Ahiru had never been a fan of the dark. She wasn't scared, but a warm light had always been more comforting to her. Fakir always joked their house would light up like a jack-o-lantern every day if she had her way.

Well tonight it glows brighter than she could ever imagine. The flames dance around, consuming the structure and all the hopes and dreams they had poured into it. They had built it together right on the lake she so adored, far from town, but quiet and peaceful. Ahiru can't recall all the things they had said they'd achieve here. Fakir would publish his first book. She would feed the ducks and teach ballet on the weekends. Maybe a few children of their own would pop into their lives. Now that Drosselmeyer was gone, anything was possible.

But it seems they won't be able to escape their childhood, no matter what.

"Ahiru!" She finally was able to tear her eyes away from the disaster and saw Fakir arriving with the fire department. "Thank God, you're safe!" He didn't hesitate to wrap his arms around her, and shove his face in her sooty hair.

And Ahiru, well all she could do was hug him even tighter as the tears started to well up. "Fakir! Everything was good…I-I was going to bed but then," The sobs started up, but Fakir tenderly held her face in his hands.

"I was so worried when I heard the news. Don't worry, we're both alright, that's all that matters."

'But Drosselmeyer's back!" She cried. "Everything we've worked for is gone!"

"I have everything," The statement surprised her, and Ahiru looked up to see that Fakir was on the verge of tears as well. "I have you. That's all I need. I don't know what I'd do if he took you from me."

There is so much to talk about, so much to do. But for now, the two of them can only cry as they watch what left of their life can be saved before it's too late.