Sophia and Alyona Golosovsky

Sophia and Alyona Golosovsky are the two young girls who disappear at the start of the novel. After their parents split, the sisters grow accustomed to occupying themselves while their mother is at work. During an afternoon late in their summer vacation, the girls play near the water at the city center. Though Alyona laments having to spend every day with her sister, she is deeply protective of her and loves her. Throughout their time near the water, Alyona watches out for Sophia's safety, warning her against danger and telling her stories to distract her from trouble.

Alyona proves herself even more sensitive when she attempts to help Yegor despite his wicked intentions. Even after he offers to give the girls a ride home, Alyona tries to maintain a level head, weighing the potential dangers of getting into his car. It is not until the...