The Modern Mantle Saga

If the Saga happened today, it would probably be a Miss America pageant:

The final five contestants stand in a line on the stage. Arthur, the night’s host, takes center stage with a big smile. “We have one question left to ask you, ladies, then we will decide who is our next Miss America.”

The audience applauds as the ladies grin and wave in nervous excitement.

“Contestant number one, please step forward.”

She does and the spotlight follows her to the standing mic.

Arthur takes the question card from his blazer pocket, does a double take at the card, and tries to keep a cheerful tone as he reads, “The final question for contestant number one is… um… ‘how many men have you slept with?’”

The audience gasps. The contestant’s smile falters. She gives a nervous laugh and says, “I’m not sure I’m comfortable answering that question, Arthur.”

“You know what, you’re right. Let’s ask our judges.”

Judges Meon, Kay, and Valven put their heads together and discuss for a moment. “Nope, we want to know the answer to this question,” says Kay. “We want to make sure that our new Miss America is not a disgrace to her beloved.”

“Well, okay then,” says Arthur. “Contestant, do you have an answer?”

The contestant smiles and leans toward the mic, “None but my beloved Paternas.”

In an instant, the spotlight turns red.

“Oh, I’m sorry. It seems you’ve lied,” says Arthur. “Next contestant?”

The remaining contestants try other answers to please the judges, but each one gets a red spotlight. The audience murmurs in disappointment. Kay, especially, is disapproving of the contestants.

“It would appear that none of our contestants can tell the truth about this matter,” says Arthur. “Therefore, we will have to search for a new Miss America. Tune in next week to find out who it is!”