A Rude Awakening

Chapter 6

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.