand that only a fool would accept a lower salary, but what if you have the potential for much more money. Don't you feel bad for that? 

    "Sir, this is not why you have come, I hope. Lessons are three times a week. The child may appear as early as tomorrow with or without you. Now, allow me to continue with my lessons. Have a great day."

She left me in a long hall. I didn't even get to ask her other questions. Even if she has altered DNA, there's no way I could find that out with just one conversation. I'll try tomorrow. I will need my son's help.

Tommorow:

Son's POV:

I showed up at the address without any problems. Maybe I should have dressed a little more appropriately. They will probably have some fitting wardrobe that I can wear there. I entered the blue building and went upstairs and immediately knocked on the door. 

"Good morning! I'm Niksha's son! Nikola! I've come to the first class!" I said with a wry smile. 

    "Ah...you look just like your father..." 

    "Am I that handsome?" 

    "I meant...serious, haha." 

This bitch... She probably tried to insult me. It doesn't matter. I entered the room. It was full of mirrors, lightly decorated room with great smell. My head hurts from this body. The music was like something I would hear in cartoons. Probably because it's a children's program. Speaking of children, there were... hmm one, two, three... twelve! 

I greeted every kid, dumb bunch. One was standing out, to be completely honest. Serious guy. I'll have to be convincing. 

Little did I know at this point that one mistake would lead to the death of all these children.