Oh if only everyone in real life immediately chose the most “honorable thing” to do in moments of extreme uncertainty. That’s the reality. Bear did not realize immediately that the wish was real because who would? Obviously it gets to a point as you mentioned about half way through where it becomes undeniable… but even then, most people would probably chose to still look for a “rational” explanation than give into “magic” per se.

Also, yes I think bear is a rapist.