First round

Patricia felt tempted to give a single incorrect answer, just to learn what kind of transformation she could draw afterwards. Of course some of the transformations were highly undesirable and much more could be a nuisance. But enough positive, or at least neutral, ones remained so the contestant could feel the temptation. Her inner discipline prevailed though and she answered all of the questions correctly.

Gibraltar, a strategically important territory which allows the United Kingdom to control the entrance and exit to the Mediterranean Sea, was captured from Spain in 1704 during which war? War of the Spanish Succession. Correct. The year 1960 is referred to as the Year of Africa because seventeen African nations gained independence, including two former British colonies. Which of the following were those colonies? Somalia and Nigeria. Correct. Which city was the capital of the British Bengal Presidency? Calcutta. Correct. The First Fleet of British colonists arrived in Australia and found Sydney in which year? 1788. Correct. England conquered the Spanish colony of Jamaica in which year? 1655. Correct.

“Congratulations, Patricia, a flawless round,” Frank announced, “but this also means that you won’t get a chance to draw any rejuvenating transformations.”

“My personal goals have a lesser priority than my professional ones.”

“But isn’t advertising Oxbridge University one of your main goals? If you storm through the show without a single transformation it won’t be overly entertaining and thus its advertising factor will be limited,” the host said in a serious voice.

“I haven’t thought about it that way,” Patricia admitted. She pondered for a moment, then added, “I’m genuinely torn right now. I wish I had more time to analyse your suggestion, but the show must go on, doesn’t it?”

“It certainly does,” the host replied, “I can give you some time to think though. Hopefully you’ll be able to entertain the audience a bit in the process. We already know that you consider the rejuvenating transformations to be desirable. Which one would you consider tolerable?”

“I don’t remember them all,” the contestant answered, “I spent more time memorising trivia, rather than the transformations themselves. But as a general rule I don’t mind those which would allow me to live my life normally, as I did so far,” she pondered for a moment, then continued, “colours of eyes, lips or nails, minor wardrobe changes. Flexibility certainly sounds like a healthy skill.”

“The list may be longer than you think,” Frank replied, “thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. I believe we’re now ready for the Second Round. Which category would you like?”

“French Geography.”