"Congratulations. By decree of the Oracle, I am here to announce that your accomplishments on behalf of your clan and our world have won you the highest honor. You are to be mated."
Stunned, Reg gaped at the message bearer. Panic took root in his stomach and made him feel slightly ill at this unexpected and unwanted turn of events. He wanted to rail against the injustice. Plead for mercy. Then sanity prevailed along with a deep-seated need for self-preservation.
"Never. Not happening. I'd rather get sucked into a black hole." To punctuate his stubborn words, Reg crossed his arms and glared at messenger of bad news on the view screen.
The light blue face of the Oracle's attendant creased in puzzlement. "You are refusing the prestige of being chosen worthy enough to claim a mate?"