Olga, despite the urge to make herself comfortable in modern life, soon realized that her royal birthright would mean one thing. She, as a returned and eldest daughter of the late Tsar Nicholas II, had a chance to become their new president and top pretender in the RFA. The current pretenders and descendants of the other Romanov branches were behind her place by two large factors: Olga was the eldest and direct descendant of the late Nicholas II. But by "Article 4b" of the RFA, the Russian people would have to vote on the status of Romanov legitimacy and the new family head.
Putin still disagreed that the Romanovs should have returned to power, having stated before that Russia was "past that time". But he did allow a public vote to proceed on which Romanov daughter would be the royal pretender.
When asked, OTMA did not all agree to be placed on the ballot. Maria and Anastasia both disliked the thought of doing much paperwork and certain duties, including dealing with the idiotic impostors. As Anastasia had stated to the president and the RFA:
"I am a Romanov, but not the next Tsaritsa. I only want to live and do great things."
And Maria had also stated something similar:
"I share Nastya's idea. I would like to enjoy my freedom in this new life, perhaps find love."
This left the vote between Olga and Tatiana. The news both excited and worried them. Even if their family no longer held any political power, the thought of the burdens placed on them brought some anxiety. They had just returned a bit over two weeks ago, and they had not been Grand Duchesses for over a century!
Of course, Princess Olga and Prince Rotislav reassured them. Both the RFA president and vice president were well aware of what the now resurrected Big Pair felt. Thus, they would very gradually transition duties to whoever became the winner. The loser would still be able to participate in meetings and activities in the organization as well.
August 3, 2022
St. Petersburg, Russia
"Well, Olga, it looks like you are winning by ten percent in the polls," Prince Rotislav said, sipping from his coffee cup.
Olga chuckled, as Tatiana sighed in relief. Despite being known and nicknamed as the "Governess" in her previous life, she still had yet to fully adjust to the modern world. She disliked the thought of having to do any special duties, even if just as a pretender. But if she did win the vote, she would have to accept it for a higher good.
Maybe this time, they would be safer and well received in their new lives. Russia had come a long way in both invention and social norms ever since Imperial times.
"I thought you wanted to win the vote, Tatya."
"Honestly, I do not know when I will completely feel comfortable here. Things on the news often appear strange to me."
"I agree. Sometimes this Internet invention does wonders! But sometimes I find rude people in YouTube comment sections."
"Ah, who cares? They're probably a bunch of immature people still living with their parents, and not on good terms," Anastasia remarked.
"I agree," Maria added, giggling as Rotislav rolled his eyes.
Olga and Tatiana chuckled along, huddling close together. The mounted TV flashed the news in front of them, showing photos of Russian military advances in the southeastern oblasts. What was hidden, however, were live footage of the casualties and attacks in southeastern Ukraine.
Olga felt suspicious about the speed by which OTMA had been asked to contribute to Russian operations. It made her feel uncomfortable and worried for herself and her sisters. She knew that with every war came suffering and casualties, and the state media kept some facts omitted. She, who had worked as a nurse during WWI, understood the mind game.
But she could not say anything. Putin had both a reputation and an extensive police force in Russia. Somehow, he seemed to be holding back his force.
If there was one thing that the First World War and the Revolution taught her, it was that Russia was cruel to its own people. No matter what regime rose in Russia, people would be used as political pawns under a despotic government. Whoever dared to protest would lose their livelihood or their life. She would not trust Russia.
At least she and her sisters would not have to actively support the untrustworthy regime… yet. They were only being used as novelty figures for state propaganda. Perhaps the government knew that they still needed to readjust to their new lives…
The situation was an uncomfortable one. Olga only wanted to enjoy her new life, and she needed to know why they had risen. She had attempted to analyze the Bible within her hotel room's drawer, but had only ended up with confusion.
She wondered if they were resurrected for a greater plan by God. Whatever it was, it would have larger scope beyond any earthly nation or force…
"I'm also wondering about why we rose again. Whatever it is, our purpose for being here must be larger than any nation's plans."
"I was going to mention that as well."
Rotislav glanced at Olga and Tatiana, stroking his stubbled chin. "Well, this is only a guess, but this could be some prelude to the End Times…"
"Wait, Prince Rotislav… You mean-"
"Sorry to cut you off… But remember, the Revelation's End Times is a prophecy. By God's will, it'll happen soon."
The Little Pair went silent, ceasing their jests and hushed conversation. Their older sisters also remained silent, glancing at each other. The abruptness of the silence felt strange, interrupting the ignorant bliss before. Now, they had remembered the big question again: why did they rise?
And the answer was something shocking despite their subconscious feelings. Yes, it was true, as their relative Rotislav had said. They had gone far forward to a future world with both modern marvels and modern miseries. The world still was very far from perfect… One could argue that the potential of humanity to destroy itself had only increased with the advent of nuclear weapons, pride, and greed.
Olga thought for a moment to recall her scripture readings with her late mother. There would be a great tribulation after the rapture and the coming of the mysterious Two Witnesses. Perhaps they were meant to help those unknown witnesses?
She did not feel certain about the thought. After all, it was too early to tell. Neither did anyone tell her or her sisters the full answer, leaving her confused and frustrated.
But something changed on the TV news program. This caught the attention of all four Romanov sisters.
Photographs of a familiar face flashed before her, as she looked up at the TV. Those big gray-blue eyes had a certain feeling to them, as if they were seeing afar. Olga had not seen those eyes for over a century, and the lines of the news anchor only made it clear.
Her friend had returned.
"Concluding the update on the Russian security operation, we must inform our viewers of another special incident… According to the German government, their late Hessian princess Ella of Hesse and Rhine has resurrected as well. People are still debating over the significance and meaning of these shocking miracles…"
"Olenka… Do you think the same as I do?" Tatiana whispered, widening her eyes in surprise.
"Cousin Ella has risen… I would have doubted that, but I know that we rose as well from God's will."
"This makes no sense!" Anastasia blurted, squinting at the TV.
Maria shrugged, glancing at the hotel lobby nearby, where the unofficial Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna spoke with Princess Olga Andreevna. Perhaps they were still arguing over how the staff rankings would change in the RFA. But what about her safety and happiness? And if Ella had come back, what about her safety? The questions only gave her a headache. Olga was more suited to dwell on those thoughts.
The other Romanov relatives around them were still chattering as well, glancing at her sisters every now and then. It made her feel alienated. Not all of them were so warm to her or her sisters, as they were unused to their presence. It was as if the OTMA sisters were immaculate, sacred objects.
Maria frowned down at her glass of aged Spanish wine. She downed her last gulp of sweet, fragrant wine from her single glass, wondering if they would be able to live normally and be loved.
As a child and then a young woman, the second youngest Grand Duchess had an affinity for loving things. Whether it was her pets, her friends, her family, or a guard or soldier long ago.
She also realized one thing. It made no sense to live this new life as her old life would proceed! Her family had changed. Her Russia had changed. She had a chance to get to know wonderful people in Russia, especially that weird guard Ivan. Something about him caught her interest with a hint of nostalgia, but she did not know what.
The guard that gave her a cake was named Ivan too! Perhaps a coincidence?
No, that could not be… Unless she asked the guard.
(Line Break)
Later that night, Olga dreamed deeply. All of her sisters were asleep too, but only she experienced this…
Olga dreamed that she was in a grassy field, wearing a white dress. She looked around, watching the butterflies and bees flying to their flowers. The sun was high above against the bare blue sky. The breeze was gentle, smelling sweet from the nectar odor of the flowers.
She then saw a distant gazebo in the middle of the field. Feeling curious, she ran towards it. It took some time, but she soon found herself at the stone steps. There was a table with two chairs. Someone was sitting in one of them, with their head lowered.
She squinted at the young woman in a white dress out of confusion. She, too, had a familiar face. The woman looked like her favorite cousin and childhood playmate.
"Cousin Olga. It's been a while."
From that familiar voice and soft, calm tone, Olga knew.
Those sad, big eyes seemed to shine with happiness. And her face was well-shaped like an oval. In heaven, she must have grown and matured from her younger self!
"Cousin Ella? Is that really you?"
Elisabeth laughed. "Of course it's me. I decided to reach out to you."
"Can I sit here?"
"Yes, you can… Get yourself comfortable, because we must discuss some things."
Olga sat down. She glanced around, wondering if this was heaven or a dream.
"Still strange and bizarre," she thought.
"What things? What about the reasons why we were drifting around in the gray realm, whatever that was? Why did we return?"
"Oh, no worries. I have been given answers and important messages from God. That is why you are here, for help," Elizabeth said, smiling.
"Please, tell me."
"Oh, true. The short answer is: I have come to protect you and your sisters. All you four, with my protection, will prepare the world for the End Times and awareness of the Revelation prophecies. And then help the Two Witnesses."
Olga remembered again. She and her Papa often discussed theology whenever they had time after work or studies. Revelation was the more difficult part of the Bible to understand…
"Oh, I had a feeling about that, but I feel so worried! How… How will we do so in time, if the End Times are so soon?"
"Actually, no need to worry about that either. On what would have been the 106th anniversary of your deaths, the End Times will begin. You all have two years. It is fine to relax a bit, but do not get carried away."
"And do not forget to watch Anastasia. Make sure she does not get too naughty," Elisabeth said, standing up from her chair.
Another flash next to them shone, and the two women averted their eyes. When the glow dissipated, they saw a tanned man with a well-shaved beard and shaggy hair. Clad in robes of gold and white, the man stood before them.
Olga felt awe before. But this was the respectful awe, the awe reserved for something so great and sacred that it humbled. She and Ella knelt down, bowing their heads in humility.
There, Jesus Christ stood. He knelt down, before Jesus grinned at both of them.
"Hello, my faithful ones. I would like to encourage you two for the times ahead."
"Uh… Thank you, Jesus?"
"You're welcome. Your faith even through suffering and trials has earned my favor. You and your cousin Ella here will have tasks to do. I have granted Ella a few gifts to help her do her duty. And you, Olga Nikolaevna Romanova, will receive them now."
"Ah… I know why my sisters and I rose, but what do you advise us to do during the two years?"
"Remember the Great Commission and to love and serve people, even if they believe or not. Also, you and Ella must warn them that I will come quite soon."
Olga nodded. She lowered her head again, as Jesus took out a crystal from the folds of his robe…
"I bless you with the gift of manipulating the energies within stars and lightning. Remember to practice this safely and with as little bloodshed as possible."
A tingling sensation filled her as Jesus placed the crystal onto her head, and she felt wonderful! It felt like a rush of fresh energy though her soul. It was like a shot of adrenaline!
She opened her eyes again, understanding and feeling the task she was given. She felt joyful too, knowing that she would do a great good for the broken world.
"See you soon, Olga," Elisabeth said, winking at her…
And Olga awoke in the morning.
Note: It is likely that I'll be giving the rest of OTMA some moderate superpowers for fun. The demon fighting scenes in the far future will be very fun to write! Let me know about your thoughts for this story. However, if you ask a question through a guest review, I cannot answer it as easily.