You open in wonder, and contrast it so beautiful with the harsh reality. Aladdin, and the familiar sense of amazement and magic, and possibility of something greater against Gennadiy, thinking of his father, and his stash of bottles, and the harsh reality of hands like mason's bats.

The relationship between the boys, the way they talk to each other, the depths of rivalry that is equally almost affectionate in it's own way. Although like the first half, you maintain it so it could be read either way, it is just so so well done. You guys! <3

Gennadiy was struck by a thought, clear and sharp like an icicle falling from a gutter

Damnnnnn what a brilliant way to describe a thought that just pierces the mind.

Did not expect the bear. Surprise bear! Who doesn't love bears. The way you build the tension up for it's appearance, I was expecting aliens, a military descendant, all sorts, and yet somehow the bear just felt right given the way you had gone with it.

AND THEN IT WAS A PET BEAR!!!! Love it!