The snow lay thick over Frostholm, sparkling in the first rays of Christmas morning. Smoke curled lazily from chimneys, and a crisp wind carried the scent of pine and roasting meats across the village. The town had never looked more alive. Decorations glittered from every rooftop and streetlamp; wreaths of holly and ribbons adorned every door. The joyous sound of children laughing and caroling filled the air, mingling with the hearty voices of families preparing for the feast ahead.
Roger, still tired and sore from the battles of the past week, stood at the edge of the rebuilt workshop with Milo and Santa, gazing at the horizon. "I can't believe how far we've come," Milo said, rubbing a patch of snow from his coat. "Four days ago, this place was a war zone. Now…" He trailed off, watching the elves bustling around, stacking toys, and hammering the final planks into place.
"Now it's Christmas," Santa replied with a gentle smile. "And we've got work to do before it truly begins."
That night, as the stars shone like scattered diamonds over the North Pole, Roger, Milo, and Santa took to the skies. Sleigh bells jingled, and the horses pawed the snow as they prepared to deliver gifts to children across the globe. The air was sharp and cold, but the warmth of the mission—bringing joy to countless children—was enough to push away the weariness. Roger's heart soared alongside the sleigh, the rush of flight mingling with the knowledge that Frostholm was finally safe.
By morning, the town had awoken to a celebration unlike any before. Families poured into the village square, singing Christmas carols that rang through the mountains and echoed across the frozen landscape. Tables groaned under the weight of a magnificent feast, roasted meats steaming alongside sweet pastries, spiced cider, and golden breads. Children ran through the snow, their cheeks rosy, while parents laughed and shared stories of the past year.
The people of Frostholm had not forgotten the cost of their freedom. Among the laughter and light, there were pauses for remembrance. Candles flickered on every table in honor of the elves, soldiers, and villagers who had lost their lives defending the town. And yet, the shadow of fear that once hung over the village had lifted—the goblins would never terrorize them again.
As the festivities continued, the villagers approached Roger, Milo, and Santa with heartfelt gratitude. Small crowds gathered, placing medals into their hands, praising their courage and honor. Children tugged at Roger's coat, asking him questions about the battles, though they had only glimpsed the danger from afar. Milo laughed as a group of kids tried to mimic his heroic poses, and Santa only shook his head, chuckling.
Roger's own family made their way through the crowd. His father, Harlan, his mother, Selene, and his little sister, Emmy, all smiled with pride. Harlan clapped a hand on Roger's shoulder, Selene pulled him into a warm hug, and Emmy squealed, planting a kiss on his cheek. And then there was Liora, standing a few steps away, her green eyes sparkling with joy. Roger approached her, and she gently lifted her fingers to his lips before leaning in for a soft kiss—their first proper kiss, unspoken, but filled with everything they had been feeling since their meeting.
They walked together to the edge of the town, where the snow shimmered under the afternoon sun. Roger, Liora, Milo, Santa, and his family all settled on a low hill, looking out over Frostholm. The town glowed with the laughter of families, the sparkle of decorations, and the warmth of shared joy.
Roger took a deep breath of the crisp northern air, feeling the weight of everything that had happened—the battles, the loss, the victories. And he realized something profound: Christmas wasn't just about gifts or feasts or decorations. It was about connection, courage, and the choice to protect what matters most. It was about giving, even when fear loomed, and celebrating life in all its fragile, beautiful forms.
"Maybe this is what it really means," Roger whispered, more to himself than anyone else. "Christmas is about bravery, love, and never giving up on the people who need you… even when it feels impossible."
The sun began to dip toward the horizon, painting the sky in shades of gold, pink, and deep violet. For the first time in weeks, Roger felt a stillness within him. Milo leaned back, whistling softly, Santa adjusted his hat, and Liora rested her head lightly against his shoulder. The snow sparkled around them, the air filled with laughter, music, and the quiet glow of victory.
Frostholm was safe. Their loved ones were close. And for one perfect, fleeting moment, the world felt at peace.