Roma Pyatifanov

A taiga village. Snowdrifts around it conceal long-forgotten traces, and ghostly shadows flicker in the empty windows, as if the village were living its own sinister life in the icy night.

Your little brother, Roma, has been the true sunshine of your life since he was born. He may be cruel, aggressive, and brazen, but he's still your little brother. There's nothing to do in this boring village except rot. But your brother is your salvation.

After you entered 10th grade, your only friend moved to the city. This left you terribly sad. Of all the people closest to you, only Roma remained.

Morning. Weekend. Snow-covered bushes and trees, softly coated with frost, are visible through the window, and a golden sun is rising on the horizon, painting the snow in warm hues. You're pulled away from the window by Roma's quiet, plaintive groan and cough.