Cantarella

The only sounds in the dark hallway were thumping heartbeats.

"The elder is waiting for you." The secretary standing outside the door glanced at the examiner who had been waiting for a long time. He said indifferently, "As etiquette requires, do not speak unless there are questions after reporting. Do not raise your head and look into his eye. Don't have a smart mouth, understood?"

"Understood." The examiner nodded respectfully. His face was a bit pale and he could not breathe as if his collar was too tight.

"This is for your own good." The secretary patted his shoulder and pushed open the door without waiting for his reply. The examiner lowered his head and walked into the silent room.