Quote:
Originally Posted by
DumbledoRO 
Enrico gulped when he saw the Sphinx bare its teeth. Sure, it could be smiling......but more likely than not, it was just preparing to devour him,
And that's why I don't work with Magical Creatures....he thought nervously, taking a deep breath. I'd rather tinkle with Muggle eckletronics and deal with Quibbler stories all day than face a Sphinx in the breakroom...
And with that final thought, he squared his shoulders and prepared to answer.
"So...let's see...something give....returned...but never borrowed...can't be a gift...." he mumbled his thoughts out loud, careful not to give a definite answer. "Maybe a smile.....?" He stared at the Sphinx, almost daring it to leap at his answer. "No wait, no wait," Rico held up a tan hand. "I got it. Thank you. A thank you! Gracias, Merci, Grazie, and 10,000 other warm thanks!"
He almost felt like bowing. If it was right....
The Sphinx stood, towering over him in what was likely a very menacing posture. It stepped forward toward him...
And then walked to one side, bowing its head once.
"And with this answer; safe passage is yours."
It sat, giving Enrico a moment to flee. He'd better hurry before he changed his mind, too... The Sphinx was really hungry.