"This is impossible," Alexander said angrily. "How can this happen? It has never happened before. Why is it happening now? No one in my family is like this—so why now?"
"My king, this is not her fault at all," Maria replied calmly. "There must be an explanation. I know Queen Ruby would never do such a thing. I trust her completely—she would never betray you."
"No, Mother, you do not understand," Alexander snapped. "My manhood is being questioned. How do you expect me to explain to the entire kingdom that the future heir was born like this? They will mock me. I will not allow that boy—even if he is my first and only son—to ever ascend this throne. It is impossible. By tomorrow morning, I want him and his mother out of this palace for good. I do not want to see their faces ever again."
Maria's expression hardened. "If that is your decision, then so be it. Guards, by tomorrow Queen Ruby and her son must vanish from this kingdom. Take them far away—far beyond the reach of this palace."