In "The Battle of the Labyrinth" by Rick Riordan, the protagonist reflects on a significant moment from the past when he and Annabeth shared a tender goodbye. During that farewell, she kissed him for good luck as he faced the dangers of Mount St. Helens, symbolizing their bond and support for one another. The memory evokes a sense of nostalgia and connection between the characters.

This time, however, the departure feels different and somewhat more solemn. Instead of a kiss, the protagonist receives only a hat from Annabeth, indicating a shift in their relationship dynamic. It highlights the changes they’ve both undergone and sets the tone for the challenges ahead, emphasizing the weight of their experiences and the uncertainty that lies before them.