His tone was serious as he said, "So if you're only saying you agree to fool me, get information about what I plan to bid on, and use that information to sabotage me, let's not waste each other's time."
"Damn it. Does everyone think I'm a liar now?" she said in frustration. "I am not a liar. In fact, I am always telling the truth."
"And I'm trustworthy, so your secrets are safe with me. You can tell me anything without worrying about me blabbing."
She was being convincing, but Tepid Scholar didn't believe her. His face remained impassive as he asked, "Are you going to swear or not?"
She could only sigh and say, "Fine. You will have your oath."
"But I'll say this. It is a depraved world we've fallen into now that no one can take another at their word. It is truly a depraved world."
After making one last-ditch effort to fool Tepid Scholar and failing, she swore the oath.
