In a vivid scene from "The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan, a character is described tying her blonde hair back with a piece of denim. The setting by the river casts a fiery glow that highlights her grey eyes, creating an image of resilience and beauty despite her rough appearance. She may look beat-up and like she’s seen better days, but to Percy, she embodies grace and strength in a dire situation.

Even though they find themselves in the perilous realm of Tartarus with little hope for survival, Percy's feelings for her overshadow the danger, filling him with joy. This highlights a deeper theme of connection and affection amid chaos, showing that companionship can bring light even in the darkest places. Percy’s inclination to smile reflects his appreciation for their bond, reinforcing the importance of being together against the odds.