The camp was alive with the warmth of the holiday season, a sharp contrast to the chill of the surrounding forest. The towering Yule tree near the Big House twinkled with golden lights, and the scent of roasting marshmallows and honey cakes filled the air. Laughter rang out from every corner as campers bundled in scarves and thick coats, tossing snowballs or gathered around the bonfire sharing stories of the year’s adventures. Even the usually distant and gruff campers like Clarisse had a smile on their face, though it was hidden behind a scowl as she tossed a snowball at Leo. "You’re asking for trouble, Valdez," she growled, though her eyes gleamed with a rare amusement.

Annabeth leaned against a tree, watching Percy and Grover attempt to build the world's most lopsided snowman, while Piper and Jason sat nearby, enjoying the warmth of the fire. “Do you think we’ll ever get a real holiday like this?” Piper asked, tracing a finger along the edge of her mug. Annabeth shrugged, her gaze softening as she watched her friends. “I think this is as close as we get.” Percy glanced up at them, his face flushed from the cold. “Hey, you two coming to join the snowman battle or what?” Grover’s voice echoed from the snow, half-buried under the mess they’d created. Annabeth smiled, shaking her head. “I think we’re better off watching you guys struggle.”