The plans never came to pass. As Janessa's pregnancy progressed, she grew less and less able to tend to her duties. She managed for a while, but once Borya and Francesca gave birth, bringing the total number of infants in the nursery to sixteen, she could no longer keep up. Antyny, dissatisfied, finally banished her from the castle.
"What of the babies?" Janessa asked. Antyny scoffed.
"Borya and Francesca gave me eight daughters I had to turn to sons. They will be taking over wetnurse duties, as they also cannot be trusted to give me heirs. Gather your things and leave."
As Janessa tearfully grabbed her few items, Borya and Francesca arrived. Their breasts had been magically engorged by Antyny so they could nurse all sixteen children. They gave Janessa hugs and wished her and her children well.
Yevgeny met Janessa outside the Palace walls. She immediately fell into his arms, sobbing.
"Yevgeny, what can I do?" she wailed. "I am homeless and six months pregnant!" Yevgeny lifted her chin to stare into her eyes.
"You will give birth to our seven strong sons in safety."
"Where?"
"My home town of Wind's Grove. We already have a cart ready and Anya is there waiting for you." He kissed Janessa deeply. Janessa's heart melted, comforted by Yevgeny's calm surety and soft lips. When they broke apart, Janessa knew she couldn't leave without him.
"Will you come with me?" she whispered.