Although he would prefer to write short stories, he earns a living composing obituaries for a newspaper. He longs to see his work published, yet the subjects of his obituaries continue to cling to life. But when he opens the newspaper to find his work in print for the first time, his pride swiftly turns to terror. Viktor and Misha's ensuing adventures with the Mafia lead to their separation and Viktor is forced to embark on a dangerous quest to recover his lost pet.