[ Jion's actually kind of nervous. But still, when he'd seen a request for takers, he hadn't been able to suppress his curiosity about the sphinx ... especially now that he knows who was asking. Kaoru might say she can fight the phoenix, but it still doesn't feel right to let a teenage girl go barging into the dangerous forest alone. ]

Mmm, you too, huh? [ An awkward laugh as he rubs at his face. ] Gotta admit riddles aren't exactly my strong suit either, but ... I think we'll be able to figure something out. I do watch a lot of movies, so maybe we'll get something I've heard before? If we're lucky, that is.

[ He's kitted up with first-aid supplies and water, just in case, and he double-checks to make sure he has everything before giving Kaoru a nod. ] Ready to go when you are.