499 The tests (4)

"She was right in doing so, not only because of the rules but because many promising mercenaries ended up dying because they overestimated their abilities. That's why we enforced this rule. Do not take offense," the Examiner said.

"No offense taken," Erik replies. "Good, now let's wait five minutes to rest. Would you like something to drink? There is a vending machine outside," the Examiner said.

Erik politely declined, saying, "No, sir, thank you."

The Examiner, having observed the entire performance, finally spoke. "All right, then, let's start by saying that was an impressive performance, Erik. Let's go through the scoring, shall we?"