The narrator encounters a peculiar creature while resting at the base of larger scales. This monster is a unique blend of various animals, featuring the head of a crocodile adorned with a lion’s mane. Its front half resembles a lion, while the back half appears to be a sleek and hefty hippo. Despite its unusual combination of traits, the creature is surprisingly small, comparable in size to a regular poodle, which prompts the narrator to humorously name it a "hippodoodle."
This whimsical description highlights the imaginative world Rick Riordan creates in "The Red Pyramid." The blend of animal characteristics not only emphasizes the charm and creativity of the story's creatures but also sets a playful tone. The narrator's light-hearted naming of the monster engages the reader and showcases Riordan's talent for blending fantasy with humor.