Bid Time Return

[Tim]

AUTHOR’S NOTE: While the Romanov Family, Dr. Botkin, and their other servants were real, the events of this story are completely fictional.

Ekaterinburg, Russia
July 17, 1918

Tsar Nicholas Romanov looked uneasily at his wife, the Tsarina Alexandra Fedorovna. It had been nearly half an hour since they, and their five children, Olga, Tatiana, Maria, Anastasia, and Alexei (plus Anastasia and Tatiana’s pet dogs, Jemmy and Ortino), had been moved down into this cellar of Ipatiev House. Also present was Dr. Eugene Botkin, Personal Physician to the Imperial Family, who had chosen to follow them into imprisonment, and their other remaining servants. Yakov Yurovsky, who was in charge of the guards at Ipatiev House, had claimed that they were now all to be moved to another location, before leaving the room. Supposedly he was going to see if the arranged transport was on the way. However, the delay was beginning to make the Imperial Family nervous. Nicholas looked back at the door as Yurovsky and his guards finally returned. “Well, here we all are.” Nicholas said as he stepped forward towards Yurovsky. “What are you going to do now?”

Rather than reply, Yurovsky smiled cruelly and read his prepared speech: “In view of the fact that your relatives in Europe continue their assault on Soviet Russia, the presidium of Ural Regional Soviet has sentenced you to be shot. In view of the fact that the Czechoslovaks are threatening red capital of the Urals, Ekaterinburg, and in view of the fact that the crowned executioner might escape the people’s court; the presidium of the Regional Soviet, fulfilling the will of the Revolution, has decreed that the former Tsar Nicholas Romanov, guilty of countless bloody crimes against the people, should be shot.”

“What?” Nicholas said, not sure if he had heard correctly. Had Yurovsky just said that they were all to be shot?

Yurovsky drew his gun and prepared to gun the Tsar down. However, before he could fire, a strange thing happened. All eleven of the prisoners were suddenly enveloped by a mysterious green glow. What the hell!? Yurovsky thought as he shielded his eyes from the glow. What was happening here? The glow lasted only a few seconds, and when it vanished, so had the Imperial Family, Dr. Botkin, and all the others. Yurovsky blinked his eyes, but eleven people had just vanished in front of him. Behind him he heard his men speaking.

“What did they put in that vodka?”

“It’s witchcraft!”

“It’s a sign from Heaven. We’re doomed!”

“It’s a counterrevolutionary trick!”

Yurovsky himself had no answers. Without really thinking, he drew his gun and fired at the spot where the Imperial Family, and the others, had been seconds before, his men followed suit. Their bullets thudded harmlessly into the plaster wall of the now empty space in front of them. Yurovsky had somehow lost his eleven prisoners, and he had no idea how or why.

In Another Time

“What? Where are we?” Nicholas asked. The Imperial Family, Dr. Botkin, and the others had found themselves in a strange glowing chamber.

“Is... Is this Heaven?” Tatiana asked slowly.

“Are we dead, Papa?” Anastasia asked.

“I.... I don’t think so.” Nicholas replied. Truthfully, he wasn’t sure himself.

“Nicholas look!” Alexandra said and pointed to where a young woman, dressed in silver, had suddenly appeared.

“Who are you? Where are we?” Nicholas asked.

“First of all, my name is Sarah Gibson.” the young woman replied. “As to your second question, you’re in Surface Teleport Station Five, located on the land that was once the city of Ekaterinburg, on the former site of Ipatiev House.”

“Once the city of Ekaterinburg? What!?” the baffled Nicholas asked.

“Yes, it’s been almost a thousand years.” Sarah replied.

“What do you mean?” Olga asked.

“I mean that this is the year 2893. Welcome to the twenty-ninth century.” Sarah said.

“The twenty-ninth century.” Nicholas said. “That’s not possible.”

“Oh, it is.” Sarah said. “You are now in the Neo-Russian Empire.”

“The Neo-Russian Empire?” Alexandra asked, looking at the rest of her family.

“Yes, it was founded after the Last War.”

“The Last War?” Nicholas said. “Is that...”

“No, that’s not the war you know.” Sarah said sadly. “Many others followed that war, unfortunately, including the Last War, but humanity finally outgrew our nasty habits for killing each other. Now we live in peace. We’ve rebuilt and healed Earth, colonized the Moon, Mars, and Venus, and are now exploring...”

“Please stop.” Nicholas said. “This is a bit much to take. Why did you bring us here?”

“Because all of you are legends here.” Sarah replied. “We felt that you deserved better than the fate you got. Those men would have murdered all of you, had we not brought you here.”

“And you brought it here because.” Alexandra said.

“Because, this is a world without war, without the
troubles of your time. I think you’ll all be happy here.” Sarah said and worked a control on her wrist. The Romanov’s and the others were treated to a sight of a beautiful landscape with floating cities in the distance. As the Tsar and his family took the sight in, Sarah said: “Today your old lives have ended, but a new one now begins.”

“But what happened!? Exactly!” Olga demanded.

Sarah turned to Olga with a smile. She had heard that question many times before. “Olga...Niko..laevna? Is that how you say your name? Well Olga Nikolaevna, we have a way to show you what happened and what your would be assassins saw at the time you all were transported here. Most new arrivals from the past are interested in seeing that. We find it helps in their adjustment. If you will all look here at the screens.” With that, a smallish rectangle appeared in the air before each member of the family and they saw themselves as they were just minutes ago waiting for, they believed, transport of another kind. But they now saw the event from a different viewpoint. It was themselves, and yet, it was also poor people who were not aware of their danger at the same time. When the cellar room door opened again, some let out the cries that there had been no time for the first time. Then they saw themselves begin to glow as a group with a green light, and Yurovsky’s confusion as the light got brighter until it was gone, along with the Imperial Family. They then saw the gaping mouths of the guards. They saw Yurovsky’s bullets cutting though plain air and thudding harmlessly into plaster walls that had been behind them moments before. The picture then faded out and the screens disappeared. “The rest you know.” Sarah said brightly.

The family stood for a few moments, they then heard a noise and turned. Nicholas was suddenly laughing so hard that he had to right himself by holding onto Maria’s arm. It seemed strangely out of place considering what they had all just witnessed . “My dear what is it?” Alexandra asked “Are you ill?”

“No!” Nicholas was able to wheeze out. “I was just wondering how Yurovsky’s report...that we disappeared in a green.... GLOW! ..was received... in Moscow!” The family began to laugh as well, until they were all shouting. It was a welcome release after months of uncertainly and insecurity in captivity.

Sarah thought a moment. “Well, I could find out for you, Nicholas Alexandrovich.” For some reason, that just made the family collapse into each other, laughing even harder.

“You can just address us all by our first names.” Nicholas said to Sarah, once he had finally gotten himself under control. Gradually, the rest of the family followed suit.

“Okay, Nicholas. Come on.” Sarah said to the Imperial Family. “I have much to show you.” She led the Romanov’s and the others out of the building and to an open topped vehicle and got in. Nicholas and the others followed, but soon were startled when the vehicle began to rise into the air.

“What is this!?” Alexandra asked, the fear evident in her voice.

“It’s a null-gravity car.” Sarah replied. “Of course, I should have realized this. In your time mechanical aviation was less than twenty years old.”

“I think it’s neat!” Maria said.

“Me too!” Anastasia added.

Olga and Tatiana said nothing, but both looked rather green in the face. Dr. Botkin and the other servants also chose to remain silent.

“Don’t worry, it will be over soon.” Sarah said. “We’re approaching New Moscow now.” She indicated one of the floating cities that was getting closer.

“New Moscow?” Nicholas asked. “What happened to the original one?”

“It was destroyed in the Last War I mentioned.” Sarah replied. “And it wasn’t alone. All the major cities of the world, London, Paris, Berlin, Rome, Tokyo, Ottawa, Washington D.C., New York, many others, all gone.”

“My God.” Nicholas said. “What kind of weapons could do that, destroy a whole city.”

“Weapons more powerful than you could imagine.” Sarah said. “In fact, the first of their kind were invented only a few decades after your time. After that, they just got more and more powerful, until they were finally used. Two thirds of the world population died in the Last War. So much was lost. Yet, much was also saved, including historical records. That is how we found out about all of you.”

“Us?” Tatiana asked, looking a little better.

“Yes. In the late twentieth century and early twenty-first century, after the fall of the Soviet Union, that is what Lenin and those who came after him started calling Russia, the people of Russia wanted to connect with their past, and all of you. When the Neo-Russian Empire was founded, that connection remained.”

“Yes, you mentioned this Neo-Russian Empire. Is it like my empire?” Nicholas asked.

“No, the monarch is a figurehead.” Sarah explained. “The Neo-Russian Empire operates much like the ancient British Monarchy did. The real political power lies with the World Council, in which the Neo-Russian Empire is part of.”

“So, how do we fit in?” Olga asked.

“You’ll see.” Sarah replied with a smile as they came in for a landing in New Moscow.


The Imperial Family and the others had no sooner disembarked, when a barking was heard and a familiar dog appeared. “Jemmy!” Anastasia cried as her pet came towards her.

“We reroute animals to a separate temporal transporter.” Sarah said. “It’s just a safety protocol.”

“I see.” Nicholas replied, in reality not having a clue as to what Sarah was talking about.

“Are these the new arrivals?” a middle aged man asked as he appeared on the scene.

“Yes, they are.” Sarah replied.

“Good. I’m Doctor Thomas Hatch.” the newcomer said. “My job is to check out arrivals from the past. Don’t worry, it won’t hurt.” Hatch pulled out an instrument and began to scan the Imperial Family, Botkin, and the others. When he got to Alexei, his device began to beep. “Ah, yes, the blood disorder. This should help.” Dr. Hatch then pulled out a needle like device and gave Alexei a jab on the arm.

“Get away from our son!” Alexandra said, stepping forward. “He can’t be jabbed like that. He could bleed to death and die!”

“It’s all right, Mama, I feel fine.” Alexei said. “In fact, I’ve never felt better in my life.” The boy began to run and jump up and down.

“Alexei, stop that! You could fall and start to bleed inside!” Alexandra said with worry.

“It’s okay, the blood disorder has been corrected.” Dr. Hatch said.

“What?” Nicholas and Alexandra said at the same time.

“He means that your son has been cured.” Sarah said. “The hemophilia is gone, it will trouble him no longer. Alexei can live a normal life.”

“Is... Is that true?” Alexandra wondered. “Then it’s a miracle.”

“To you, perhaps.” Dr. Hatch said. “But medical science has advanced considerably since your day. In fact, I’ll give you all some of this medicine, that will prevent the hemophilia from being passed on to any future generations.” Hatch then proceeded to inject the rest of the family.

“Well, it’s a miracle to me.” Alexandra said, once Hatch had finished.

Nicholas said nothing. He looked at Anastasia, who was playing with Jemmy, and Alexei, running and jumping like a normal boy. Was anything not beyond these people?

“Come.” Sarah said. “I’ll show you all to your quarters.”


In fact, two sets of quarters had been prepared, one for the Imperial Family themselves, and one for Dr. Botkin and the others. The Romanov’s were busy taking in their new room (except Anastasia, who was still occupied with Jemmy), when Sarah came in. “So, how are you adjusting?”

“As well as to be expected.” Nicholas said. “Look, do you do this often. Remove people from the past, I mean.”

“No, we can’t just yank someone willy nilly out of the past.” Sarah replied. “We can only do it if we’re sure they’re never going to marry or reproduce again, and thus removing them would not negate any future descendants. As I said, those men were about to shoot all of you dead. Removing you all then only had a minimal affect on history.”

“But won’t our vanishing into thin air change something.” Tatiana asked. “Those men saw it happen.”

“Yes, but the Communists, I’m sorry, the Bolsheviks, were famous for covering things up.” Sarah replied. “No doubt they will suppress what really happened. We took a scan of history, and it seems it went along as it did before. Lenin and those who followed him made sure the truth was silenced.”

“Yes, and what happened to Russia?” Olga asked.

“I was wondering when you’d ask that.” Sarah said and placed some plastic disks down on the table in front of the Imperial Family. “These are history disks of Russia. The first deals with the period from 1918 to 1991, the period of when it was called the Soviet Union. I’ll show you how to use them. And then...” Sarah broke off as the door opened and a strange being entered. “Ah, hello Cask.”

“Greetings. Sarah, I need to ask you something. They told me you were here.” the newcomer said. The Imperial Family all gaped at Cask, since he was unlike any being they had seen before. While humanoid, he had green, scaly skin.

“Sorry about that.” Sarah said to the Romanov’s. “You had immigration in your time, well, we have it in ours too, only slightly different.”

“Hello.” Cask said. “I come from the star system you call Tau Ceti. Perhaps you’ve heard of it.”

The Imperial Family was too astonished to reply. Nicholas just stared at Cask, not knowing what to say. From behind him, he heard a thud.

“Papa, Tatiana has fainted!” Anastasia said in a voice that sounded both concerned and amused.

Nicholas turned, but saw that Alexandra was already attending to the situation.

“Was it something I said?” Cask asked.

“No, it wasn’t.” Sarah said as she stepped forward. “Cask, perhaps it would be better if we talked later.”

“Very well, Sarah.” Cask said and departed.

“Forgive me.” Sarah said to the Imperial Family. “I should have prepared you better for this.” She walked over to a wall panel, punched in a few commands, and soon a glass of clear liquid appeared in a nearby slot. This she gave to Tatiana, whom Olga and Alexandra had helped to her feet. “Here, drink this.”

“What is it?” Tatiana asked warily.

“It’s a nerve supplement. It should help you feel better.”

“What was that... That....” Tatiana said as she took the liquid from Sarah and drank it. After a few moments, the colour began to return to her face.

“Cask is an immigrant from the Tau Ceti star system” Sarah replied. “In your time, people travelled from country to country. Well, in this time, they travel from world to world. The discovery of hyperspace as made the galaxy one big community. Star systems light years apart can now...” she stopped as she saw the blank looks the Imperial Family were giving her. “Sorry, did it again. You would think I would have learned after that group we rescued from Roanoke Island, talk about culture shock!”

“Well, I still think it sounds neat.” Anastasia said as Jemmy began to lick her face.

“That reminds me, what about my dog, Ortino. Did you rescue him too?” Tatiana said. By now, she was looking a lot better.

“Yes, we did.” Sarah said. “However, one of our technicians opened the door to the teleport chamber too soon, he got out into New Moscow. We’re looking for him now. When we find him, we’ll bring him to you.”

“Thank you.” Tatiana said.

“Right now you all must be tired.”

“Yes, we are.” Nicholas said and turned to his family. “We could use some sleep.”

“Sometimes the Temporal Displacement Affect does make one tired. However, the affect is temporary.” Sarah said, smiling.


The Romanov’s quarters had three bedrooms attached, one for Nicholas and Alexandra, one for the four Grand Duchesses, and one for Alexei. Sarah was now in the room given to Olga, Tatiana, Maria, and Anastasia. The Grand Duchesses found their new room comfortable. “You can see forever.” Maria said as she looked out one of the windows in which the green landscape could be seen below. “Does no one live down there?”

“Some do, but not many.” Sarah said. “When the floating cities were built, the surface of Earth was given over to nature, except for some teleport stations, like the one you all arrived in. Also, our population is much smaller now, since the Moon and the other planets I mentioned were colonized.” She moved over to a screen on the wall. “Programmed in here are all the movies and television shows ever made, for your entertainment. It’s all stored in the World Archives, where I downloaded them from. Similar screens are in the bedrooms assigned to your parents and brother. There is also one in the main living area.”

“Television? What’s television?” Anastasia asked.

“Well, it’s...” Sarah replied and began to explain.

Yes, I’m really going to like it here. Anastasia thought to herself.


The next morning, Sarah arrived at the Imperial Family’s quarters with a surprise. “Ortino!” Tatiana said with delight at the sight of her dog. “You found him!”

“Yeah, we did. He led us a merry chase through New Moscow, but we finally tracked him down.” Sarah watched as Tatiana happily took Ortino into her arms. Another family member reunited. she thought.

“What happened to my dog?” Alexei asked.

“He survived that night.” Sarah replied. “He was rescued, taken to Britain, and spent the rest of his days at Windsor Palace.”

“At least he made it.” Alexei said, comforted that his pet had found safety.

“I have something else to show you all.” Sarah said and led the family into the main living area. “Yesterday, you wondered how Yakov Yurovsky’s report was received in Moscow. Well, if you turn your attention to the screen, you’ll see what transpired a few days later when Yurovsky was recalled to Moscow to deliver his report in person.”

“Oh, but I was only joking.” Nicholas said and smiled at the memory. However, when he saw the serious look on Sarah’s face, he became intrigued. “Can you really do that?”

“We can.” Sarah replied. “We have probes that monitor and record time throughout history. Of course, that we how we were able to get all of you out, since we were monitoring that particular moment in time. One of our probes was present where Yurovsky gave his report to Lenin, Joseph Stalin, and Leon Trotsky, in Moscow. Here is what happened.” The screen on the wall came to life and the Imperial Family were treated to what had transpired in Moscow, almost a thousand years before.

**********

Yakov Yurovsky trembled as he finished giving his account of what happened to the Romanov’s to Lenin himself. Sitting on Lenin’s right side was Leon Trotsky, and on his left side was Joseph Stalin. “Let me see if I can summarize this.” Lenin said calmly, once Yurovsky had finished. “You’re telling us that the Imperial Family...” he picked up a piece of paper and read the report on it. “Was enveloped in a green glow and vanished. Is that correct?”

“Yes sir, it is.” Yurovsky replied. “We all witnessed it. Myself and my men.”

“You witnessed it, through a vodka bottle no doubt.” Trotsky said with a snort.

“No sir, I was not drunk. I tell you it happened exactly as I have outlined in my report.”

“We should have him shot.” Stalin said with contempt. “Him and all those other bungling fools he calls soldiers!”

“Why so?” Lenin asked as he turned to Stalin.

“Well, it’s obvious what really happened.” Stalin replied. “The Romanov’s somehow escaped, and he has concocted this ridiculous story in a pathetic attempt to conceal his blunder.”

“Sir, I swear it’s the truth!” Yurovsky pleaded.

“Clearly there is counterrevolutionary trickery at play here.” Trotsky said. “Perhaps Mr. Yurovsky was bribed by the Whites to release the Romanov Family into their custody.”

“No, that isn’t what happened.” Yurovsky said. “I hated the Tsar and his family. I wanted them dead as much as anyone. Why would I let them go. Please, sirs, you have to believe me!”

“I’m sorry, but your story is impossible to believe.” Lenin said as he reached a decision. He quickly summoned two guards, who grabbed Yurovsky. “Yakov Yurovsky, for your failure to carry out your orders, you are sentenced to house arrest, pending a decision on your final fate. Take him away!”

“No, please, I’m telling the truth! They did vanish!” Still protesting, Yurovsky was dragged away.

“I still say we should have had him shot.” Stalin said as he turned to Lenin and shot him a look. “You were too easy on him. Why? I want to know.”

Lenin said nothing, he just traced lines on Yurovsky’s report with his fingers.

“You don’t actually believe him, do you!?” Stalin asked after a few moments of silence.

“Comrades, a liar does not make up such tales.” Lenin sighed. “A liar strives to be believable most of all. The very fantastic nature of this report causes me to wonder.”

“Wonder what?” Trotsky asked.

“That perhaps something strange did happen at Ipatiev House. Something that we may never know the answer to.”

“So now what?” Stalin barked, at a complete loss.

“So now we hope that the Romanov’s don’t return in their ‘green glow’. However, if they do, we still have Yurovsky to send after them. Who would be more motivated? That is why I spared his life. As far as anyone else is concerned, the Romanov’s were successfully executed at Ipatiev House on July 17. That is the story we’ll put out, and their counterrevolutionary allies will not have a banner to rally around.”

“I agree, for the good of the revolution!” Stalin declared, realizing that Lenin was right.

“The good of the revolution!” Trotsky declared seconds later.

“Excellent.” Lenin said. “Now all we have to do is make sure the rest of Yurovsky’s men remain silent.”

“Let me handle it.” Stalin said, an unpleasant grin coming across his face. “I have a way of making people obey.”

“Oh, and how will you collect them all?” Lenin asked.

“I’ll let it known that they are to be rewarded. I find that method very effective in gathering those I want.” Stalin chuckled.

**********

[Tim]

“And we didn’t go back.” Alexei said, once the image had faded from the screen.

“No, you didn’t.” Sarah replied. “As far as anyone back then knows, you all died that night. That is how history recorded it.”

“That Stalin was a nasty fellow.” Nicholas said grimly.

“You don’t know the half of it.” Sarah replied with a shudder.

“What does that mean?” Nicholas asked.

“After Lenin died of a stroke in 1924, Stalin took over. He became one of the worst tyrants of the twentieth century. It’s all on those history disks I left you.”

“I’ll have to watch them.” Nicholas said. “Although part of me is not sure I want to.”

“Take your time, Nicholas.” Sarah said. “There’s no rush.”


Over the next several days, the Imperial Family gradually settled into their new lives. The Grand Duchesses found themselves enraptured by televison, something they had never seen before. Of course, this did lead to the occasional argument. “Nastya.” Tatiana said, referring to Anastasia by one of her nick names. “It doesn’t make any sense. This girl goes to school with these people every day, and then she puts on a blond wig and NO ONE recognizes her! The people that go to see her sing are the same ones that go to school with her. How stupid were people in the twenty-first century!?”

“Tatiana, that’s the point of the show.” Anastasia replied, rolling her eyes. “The idea is that this girl, this famous... What were they called again?”

“Pop stars.” Maria said. She and Anastasia had been watching the screen together and had been entertained by the shows that Sarah had downloaded from the World Archives.

“Yes, pop stars. Anyway, this girl is a famous pop star, but also gets to lead a normal life. As her song says, she has the best of both worlds.”

“Well, I think it’s silly.” Tatiana said. “All those people jumping and screaming while she sings. What kind of music was that anyway?”

“I wouldn’t be so judgmental, Tatiana.” Anastasia said mischieviously. “I saw you watching that Elvis Presley person on the screen the other day, or rather I saw you drooling over him! The King Of Rock and Roll, they called him. Maybe you’d like to be his Queen.”

“You little sneak!” Tatiana said, her face going a nice shade of red. “I thought you were asleep.”

“Bleh!” Anastasia stuck her tongue out at Tatiana and turned back to the screen, while Tatiana quietly fumed.

“What’s all the noise over there.” Olga said. She had been lying on her bed, reviewing a history disk on a small private screen that Sarah had provided for her.

“Our little sister is a sneak.” Tatiana said. “She was invading my privacy.”

“Well, maybe next time, you’ll do your fawning elsewhere, not in plain sight.”

“Olga!” Tatiana said with outrage. Anastasia and Maria just laughed.

“Anyway, I’ve been reading this disk that Sarah left me.” Olga said. “Apparently, some people started claiming they were us in the 1920's and 30's.”

“Oh, I know about that.” Anastasia said, jumping into the conversation. “I saw the same disk. That crazy Polish woman that went around saying she was me for more than fifty years. She didn’t even look like me!”

“Well, since we had vanished, no one could prove it.” Olga said. “Until they discovered...” she consulted the disk. “DNA. Apparently, that allowed them to debunk those claims.”

“Not bad for the stupid people of the twenty-first century, right Tatiana.” Maria said, smiling.

“Hmmmph!” Tatiana muttered.

At that point, Sarah came in. “Hello everyone, how are things going.”

“Oh, fine, just a little sibling rivalry going on her.” Olga said, indicating Anastasia and Tatiana.

“Well, I suppose that happens.” Sarah said. “Although not to me. I’m an only child. Anyway, I wanted to know if all of you wanted to come on a ride on the null-gravity car. I’ve already asked your parents and brother, and they said yes. If you’re not up to it, I’d understand.”

“No, we’ll come.” Olga said. “I think it would be good for some of us to get some fresh air and cool down. Let’s go.”


The Imperial Family sat calmly as the null-gravity car took them away from New Moscow. “I must say that you all seem much calmer this time.” Sarah said from the controls.

“Well, we were caught by surprise the first time.” Nicholas said.

“However, we’ve had some time to get used to things around here.” Alexandra added as she watched the five children take in the sight below. The landscape they flew over was pristine and wild. Familiar rivers like the Dnieper, the Don, and the Volga were surrounded by forest green.

“It’s like the towns and cities were never there.” Olga said.

“It’s beautiful.” Tatiana added.

“I’m glad you like it.” Sarah said. “However, it took a long time to make it that way.”

“That Last War you mentioned.” Nicholas said.

“Yes, much of the land here, and everywhere on Earth, were reduced to wasteland. It took us centuries to heal the world, but we did it. Below is the result. A world where nature runs free.”

“Look, some deer.” Anastasia said and pointed to a herd of deer that were drinking from the Volga.

“You’ll find many animals down there.” Sarah said. “Even those that were once threatened with extinction. On Earth, we humans live in the floating cities, the ground belongs to the animals. Of course, some people choose to live down there, we don’t forbid it, but most prefer to let the Earth be.”

Oh brave new world, that has such people in it. Nicholas couldn’t help but quote the line from Shakespeare’s, The Tempest, in his mind. Certainly, this was a world that even the Bard couldn’t have dreamed of. Despite feeling welcome and safe here, Nicholas still wondered if he and his family would ever fit in.


A short while later, Sarah landed the null-gravity car in a clearing, not far from the Dnieper. “I just thought you’d all like to go out and take a hike.” Sarah suggested. The Imperial Family quickly took her up on her offer. Alexei was the first out and he was quickly bounding across the clearing, enjoying his now healthy body.

“It’s wonderful, isn’t it.” Alexandra said as she watched Alexei enjoying himself. “So many years, I worried about him. Now look at him, Nicholas. You would never know he was so sick, just a few days ago.”

“I know.” Nicholas replied. The two of them were walking across the clearing, watching their children enjoy the fine day. “So many things have changed. Still, this countryside is wonderful. Part of me wants to build a house out here for us.”

“Really?”

“Yes, that is all I ever really wanted, my dear. You know I never wanted to be Tsar, the position was more or less forced on me when my father died. I know I made some bad decisions. Maybe that’s why our people came to hate me so much.”

“They didn’t all hate us, Nicholas.”

“That’s true, but enough did that they wanted to kill us.” Nicholas replied bitterly. “I tried, Alexandra, God knows I tried to be a good Tsar. However, there were times that I wished I could just disappear and live out the rest of my days in peace, like my ancestor, Alexander I, did, according to legend.” He thought of the famous legend about the Tsar, Alexander I, who had supposedly faked his own death and lived the next forty years as a hermit in Siberia. Whether the story was true or not was unknown. Perhaps I should ask Sarah about that, she might know. Nicholas thought.

“Well, Nicholas, in way, you got your wish.” Alexandra pointed out. “We’re here in this new world. Those that wanted to hurt us are dead and gone. Maybe we can build that house out here someday. Sarah did say that some choose to live here on the surface. Maybe we can too.”

“Perhaps we can.” Nicholas said as he and Alexandra walked on.


The four Grand Duchesses had found their way to the bank of the Dnieper. Anastasia gaped at all the fish she saw swimming in the river. “Careful, Nastya, don’t fall in.” Olga warned.

“I won’t.” Anastasia replied. “I’m just looking at all the fish. I’ve never seen so many before.”

“Well, Sarah did say that all the rivers are pure now.” Tatiana said. “That is probably why we’ll see much more fish than we did in our time.”

“Well, then...” Maria began, but stopped as a young man arrived on the scene. “Uh, hello.” she said.

“Hello.” the young man replied. He looked to be in his early twenties, with dark brown hair and eyes. “I’m Joe Hawkins. I live just up the river.”

“You’re one of the people that live on the surface of Earth.” Maria said.

“Yeah, I am.” Joe said. “Never much liked living in a city that floats in the sky, gives me vertigo. I often walk along the river, although I’ve never seen you four before. You must be from one of the floating cities, I guess.”

“In a way.” Olga said. “I’m Olga, and these are my sisters, Tatiana, Maria, and Anastasia.”

“Pleased to meet you all.” Joe said. “Funny, but those were the names of the daughters of the last Tsar of Russia. The old Russia, that is.”

“Really?” Anastasia said and shared a mischievous smile with her sisters. “Tell us about them.”

“Well, I can only tell you what I have read about them. They lived almost a thousand years ago. However, they must have been very aloof.”

“Aloof? How so?” Olga asked.

“Well, from what I have read, that is how princesses at the time acted.” Joe said. “They were upper crust, after all. They would have little in common with the normal people.”

“You seem to know much about them.” Tatiana said. “Please go on.”

“Not much else to say.” Joe replied. “Still, I would love to meet them. I would be fascinated to interact with people from such a primitive time.”

“You just did.” Olga said.

“What, I...” Joe began, but then realized the truth. “Oh God, you ARE the Grand Duchesses! They must have pulled you all out of the past!”

“Yes, and our brother, parents, personal physician, and retinue, plus a couple of pets.” Olga said. “So, how do you feel about meeting people from ‘such a primitive time’, as you put it?”

“Uh, yeah, I’m gonna go and take this foot out of my mouth now.” Joe muttered as the four Grand Duchesses burst into laughter.

At that point, Nicholas, Alexandra, Alexei, and Sarah arrived. “Hello Joe.” Sarah said. “What brings you here?”

“Uh, I just met the Grand Duchesses here.” Joe replied quickly.

“We have a most charming conversation.” Olga said.

“Quite charming.” Anastasia added, grinning.

“I see.” Nicholas said and then turned to Sarah. “You know this young man?”

“Yeah, this is Joseph Hawkins.” Sarah said. “Joe and I were in school together, until he decided he’d rather live on the surface.”

“Ah, and what is it that you do, Joseph?”

“I’m an archeologist, uh, sir.” Joe replied as he recognized Nicholas and Alexandra.

“You may address me as Nicholas. No need to stand on formalities here.”

“Okay, anyway, as I said, I’m an archeologist, or rather I’m studying it. There used to be a city near here.”

“Kiev.” Olga said helpfully.

“Yeah, Kiev was the name of the city, but of course, you all would know that. The city was destroyed in the Last War, but there are many interesting artifacts I’ve dug up. Maybe you all would like to see some of them. They’re at my place, it’s not far from here. I could even offer you all a meal. I’d like to do it, to make up for making an idiot of myself a few moments ago.”

“What do you mean?” Sarah asked.

“Oh, it’s quite all right.” Tatiana said, stepping in. “No real offense was taken.”

“Well, if you’ll all follow me then.” Joe said and began to lead the way.

Hmmm, he’s quite handsome. Tatiana couldn’t help but think.


Joe’s place was a modest house, tucked nicely on the east bank of the Dnieper. As promised, he produced a meal that the Romanov’s greatly enjoyed. “What is this?” Nicholas asked. “It tastes like beef. Is it?”

“Well, yes and no.” Joe replied.

The Imperial Family just looked at him.

“What he means is that in a way it is beef.” Sarah said, jumping in. “However, all our food is artificially produced. We no longer have to kill animals for their meat. That drove many species to the brink of extinction. Much of the animal populations were also depleted in the Last War. Thankfully, they have come back. As I said, the surface of Earth is their playground.”

“Well, this tastes like real beef to me.” Nicholas said as he continued to enjoy his meal. He saw that the rest of his family were doing the same. “Do still have tea in this time? I’ve love a cup.” he asked.

“Well, I can consult the database. No doubt it’s in there.” Joe replied. Soon he had provided the tea, which Nicholas found very pleasing to taste.

“Tatiana, if you leave your mouth open any wider, your tongue will fall to the floor.” Olga whispered to her sister.

“What?” Tatiana mumbled. She had been watching Joe ever since he began setting the table and she found she enjoyed what she saw.

“I mean that you’ve been looking at our host ever since we got here.”

“I can’t help it, Olga. He’s handsome. Despite the first impression he gave us, I think I could like him.”

“Uh, we’ll talk about this later.” Olga said. “Now is not the time.”

“So, what are these artifacts you mentioned to us.” Alexandra asked Joe.

“Oh, yeah, I almost forgot.” Joe said. He left the room and came back with a metal box in his hand. “Most of these devices are pre-Last War, but still you might find them interesting. He pulled out a series of small devices and laid them on the table.

“What are they?” Alexei asked.

“Well, this is a cell phone.” Joe said and pointed to one of the devices. “All the young people in the early twenty-first century had them. Unlike the phones of your time, these phones were pocket sized and could be taken anywhere.”

“Sounds like something I would have liked.” Anastasia said.

“This is what was called an IPod.” Joe said. “It could store lots of music in it, many selections.”

“That little thing!?” Olga said with astonishment.

“Yep, it’s true.” Joe said. “Technology took a great leap forward in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries.”

“Ah, like the Industrial Revolution of the early nineteenth century.” Nicholas said.

“Exactly.” Joe replied. “The Technological Revolution transformed the world as much as the Industrial one did. Some good, some bad, but the world was forever changed by it.”

The Imperial Family was once again astonished. It seemed that in only a mere century after their time, the world had changed dramatically. Joe told them about computers, the Internet, CD’s, VCR’s, IBM machines, Microsoft, and many others. It’s almost like something that H.G. Wells or Jules Verne would have dreamt up. Nicholas thought.


Later, the group returned to New Moscow in the null-gravity car, and Sarah had another announcement to make. “This car is now for you personal use.”

“But, Sarah, we would not know how to work such a device.” Alexandra said.

“You don’t have to.” Sarah replied. “I’ve programmed it to respond to all of your voices. All you have to do is tell the car where you want to go, and it will take you there.”

“Oh, that’s great.” Olga said.

Yes, it is. Tatiana thought.


Later, the four Grand Duchesses were once again in their room, when Olga confronted Tatiana about Joe. “So, you like that Joe fellow?”

“Yes, I do. What of it?” Tatiana replied.

“Tanya’s got a crush! Tanya’s got a crush!” Anastasia began to chant.

“Nastya!” Tatiana said, shooting dagger eyes at her little sister.

“Never mind her.” Olga said. “What are you going to say to Papa and Mama?”

“I hadn’t even thought of that!”

“Well, you better.” Olga warned. “I’m not sure how they’ll react.”

“Neither am I.” Tatiana muttered to herself.


Their long day outside having exhausted them, the Imperial Family turned in early, or rather most of them did. When she was sure her three sisters were asleep, Tatiana slowly got out of bed. “Shhhhhh!” she whispered to Ortino, when the dog perked up. Slowly, she made her way out of the Grand Duchesses’s bedroom and into the main part of their quarters. Good, Papa, Mama, and Alexei are also asleep. she thought. I better do this before I change my mind.

The null-gravity car was right where they had left it. As she got into the car, Tatiana remembered Sarah’s comments about the car being programmed to respond to their voices. Taking a deep breath, Tatiana said: “Start.”

“State required destination.” a computerized voice said.

Tatiana quickly replied and soon the car was air born. For most of the trip out of New Moscow, Tatiana hovered between fear and excitement. Certainly she had never done anything like this before in her life. Well, it is a whole new world. she thought as the car flew on into the night.


Fifteen minutes later, in his home, Joe was tinkering with one of his artifacts, when a knock sounded at his door. Who could that be? Joe thought as he went and answered the door. Astonishment overwhelmed him as he saw the Grand Duchess Tatiana standing there. “What? How?”

“I hope you don’t mind, Joe, but I wanted to see you again. By myself.” Tatiana said.

“Uh, sure, come in.” Joe said as he stepped aside. This evening was turning out to be more interesting than anticipated.


“Where’s Tatiana?” Maria asked. She had woken up to see her sister missing.

“She snuck out of here a while ago.” Anastasia replied. “She thought I was asleep.”

“Where do you think she went?”

“I think I know.” Olga said. “She went to see Joe.”

“I knew it. She does have a crush on him!” Anastasia said and giggled.

“And she just left without telling anyone.” Maria said, her eyes going wide. “Papa will not be happy.”

“I know. That is why we’re not going to tell him, or Mama.” Olga said sternly.

“We’re not?”

“No, this is Tatiana’s choice.” Olga said. “She is a grown woman, and the decision is hers. As her sisters, we have to look out for her. Swear to me that you will not tell Mama or Papa about this.”

“But Olga, we can...” Maria began.

“Swear!” Olga hissed in a voice that warned her younger sisters that they better agree.

“I swear.” Maria said.

“Me too.” Anastasia added. “Now what?”

“Now we wait for Tatiana to come back, and hope she does before Mama or Papa wakes up and see that she’s not here.”


Meanwhile, Tatiana and Joe were out walking along the bank of the Dnieper. “My family and I used to sail along this river.” Tatiana was saying. “We’d visit the towns and cities along the way. We’d take vacations here, when Papa wasn’t busy with affairs of state. Those were wonderful times, before the war and revolution tore our country apart.” Part of Tatiana still couldn’t believe that almost ten centuries had elapsed since those magical pre-war times. To her, it was just a few short years. “I guess we just didn’t see the problems our country was facing.”

“No one did.” Joe replied. “I read up on your time. There were problems in Russia that your father just couldn’t fix.”

“He did try, though.” Tatiana said. “However, it just wasn’t enough. Then the war started and only made things worse. My mother, my sister, Olga, and myself became nurses and helped the wounded. Maria and Anastasia would have helped too, but they were too young. However, they did come and talk to the soldiers. We did what we could to help. But it seems we didn’t help enough to stop what happened to our country.”

“Tatiana, the revolution was a long time coming.” Joe said. “Many factors contributed to it, but those factors took decades to build up. Your family was just in the wrong place at the wrong time when it finally happened. Nothing your father did could have stopped it.”

“Perhaps, but we’ll never really know for sure.” Tatiana replied. “Tell me about this Last War. Sarah has mentioned it a few times, but I’m curious to learn more.”

“Well, it happened about one hundred and eighty years after your time.” Joe said. “Like the Russian Revolution, it had been building up for a long time. Nationalism, ancient ethnic feuds, religious extremism, all finally just exploded. No one knows who actually fired the first missile, but when it was over, much of the planet was a radioactive wasteland, and five billion people, more than half the world population, were dead.”

“Five...billion!?” Tatiana gasped, having trouble even conceiving that so many could die.

“Yeah, and that was just the start. Then came the nuclear winter.”

“Nuclear winter?”

“Clouds of dust and ash, caused by the bombings, were hurled up into the atmosphere, and enveloped the world. It was five years before humanity saw the sun again. The food chain broke down, starvation and disease were everywhere. Many more were wiped out as a result.”

“My God.” Tatiana said with horror. The war and revolution of her time paled in comparison to the devastation and suffering that Joe was describing.

“It was bad, Tatiana, for a very long time. However, this was also what made humanity finally wake up and see the errors of its way. We had come very close to extinction, and we realized that if we didn’t change as a species, we would become extinct. So we vowed to make a new world, one in which the old hatreds and prejudices had no place. It took centuries, but we were able to build the world you see around you today.”

“Does religion still exist?” Tatiana asked.

“It does.” Joe replied. “We just don’t kill those that follow a different religion than our own. We all respect each others belief systems, no matter how different they are.”

“It sounds like you have a wonderful world here, Joe.”

“We do. However, we paid a terrible price to make it. Besides, Tatiana, this is your world now too.”

“Yes, I suppose it is.” The two of them then stood and watched the Moon rise, its bright light reflected on the surface of the Dnieper.


A few hours later, Tatiana successfully managed to sneak back into the Imperial Family’s quarters. She had thought she was safe, until she entered the Grand Duchesses’s bedroom and saw her three sisters awake and waiting for her. “The wanderer returns.” Maria said.

Oh damn! Tatiana thought, realizing that she was caught.

“Don’t worry, Mama and Papa don’t know about your little evening stroll.” Olga said.

“Yeah, she swore Maria and I to secrecy.” Anastasia said.

“Thank you.” Tatiana said, relieved that her sisters had protected her secret rendevous.

“I’m guessing you paid a little visit to Joe.” Olga said.

“Yes, I did.” Tatiana replied.

“And?”

“And nothing. We walked along the Dnieper and talked.”

“And that’s all?” Olga asked.

“Yes, that’s all.” Tatiana snapped. “Joe and I just met, after all!”

“I’m sorry, Tatiana. It’s just that I’ve been reading up on a few things. Apparently, the rules of courting changed considerably by the end of the twentieth century.”

“Yeah, men and women lived together without being married.” Maria said.

“They also had children.” Anastasia added.

“Well, I can assure you all that nothing more happened than what I just told you.” Tatiana said. Not yet at least. she added to herself in her thoughts.


The following morning, Nicholas and Alexandra were having breakfast in the kitchen area of their quarters. Alexei had expressed interest in some of the local sporting events and had taken himself off to check them out. The four Grand Duchesses were still asleep in their room. “What’s wrong, dear?” Nicholas asked, when he saw the worried look on his wife’s face.

“I was just wondering if it’s safe for Alexei to be playing sports.” Alexandra replied.

“Alix, you must remember that our son is fit now. We don’t have to worry about him anymore.”

“I know, Nicky, but old habits die hard.” Alexandra said with a smile.

At that point, the door beeper went off, indicating that someone was at the door. Nicholas got up and answered it. Standing there was Dr. Eugene Botkin. “Hello, Doctor. How are you settling in.”

“As well as can be expected, sir.” Botkin replied.

“I think we can drop the formalities here, I don’t think they matter much anymore. You can call me Nicholas.”

“Very well..Nicholas.” Botkin replied. “I guess you can call me Eugene. Anyway, I’ve been visiting the various medical facilities here in New Moscow. To say I was impressed would be an understatement. These people can easily treat and cure injuries, illnesses, and diseases that were almost always fatal in our time. They were very nice to me, but they made me feel like a first class witch doctor. What can I possibly do to help these people, Nicholas, I’m a thousand years out of date!”

“Well perhaps you could take some medical course.” Nicholas suggested. “They must offer them here.”

“Go back to school? I’m sixty-three years old.” Botkin said.

“According to Sarah, the people of this century can live for over two hundred years.”

“Hmmmm, makes sense.” Botkin replied. “Given the obvious advances in science and medicine in the last thousand years. After all, in the Dark Ages, people were considered old if they made it to thirty.”

“So perhaps you can find a place here, Eugene. After all, it seems we’re here to stay.” Nicholas pointed out.

“Oh, that reminds me, they want blood samples from all of us. Since you all know me, they asked me to collect them. I’ve already done the others, including myself.” He held up a small round device. “With this, the samples can be taken without even breaking the skin. That doctor we met when we first arrived, the one that cured Alexei...”

“Dr. Hatch.” Nicholas said.

“Right, Dr. Hatch, he showed me how to do it.”
“Why do they want these blood samples?” Nicholas asked.

“Apparently it’s to update their medical database on us.”

“Makes sense, I suppose.” Nicholas said. “Well, you can do Alexandra and myself now. The girls are still asleep and Alexei is out somewhere.”

“I know, I saw him.” Botkin said. “They have some kind of game here, it resembles English Rugby. Apparently, Alexei convinced them to let him join in a game. From what I saw, he’s having a great time.”

“Is he really?” Alexandra asked as she arrived on the scene. “Nothing is happening to him, nothing bad.”

“No, not what I saw.” Botkin said.

“That’s good to hear.” Nicholas said and turned to Alexandra. “I don’t think we need to worry about Alexei anymore, he’s going to be fine.”

“I guess he is.” Alexandra replied.

“Well, Eugene, I guess you can start taking those blood samples now.” Nicholas as he turned his attention back to the doctor.

“Right, I’ll do you and the Tsarina now, and I’ll get samples from the girls and Alexei later.”

Hmmmm, part of me still wonders why they want these blood samples. Nicholas thought. I get the feeling there is more here than what they told Eugene.


A few hours later, Sarah and Dr. Thomas Hatch were having a meeting in his office at one of the medical facilities. “Is it done?” Sarah asked.

“Yes, we have blood samples from all of them now.” Hatch replied.

“How soon can you get started?”

“Give me a day or so.” Hatch said. “Sarah, shouldn’t we tell them the truth, the real reason why we wanted these samples?”

“We will, but not yet.” Sarah said. “They may not understand, and I don’t want to shock them with the news yet. They already have a lot to adjust to.”

“I understand.” Hatch said.

“Good, keep me informed of your progress, Dr. Hatch.”


Around that same time, Joe was waiting in one of the many plazas of New Moscow, when he saw the familiar figure of Tatiana approaching. “I see you got my message.” Joe said, once the Grand Duchess had reached him.

“Yes, but it wasn’t easy.” Tatiana replied. “Mama started asking questions, but my sisters managed to head her off. They know what happened last night.”

“Good to have family looking out for you.”

“So what is it you wanted to show me, Joe?” Tatiana asked. “I’m very curious.”

“Well, you remember how you all first got here, that green glow, well that was a temporal teleport. However, we can also transport through space as well as time.” Joe explained. “How does that old saying go, oh yeah: Beam me up, Scotty.”

Tatiana just looked at him.

“Oops, sorry, forgot. That was after your time. Anyway, Tatiana, follow me.” Joe led Tatiana to a small glassed in chamber at the edge of the plaza that was big enough to hold two people.

“We’re going in there?” Tatiana asked.

“Yes, but not for long. Trust me.” Joe opened the chamber and Tatiana warily stepped inside. Joe followed, closing the chamber behind him. “Orbital Station One.” Joe said. Seconds later, the two of them were enveloped in a blue glow and vanished.


“Where are we?” Tatiana asked as Joe led her out of a glassed in chamber similar to the one they had entered. However, they were now in a totally different location, a large room with white walls.

“Orbital Station One.” Joe said as he worked some controls. The wall in front of them faded away and they were treated to a view of the Earth from space.

“I.... I....” Tatiana stuttered.

“Don’t be afraid.” Joe said as he walked over and wrapped his arms protectively around her. “We’re safe here, Tatiana. I just wanted you to see our world from space.”

In Joe’s arms, Tatiana did begin to feel safe. Gradually, she felt her fear ebbing away and a new feeling replacing it, one she rather liked.

“Look, there’s Russia.” Joe said and pointed at the landmass of Russia that was now visible on the Earth beneath them.

“It’s breathtaking.” Tatiana said. “I know we had globes at the palace, but to see it like this....”

“I come here often.” Joe said. “Did you know that your people were the ones that started this all?”

“Really? How?”

“In 1957, Russia launched the first artificial satellite into orbit, it was called Sputnik. That’s what started humanity’s quest into space, Tatiana. Your people were the ones that opened the door. Later, we went on to the Moon, Mars, and finally the stars.” He pointed as the various glowing stars that could be seen in space.

“They’re beautiful.”

“Yes, they are. However, there is something even more beautiful.” Joe said.

“What is it?” Tatiana asked.

“You, Tatiana.” Joe replied and the two of them slipped into a passionate kiss.

After a few moments Tatiana murmured “Dimitri... My darling.”

Joe stopped. “Dimitri? Who’s Dimitri!?” he asked as he pulled just far enough away from Tatiana to look at her clearly. She was in his arms, but her eyes seemed a thousand years removed from him. He thought they were grey and now they appeared to be almost black. “Dimitri?” Joe asked again.

“Oh Joe, what did I say?” Tatiana asked as she returned to herself.

“You called me Dimitri.”

“Did I?” Tatiana replied, the conflicting emotions showing on her face.

“Who was he?” Joe asked

“Dimitri Malama was an officer I met at our hospital when he was wounded during the war. Then he was appointed as an equerry to the Court at Tsarskoe Selo. He gave me my little dog, Ortino.” She smiled for a moment, but then became concerned. “Joe, please forgive me. He and I were in love. It was impossible of course. It was always impossible, because we were never really alone. I dreamt of kissing him like that so many times before and it seemed like I was in one of those dreams. I am so sorry.” The realization that Dimitri had now been dead for nearly ten centuries only added to Tatiana’s confused feelings.

“Tatiana...” Joe began, but broke off, not really knowing what to say next.

“Joe, we were suddenly transported here and then we’re told it’s a thousand years ahead of our own time.” Tatiana said intently, while once again looking within. She wanted him to understand. “I must believe that, and I do, but, Joe, inside, it’s still 1918 for me. I believe for the others in my family as well. It’s going to take time to uncoil our feelings from our own time. It seems there are no transporters for emotions as yet.”

“I understand.” Joe said softly.

“Please take me back.” Tatiana said, the tears now spilling down her face. She needed more time to figure her feelings out, before she could risk becoming any more involved with Joe.


Later that day, back in the Grand Duchesses’s room, Anastasia and Maria had discovered yet another icon from the twenty-first century from the World Archives. “I think Kevin is the cute one.” Anastasia said.

“No, Nick is much cuter.” Maria replied.

“He is not. Kevin is much better looking. Not to mention Joe.”

“What are you two talking about?” Olga said as she walked up and saw her two sisters watching the screen. She had been so busy keeping her mother occupied during Tatiana’s absence, and was so busy keeping an eye out for Tatiana’s return that she didn’t have time to take in what was on the screen. “Who’s popular now?”

“The Jonas Brothers.” Anastasia said. “They were popular in the early twenty-first century.”

“Oh, like that Hannah Banana you two were watching the other day.” Olga said. Both Maria and Anastasia burst into laughter. “What so funny?”

“It’s Hannah MONTANA, Olga.” Anastasia said between laughs.

“You’re really enjoying this stuff, Nastya?”

“Well, a thousand years may have passed, but I still just turned seventeen.” Anastasia replied.

“We’re gradually working our way backward.” Maria said. “Tomorrow, Nastya and I are going to try the 1990's. Perhaps you’d like to join us, Olga. I’m sure we’ll find something you’d like.”

“Perhaps later.” Olga said. “Right now I’m wondering what’s taking Tatiana so long. It’s been hours. I can’t keep Mama distracted forever.”

“I’m sure she’ll be back soon.” Maria said.

Almost on cue, Tatiana did return, but something was wrong, she was crying. Quickly, her three sisters headed to Tatiana’s bed, where she had flopped down on, Ortino by her side.

“Tanya, what’s wrong?” Olga asked. “Did Joe do something wrong?”

“No, he was a perfect gentleman.” Tatiana replied and blew her nose. “I was the one that made the mistake.” she then told her sisters about her little faux pas.

“Whoops.” Anastasia said.

“It’s just that the feelings I have for Joe remind me so much of those I had for Dimitri.” Tatiana went on. “After Dimitri, it was so hard for me to open my heart to another man. Then I m... meet....Joe a... and. Oh God!” she burst into a fresh set of tears.

“It will be all right, Tanya, we’re here for you. We’ll help you anyway we can.” Olga said soothingly. She slowly got into bed next to Tatiana and wrapped her arms around her sobbing sister. Maria and Anastasia followed suit. The four Grand Duchesses remained in that position for some time, Olga, Maria, and Anastasia comforting Tatiana, protecting her, and all eventually fell asleep.

[Tim]

Once he got back home, Joe quickly consulted the World Archives and soon found the information he was looking for, that on Dimitri Malama. Joe poured over Dimitri’s life, his meeting with Tatiana, and finally, his tragic death. Dimitri, Joe discovered, had been killed in the Russian Civil War, that had followed the revolution, while leading a unit of White Russians. He died in August, 1919, just over one year after Sarah rescued Tatiana and the others from Ipatiev House. Joe thought. As he read, Joe saw that Tatiana and Dimitri had been in love, as she herself had said, but circumstances had kept them apart. Joe eventually uncovered a picture of Tatiana, in her nurses uniform, with the wounded Dimitri. Joe quickly realized that he was in competition for Tatiana’s heart, in competition with a man that had died almost a thousand years before he was born. With time, Joe sincerely hoped, he could win that competion.


The morning found Nicholas, Alexandra, and Alexei enjoying breakfast. “This is delicious.” Alexei said as he shoveled more food into his mouth.

“Alexei, slow down, you’ll choke!” Alexandra said. Truthfully, it was good to see her son with such a good appetite.

“Sorry, Mama, but I need the energy. I’m playing in another game today.”

“You are?” Nicholas asked.

“Yes, my new friends asked me to join them again. Which reminds me, I better be off.” With that Alexei finished his food and headed out the door.

“Well, it seems our son is fitting in quite well here.” Nicholas said. “Of course, this time has given him opportunities that our time couldn’t.”

“It’s good to see him so fit.” Alexandra replied. “All those years of worry, and now...” she trailed off.

“It’s all right, Alix, I know.” Nicholas said and placed
his hand over his wife’s.

Before Alexandra could reply, they were joined by Olga, Maria, and Anastasia. “Looks good.” Anastasia said, eyeing the food on the table.

“Where’s Tatiana?” Alexandra asked.

“Sleeping in.” Olga replied.

“Yeah, she had a rough night.” Maria added.

“Oh dear, she’s not ill, is she?”

“No, Mama, she’s fine.” Anastasia said. “Uh, I think she is still having problems adjusting to this time. We’ll take her some food when we finish our own breakfast.”

“That’s probably it, dear.” Nicholas added. “Not all of us will adjust to this time as fast as Alexei has.”

“Hmmmm...” Alexandra muttered as she watched her three daughters begin to eat. Her mother instinct was on high alert. There’s something going on here. she thought. It seems every time I want to talk to Tatiana, one of the other girls always intercepts me. Why? Alexandra knew of the bond her four daughters shared, and the secrets they sometimes kept between them. Clearly there was a secret between them now, and it involved Tatiana. But what was it?


Tatiana was still lying on her bed when Olga, Maria, and Anastasia returned with some food. “Tanya, we brought you some breakfast.” Maria said.

“I’m not hungry.” Tatiana replied sadly.

“Tanya, you have to eat.” Olga said. “Starving yourself won’t help.”

“Please eat something.” Anastasia said. She hated seeing her big sister so sad like this.

“Oh,,very well.” Tatiana sighed as she sat up and took the food Olga was holding. It tasted good, and her stomach did seem to be thankful. However, the heartache remained.

“Still thinking about Dimitri?” Olga asked.

“Him, and others.” Tatiana replied. “What about the rest of our family? What about our other friends? Did they survive the revolution?”

“That’s a good question.” Olga said. “We could ask Sarah to check for us.”

“No, there’s no point in that, Olga. Even if they did survive, they’re all dead now. Everyone we ever knew is dead.”

“I know.” Olga said. “We all do. Adjusting to this new time is not easy. Alexei seems to be managing, but not all of us will adjust so fast. However, Tanya, there are some good things too. The hemophilia has been eradicated from all of us. Now we don’t have to worry about passing it on to whatever children we may have.”

“Which brings us back to Joe.” Tatiana sighed.

“Let me handle this.” Maria suddenly announced. “After all, I’m somewhat of an expert on boys.”

“That’s for sure.” Anastasia said. “You even had some private fun with one of our guards at Ipatiev House!”

“He was cute. And he snuck in a cake for my birthday.” Maria recalled the incident. It was her nineteenth birthday and one of the guards at Ipatiev House, Ivan Skorokhodov, had managed to sneak in a birthday cake. Maria, being the young and flirtatious girl that she was, had taken a liking to the kind guard. Things had gotten a little too friendly, and the two of them had been discovered in a compromising situation. Needless to say, Skorokhodov had been quickly reassigned and the incident caused some friction between Maria and the rest of the family. Of course, they eventually reconciled.

“You always have been such a flirt.” Anastasia replied. “You seem to have a way with boys, almost magical at times.”

“Regardless, I think I can help here, if Tanya wants me to.”

“All right, Maria, I’ll listen.” Tatiana said.

“Okay, Tanya, part of the problem was that we were all prisoners, long before Ipatiev House.” Maria said.

“What do you mean?”

“I mean that I was somewhat of a flirt, we all were at times, but do you think we would be have been allowed to seriously be with whomever we chose? Of course not. We were bound by the duties and protocols of being Grand Duchesses. When we got old enough, we would have been expected to marry into the other Royal households of Europe, regardless of how we felt. That was our prison. I know you loved Dimitri, but both your duties and his kept you two apart until it was too late. However, this is different. We’ve left all that behind in the past. We’re free, all of us, we can love whomever we want to be with. From what I have heard, Tanya, you’ve been given a second chance at love. Don’t throw it away.”

Tatiana looked at Maria, who at the moment seemed much older and wiser than her nineteen years. After a few moments of silence, she reached a decision. “I have to go to Joe, I have to talk to him.”

“Well, as they said on one of those television shows I watched: ‘You go girl!’” Anastasia said, clapping her hands.

“Well, I guess I’ll keep Mama busy again.” Olga said with a sigh, wondering how much longer she could keep her mother at bay.


Joe was just getting ready to head out to the Kiev Dig Site, when a knock sounded at his door. “Tatiana!” Joe said when he answered the door and saw her standing there. “I wasn’t sure if I was ever going to see you again.”

“Can I come in?” Tatiana asked. “I really need to talk to you.”

“Of course.” Joe said as he stepped aside for the Grand Duchess to enter. Soon, they were both sitting on Joe’s couch. “Once again let me apologize for yesterday.” Tatiana said.

“You don’t have to, Tatiana.” Joe replied. “After you left, I consulted the World Archives for information on Dimitri Malama. I found quite a bit.”

“Really? What did you find?”

“Do you really want to know, Tatiana?” Joe asked. “The information is not pleasant.”

Tatiana thought for a few moments and then said. “Yes, tell me everything.”

“Okay.” Joe replied and went on to tell her what he had found out about Dimitri, including his tragic death. “From what I was able to uncover, in the last year of his life, he took every risky mission there was. He seemed to have no regard for his life, it was almost if he had a death wish. It was because...”

“Because of me.” Tatiana said, her eyes growing wet with tears. “He thought I was dead, and didn’t want to go on living.” Joe got her a tissue and she blew her nose. “It must seem silly to you, getting all worked up over someone who died so long ago.”

“No, Tatiana, it isn’t.” Joe gently replied and took her hand in his. “I understand that for you it was not so long ago. You’re not the first person from the past I have met. I’ve just never become so involved with any of the others.”

“I guess death was destined to separate Dimitri and myself.” Tatiana went on. “At first it seemed it would be my death, but, as you know, Sarah transported us all here. It wasn’t my death, it was Dimitri’s, ten centuries ago. Death was a wall between us, it just wasn’t meant to be.”

“Tatiana...”

“No, Joe, please, I have to say this.” Tatiana continued. “You are the first man I’ve opened my heart to since Dimitri. There are just so many feelings involved.”

“I understand.” Joe replied. “Listen, would you like to go for another walk with me. We can talk, Tatiana. Please, let me help.”

“I’d like that.” Tatiana replied softly.


The walk turned into an all day hike along the Dnieper and evening found them laying together at the side of the river, looking up at the stars. “They are so many.” Tatiana said.

“I know.” Joe said and began to point some out. “That’s Alpha Centauri, the closet star to our Sun. That’s Polaris, commonly known as the North Star. That’s Vega, I was in that system once, on a dig.”

“Really?” Tatiana asked.

“Yeah, we found ruins of an ancient alien civilization there. They flourished long before life began on Earth. Of course, once we moved out among the stars, we met other races. Some even live here on Earth now.”

“I know, I saw one of them a few days ago.”

“You did? What happened?” Joe asked.

“I fainted.” Tatiana replied and then burst into laughter. “The poor, uh, man, apparently didn’t expect that!”

“Well, there weren’t many aliens walking the Earth in the early twentieth century.” Joe said and began to laugh with her. A moment later, Joe moved in to kiss her again, but stopped and looked into her eyes.

“Yes.” Tatiana replied, returning his gaze. “I’m here.” She sighed blissfully as she felt his lips touch hers, and the two of them melted into a series of kisses. If this is a dream, I never want to wake up. Tatiana thought as the feelings of passion carried her away.


Meanwhile, Olga, Maria, and Anastasia were wondering about what was happening with Tatiana. “She’s been gone all day.” Olga said.

“Maybe that’s a good sign.” Maria replied.

“Do you think she’s getting laid?” Anastasia said mischieviously.

“Nastya!” Olga said, her eyes going wide. “You been watching too many of those television shows. You’re starting to sound like them.”

Before Anastasia could reply, the door to the Grand Duchesses’s room opened and Alexandra stormed in. From the look on the Tsarina’s face, they could tell she was not just coming in to say hello.

“Mama, what’s wrong?” Olga asked, fearing she already knew the answer.

“You know what’s wrong.” Alexandra replied as she swept her stern gaze over her three daughters. “No more excuses, no more diversions. You’re keeping something from me and it involves Tatiana. I want to know where she is and I want to know NOW!”

Olga, Maria, and Anastasia looked uneasily at each other.

“I’m waiting!” Alexandra said. “Where is Tatiana!?”

“Very well, Mama, she’s with Joe.” Olga said.

“Joe? You mean that young man we met the other day?”

“Yes, him.” Maria said.

“Why is Tatiana with him now?”

“Well, Mama, I think she’s fallen in love with him.” Anastasia said. “At least that is how it seemed to me.”

“What!?” Alexandra said. “Why would she do that? I mean, why would she keep this from me?” The revelation had taken Alexandra by surprise. She and Tatiana had always been close. For Tatiana to keep this a secret from her defied belief.

“Mama, it’s not our place to say.” Olga said. “You have to ask Tatiana herself when she comes back.”

“Oh, I plan to do just that.” Alexandra replied, folding her arms. It’s a good thing Nicky decided to accompany Alexei to that sporting event. I can’t imagine how he would react. she thought.


Twenty minutes later, Tatiana returned to the Romanov’s quarters, almost floating on air, as she reflected the wonderful day she and Joe had together. They had kissed, they shared an intimate dinner, and finally, they had danced the evening away. Tomorrow, Joe had said he wanted to show her the Kiev Dig Site, and Tatiana had said yes. She was curious to see just what remained of the city she had known in her former time. Tatiana entered the Grand Duchesses bedroom and was about to recount the evening with her sisters, when she saw her mother standing there too, a stern look on her face.

“Mama knows.” Anastasia said.

“I figured as much.” Tatiana sighed, knowing that there was no escape.

“You have some explaining to do, young lady!” Alexandra said sharply.

“Uh, why don’t we get something to eat.” Olga said as she prodded Maria and Anastasia.

“Huh? What?” Maria asked.

“Let’s get something to eat.” Olga replied and herded the two youngest Grand Duchesses out of the room.

“Well?” Alexandra asked, once she and Tatiana were alone.

“Well what?”

“What do you mean ‘Well what?’ You know exactly what I mean, Tatiana. You’ve been sneaking off to see that Joe, haven’t you.”

“Very well, yes I have.” Tatiana said as she headed over to her bed. “And I plan to see him again tomorrow.”

“Do you now?” Alexandra said. “I would have expected this kind of behavior from Maria, but not you!”
“This is not just some casual flirt, Mama. I love Joe, and he loves me.”

“You love him!? Tanya, it’s only been a few days. This is much too quick.”

“It doesn’t feel like days when I’m with Joe, Mama.” Tatiana replied. “That’s all I can say.”

“But you’re a Grand Duchess! This....” she trailed off.

“A Grand Duchess? Of what?” Tatiana laughed sharply. “Of a country that ceased to exist nearly a thousand years ago? Don’t forget, Mama, that same country wanted us dead. If Sarah hadn’t rescued us, that is exactly what would have happened!”

Alexandra staggered as Tatiana’s words hit home. Those men had wanted to kill them all. The country she had called home for many years had become a hostile and deadly place.

“Mama, what we were back then no longer matters.” Tatiana said as she reached out a hand and steadied her mother, the gesture softening her feelings. After a moment, Tatiana continued. “The war years, the revolution, and all those months of captivity taught me to take happiness when it appears, there’s nothing to wait for anymore.”

“I never saw it that way.” Alexandra said slowly. “I mean I knew all of you were growing up, but part of me wished you could stay home with your father and me forever.”

“Every mother probably feels that way.” Tatiana replied and then told her mother something she had often thought of during their captivity, but had never shared with anyone. Now she wanted her mother to know. “Mother, if I had seen our future back then, I would never have let Dimitri go that last time without telling him how I really felt. Never. I missed my chance at finding love. Now, I have another one. Please, Mama, your support would mean a lot to me.”

Alexandra stood and stared at her daughter. In her mind, she pictured Tatiana as the little girl who used to run and play at the Palace and on the family yacht. That little girl was gone now, replaced by the beautiful young woman that stood before her. “Do you truly love Joe, Tanya, with all your heart?” Alexandra slowly asked.

“Yes, Mama, I do love him, with all my heart.” Tatiana replied.

“Then I have no right to stand in your way.” Alexandra said. “If you love him, Tanya, then I will not stop you from seeing him. I won’t let you be heartbroken again.”

“Oh Mama.” Tatiana said as she and her mother embraced.


“Move over, I can’t hear anything!” Anastasia said as she and Maria had their ears up against the door to the Grand Duchesses room.

“I can.” Maria said. “Did you hear what Tanya said after Mama mentioned Grand Duchesses?” Her blue saucer eyes were at their widest.

“Yes, I heard that part. Well, Tatiana is right.”

“What did Mama mean by saying that she would expect that kind of behavior from me?” Maria asked.

Anastasia didn’t even bother to reply. To her it was a silly question.

Suddenly, the door opened. Maria and Anastasia jumped back as Tatiana and Alexandra came out of the room.

“Did you get a good earful?” Tatiana asked her sisters.

“Earful of what?” Anastasia replied, a look of innocence crossing her face. Of course, she wasn’t fooling anyone.


When Tatiana arrived at Joe’s house the next day, he said he had a surprise for her. “What is it?” she asked.

“Here, let me show you.” Joe replied and led Tatiana into his living room, where a grand piano was set up. “Surprise!”

“A piano!?” Tatiana said with astonishment. “Where did you get it?”

“I had it made.”

“So quickly? I’ll never get used to this time.”

“I heard that you played the piano. I’d like to hear you.”

“Well, to tell you the truth, Joe, Olga is much better than I am.” Tatiana replied.

“Let me be the judge of that. Please, I’d really like to hear you play for me.”

“Very well.” Tatiana said and sat down at the piano. Slowly, she began to play, the tune being a lullaby her mother used to sing for her when she was little. As she played, she found herself singing along.

“That was incredible.” Joe said, clapping his hands, one Tatiana had finished.

“I’ve never played like this before.” Tatiana said. “I mean I know the notes, but I was never able to put emotion into it.”

“Well, you could have fooled me.”

“Perhaps it’s because I have love to inspire me now.” Tatiana said and smiled at Joe.

“That may be. Play some more, Tatiana.”

Tatiana resumed her playing and singing. Of course, her voice was not the only thing singing that day, for her heart sang too.

[Tim]

Meanwhile, Nicholas and Dr. Botkin were meeting Sarah at one of New Moscow’s medical facilities. “You asked us to come?” Nicholas said.

“Yes, I have something to show you two.” Sarah replied. She led Nicholas and Botkin into a lab, where Dr. Hatch was waiting. “You two remember Dr. Hatch.”

“Yes, good to see you again.” Nicholas said. “Now, what is this all about?”

“This.” Hatch said and gestured to eleven nearby tables, on which eleven skeletons could be seen.

“I don’t understand.” Nicholas said. “Who’s bones are those?”

“Yours.” Sarah replied.

“What!?”

“You remember those blood samples we took from you the other day. Well, we grew these skeletons from them.” Sarah said. “They match you all perfectly, even down to your DNA.”

“But.... But why?” Botkin asked.

“Because history records that all your skeletal remains were eventually found, buried in forest near Ekaterinburg.” Sarah replied. “So, once we do the damage to these skeletons to correspond to the historical accounts, we’ll time teleport them back into the location where they will eventually be found. The DNA tests will indicate that they are your remains, since we grew them from your own blood.”

“That’s amazing.” Nicholas said.

“There’s more.” Sarah said. “Yakov Yurovsky had a second meeting with Lenin, Stalin, and Trotsky about a week after the one you watched. Here is what transpired at this second meeting.” A screen on the wall came to life and once again Nicholas was treated to the events of 1918.

**********

“Welcome back, comrade.” Lenin said as Yakov Yurovsky was once again brought before him, Stalin, and Trotsky. “I’ve changed my mind, you’re to be released from house arrest.”

“I am?” Yurovsky asked warily.

“Of course, all you have to do is sign this document, and you’ll be free.” Lenin pushed a sheet of paper across the table to Yurovsky.

“I don’t understand.” Yurovsky said, once he had read the document in question.

“It’s quite simple.” Lenin replied. “By signing the
document, you agree never to speak of what really happened at Ipatiev House again. Should anyone ask, or should you ever take it to write your memoirs, you will say that the executions were successfully carried out and the bodies were disposed of in the way that the document describes. Your original report, and all copies of it, have been destroyed. No one must ever know of this ‘green glow’ that took the Romanov’s away.”

“The rest of your men have already been given similar documents to sign.” Trotsky said.

“It would be in your best interest, and that of your family, for you to sign too.” Stalin said in a sinister voice.

Yurovsky needed no further persuasion. He quickly signed his name to the document.

“Well done, comrade.” Lenin said as he took back the document. “You may go.”

“Yes sir.” Yurovsky said and quickly left the room.

“You think he will remain silent?” Trotsky asked after a few moments.

“Yes, he will.” Lenin replied. “Yurovsky is a loyal Bolshevik, he will never betray the revolution.”

“Besides, he knows what will happen to him, and his family, if he talks.” Stalin said.

“But what did happen to the Imperial Family?” Trotsky asked.

“That, comrade, is a question we may never know the answer to.” Lenin said. “However, it doesn’t matter. They’re gone, and are no longer a threat to us, or the revolution. That is all that matters.”

Yakov Yurovsky was indeed a loyal Bolshevik. For the remainder of his life, he never said another word about what truly happened at Ipatiev House. He and his men took that secret with them to the grave.

**********

“The skeletons will be damaged in a way that matches with the fake report that Lenin made Yurovsky sign. History will play out as it should.” Sarah said.

“They were right.” Nicholas said, once the image had
faded from the screen. “All those theories about us surviving were right. It’s just that they never knew how we survived.”


When Nicholas got back to the Romanov’s quarters, he saw that Alexandra was setting lunch at the table. He was about to tell the family what he had just seen, when he noticed that they were one short. “Where’s Tatiana?”

Before anyone could stop her, Maria piped up. “She’s with Joe.”

“Joe?”

“That archeologist we met the other day.” Alexandra said.

“Oh, him.” Nicholas said as he recalled the young man in question. “She’s taken a fancy to him?”

“More than that...OUCH!” Anastasia squealed as Olga kicked her under the table. She shot dagger eyes at her older sister and rubbed her shin.

“What’s going on?” Nicholas asked as he shot a glance around the table.

“It’s all right, Nicky, I talked to her yesterday.” Alexandra said. “It seems our Tatiana has fallen in love. Once she told me how she truly felt, I gave it my blessing. After all, we can’t keep our children shielded forever, much as we’d like to.”

Nicholas said nothing for a few moments. He trusted Alexandra’s judgement on a lot of things, and she and Tatiana were very close. If Alix was comfortable with this, then he should be too. However, a small part of him remained unconvinced. “Well, I suppose I’ll defer this to your judgement, Alix.” Nicholas said. For now at least. he thought.


As promised Joe took Tatiana to the Kiev Dig Site and showed her around the excavations that were taking place. They soon ran into one of Joe’s colleagues. “This is Gary Mitchell.” Joe said, indicating a young man who was about the same age as he was.

“Pleased to meet you. I’m Tatiana Romanov.” Tatiana said.

“Likewise.” Gary said. “You look familiar. Have we met?”

“No, I don’t think so.” Tatiana replied as she exchanged a mischievous glance with Joe. “Joe and I have only known each other a short time.”

“Well, it will probably come to me.” Gary said. He made some more small talk and then wandered away.

“Forgive Gary.” Joe said to Tatiana. “Sometimes he can get so wrapped up in things that he misses the very obvious.”

“I don’t mind.” Tatiana replied. “It’s nice to be regarded as a normal person, instead of a Grand Duchess for a change. Let’s continue with our tour.”

“Right.” Joe said and took her arm in his.


Some time later, Tatiana found herself standing at the corner of two former roads, just staring. Joe became concerned. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing.” Tatiana said. “It’s just that there was a bakery here on this spot in my time. When my family and I were in Kiev, we always came here. The man that owned the bakery, Pavel Smirnoff, always made cookies for me and my sisters. We loved them. We used to beg Papa to bring us here for more cookies. Pavel was a dear sweet old man.” She paused, her eyes once again deep in the past. “I wonder what happened to him?”

“I’m sorry, Tatiana, maybe I shouldn’t have brought you here.” Joe said. Mentally, he kicked himself. To him, this had always been just an archeological dig, a place to find relics of the past. However, to Tatiana, this had been a living city, she had once walked its streets, mingled with its people. This must be so hard for her. he thought.

“No, I’m fine.” Tatiana said after a moment of silence. “It’s just more adjusting I have to do to living in this time.”

“You want to continue?”

“Yes, I’d like to. Maybe there are other memories I can find here. Don’t worry, I can handle it.” The two of them held hands and walked on.


Later, the two of them were back at Joe’s. “Thank you for that tour.” Tatiana said. “Maybe I could help you on your research. After all, I’m a living witness to the city of Kiev.”

“I never thought of that.” Joe said as he walked up behind Tatiana and wrapped his arms around her. “I’d love for you to join my team. That means we can be together even more.” He began to softly kiss her neck and slowly moved up to her left ear.

“That tickles!” Tatiana said, giggling.

Joe turned her around and the two of them began kissing each other with a passion. The fires of love were suddenly burning deep within both their hearts. After a few moments, Joe swept Tatiana up in his arms and carried her over to his bed. The two of them collapsed on said bed, still kissing. Cautiously, Joe reached down and gave Tatiana’s right breast a soft squeeze. He pulled his hand back, and waited.

“Joe.... Yes....” Tatiana moaned. “Please don’t stop.”

“Are you sure?” Joe asked, realizing what Tatiana wanted.

“Yes...” Tatiana sighed. “Love me, Joe. Keep me
warm.”

Joe needed no further encouragement.


Hours later, in a state of bliss, Tatiana returned to the Romanov’s quarters. Somehow, she made it past her parents and into the Grand Duchesses room. “Well, look who’s back.” Maria said.

“Huh?” Tatiana said. “What did you say?”

“Tanya, what’s wrong?” Olga asked when she saw how dazed Tatiana seemed to be.

“She’s had sex!” Anastasia said and grinned.

“NASTYA!” Olga said, not believing her little sister would just blurt something out like that. Clearly those strange shows and movies she had been watching were continuing to influence her.

“Imp is right.” Tatiana sighed and drifted over to her bed. “Although I would call it making love.”

“I knew it.” Anastasia said.

“Although it happened because Joe and I love each other.”

“All right, you two, out!” Olga said to Maria and Anastasia. “Tanya and I need to have a big sister conversation.”

“Aw, we miss all the good stuff.” Maria said with a pout.

“Out! And close the door behind you.”

Sullenly, Maria and Anastasia left the room.

Once they were alone, Olga returned her attention to Tatiana. “Tanya, I... This....”

“It’s all right, Olga.” Tatiana said. “It was wonderful, I felt so alive and liberated. I wish I could describe it, but it’s something you have to experience for yourself.”

“Well, that could take a while.”

“You’ll find someone in this time, Olga. After all, I did.” Tatiana paused for a moment, clearly, she had more to say.

“Tanya, what is it?”

“Joe asked me to move in with him. I said yes.”

“Oh my.” Olga said. “Do Mama and Papa know about this?”

“Not yet. I’m going to tell them tomorrow, at breakfast.”

“Tanya, are you sure about this? Are you absolutely sure?”

“I’ve never been more sure about anything in my life.” Tatiana replied.

Olga didn’t reply, but just looked into her sister’s eyes. The two of them could read each other’s eyes effortlessly. “Tanya, I will miss you so.”

“I’ll miss you too, Olga.” Tatiana said. She had never known a day or night without Olga at her side.

“But, Tanya, I’m so very happy for you. So very happy!” The two sisters embraced, both laughing and crying at the same time. At that point, the door opened and Maria and Anastasia came in and joined them, clearly, they had been listening at the door. However, at this point, neither Olga nor Tatiana cared. The four Grand Duchesses just held each other, sharing their bond as sisters.


The trouble started the next morning when, while the Imperial Family were having breakfast, that Tatiana made her announcement. “I’m moving in with Joe.”

At first, no one said anything, but then Nicholas replied. “Well, that’s quite a short notice. We barely have time to make arrangements.”

“Arrangements? For what?” Tatiana asked.

“The wedding.” Nicholas said.

“What wedding!?”

“Yours of course.” Nicholas replied.

“Papa, I’m not getting married.” Tatiana said.

“You just said that you’re moving in with Joe.” Nicholas replied with puzzlement. “Surely you plan to get married first.”

“No, Papa, I don’t. Joe and I are just going to live together.”

“What? Huh? Surely not!”

“I’m not a child anymore, Papa.”

“No, but unmarried women do not live with men, outside of their own families, that is.”

“Maybe not in the nineteenth century, Papa, but this is a thousand years later. Men and women have been doing this for centuries now.” Tatiana pointed out.

“Really, and I suppose you plan to sleep with this man without marrying him too!” Nicholas snapped as he started to lose his cool.

“I already have!” Tatiana shot back.

“WHAT!?” Nicholas screamed as his face began to turn red. He began to sputter with rage. How could this have happened?

“You heard me. Joe and I slept together, and I regret nothing.” Tatiana said.

“You... You.... You prostitute yourself like some common street whore, and now you tell me that you regret nothing!?”

“How dare you say that to me!” Tatiana yelled. “I never ‘prostituted’ myself to anyone! I love Joe and he loves me. THAT is why we made love. Besides, as I said, men and women in this time...”

“I don’t care what other men and women do!” Nicholas snapped, cutting her off. “You’re a Grand Duchess! You’re expected to aspire to a higher standard!”

“Nicky! Tanya! Stop it, both of you.” Alexandra said, trying to intervene, but it was too late, the die was cast.

“Oh Papa, you have eyes, but you don’t see.” Tatiana said, shaking her head. “I’m NOT a Grand Duchess, not anymore. I stopped being a Grand Duchess the day you abdicated the throne. From this day forward, I renounce that now meaningless title. I am Tatiana Romanov, Citizen of Earth!”

“Bravo!” Nicholas said and sarcastically began to clap his hands. “So now you spit on your birthright as well!”

“Oh, Papa, I still love you, and the family, but we were all blind to the truth.”

“Oh, and what truth was that?”

“That the Russian Empire was decadent, ruled by a corrupt aristocratic establishment that fought every change a Tsar tried to make for over a hundred years.” Tatiana said. “Our British relatives, they did it right. Their monarchy evolved and changed with the times. We didn’t, and the revolution was the result.”

“So now you blame me for the revolution?” Nicholas asked, getting angrier.

“No, Papa, it wasn’t your fault, at least not entirely. As I said, it was the establishment, run by an aristocracy not willing to concede to any changes, lest they be forced to give up even one of their perks. They resisted, they fought progress, and look what happened. They lost everything. This was happening long before you assumed the throne, Papa. We were just unlucky to be there when it finally blew up in our faces.”

“And I suppose your lover..” Nicholas spat out the word. “..has been whispering these words into your ear while you two frolicked in bed together!”

“No, Papa, it was the war and revolution that first opened my eyes.” Tatiana replied sternly. “Joe may have made things more clear for me, but my doubts were already there. Papa, you must face the truth, the Russia you ruled was outdated, it needed change, but no one was willing to implement that change. Because of that, I, and my siblings, were prisoners, we were expected to marry whomever was deemed suitable for us, whether we loved them or not. I lost Dimitri because he was not considered proper for a Grand Duchess to marry. Well, that’s all gone now, I’m free. Joe and I are going to make a life together in this new time, not cling to some long dead ideals.”

“I forbid it!” Nicholas declared.

“I’m sorry, Papa, but you can’t stop me. Not anymore.”

“If you do this, you’re no longer my daughter!” The moment the words left his mouth, Nicholas wished he could take them back. His anger quickly evaporated, replaced by regret. He had let anger, not reason, control him.

“So be it.” Tatiana replied in a voice that would have frozen the Black Sea. She turned to Alexandra. “Mama, I’m so sorry. I didn’t want it to end this way.” She turned to her siblings. “Forgive me, all of you. I’ll send for Ortino and my things later.”

“Tanya, please, don’t go. Not like this.” Alexandra pleaded.

“I’m sorry, Mama, but I have to. I’ll be in touch, at least with you and my siblings, that is.” Tatiana then turned and walked away, not giving her father a backwards glance.

Alexandra burst into tears. Olga, Maria, Anastasia, and Alexei just sat at the table, their faces pale and mouths open, not believing what had just transpired.

Oh, you stupid, stupid, man! Nicholas thought to himself. How could I let this happen? The full realization was setting in. Tatiana hated him. He had seen it in her eyes, his own daughter hated him. Perhaps my critics were right, I’m a failure. I failed as a ruler and now I’ve failed as a father. Nicholas now found himself wishing that Sarah had left him to die at Ipatiev House. Anything would be better than the feelings of failure he was now having.


A short time later, Olga, Maria, Anastasia, and Alexei had retreated into the girls bedroom to discuss the situation. “Wow. I can’t believe Tanya said all those horrible things to Papa.” Alexei said. “What on Earth was wrong with her?”

“Hey, there were two people in that argument.” Maria replied. “Papa said some bad things too. Tanya was not entirely to blame.”

“Figures you would take her side.” Alexei snapped.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Maria snapped back.

“I mean that you four have always been as think as thieves. For all I know, the three of you secretly enjoyed seeing Papa humiliated like that.”

“Why you little...”

“Enough!” Olga shouted. “Doesn’t this family have enough problems right now without you two adding yet another one. We have to figure out a way to fix this.”

“I don’t see how.” Alexei said. “Tanya made it clear that she doesn’t want anything more to do with us.”

“Uh, were you even there?” Anastasia said to Alexei. “That’s not what she said at all. She said she didn’t want to be a Grand Duchess anymore, and, now that I think of it, it makes sense.”

“Really, how?” Alexei asked.

“Well, what does being a Grand Duchess mean now, in this world of 2893? Or being a Tsar, for that matter.”

“Hmmm, you raise an interesting point, Nastya.” Olga said. “Think of it, we were pulled from our time, a time in which we all lived by very strict rules, into this one, where those rules no longer apply. It was bound to sink in sooner or later. It happened to Tanya first because she fell in love. We’re all going to have to get used to the new ways, Papa included.”

“Well maybe we should go out and talk to him.” Maria suggested. “Carefully, of course.”

“Right, let’s go.” Olga said and led the four of them out into the main living area. However, they saw only Alexandra, still sitting at the table, crying. Nicholas was no where to be seen.

“Please don’t cry, Mama, we’ll find a way to mend this.” Olga said as she walked up and embraced her sobbing mother.

“Oh God, I hope so.” Alexandra sobbed. “The thought of your father and Tatiana never speaking to each other again....” She dissolved into a fresh wave of sobs.

“Where is Papa?” Alexei asked after a few moments.

“I don’t know.” Alexandra said between sobs. “He just got up and left. He didn’t say where he was going.”

“Well I hope he comes back before long.” Olga said. “We really need to talk to him.”

“Maybe we can get him and Tanya in the same room long enough to make them see reason.” Maria added. “At least I hope we can.”


When Tatiana arrived at the house, she told Joe what had happened. “Tatiana, I don’t know what to say.” Joe said, once Tatiana had finished relating the tale. “I certainly didn’t want anything like this to happen. Is there anything I can do to help.”

“I don’t see how.” Tatiana replied. The two of them were sitting on the living room couch, Tatiana sipping a glass of water that Joe had brought for her.

“Well, there must be some way I can help.”

“No. Papa made his feelings clear about me being with you. He clings to a dead past, while I look to the future. Perhaps there is no way to bridge that gap.” She looked deep into Joe’s eyes. “Could you just hold me, Joe. I feel so safe in your arms.”

Joe wrapped his arms around Tatiana, holding her, comforting her. Damn it, I didn’t want our being together to cause a rift between Tatiana and her father. There must be a way to fix this. There must! he thought.


The Red Giant Bar was one of the more popular hangouts of New Moscow. Inside, humans and aliens mingled, ordering drinks, and playing many of the games that could be found in the bar. All this was oblivious to Nicholas as he sat at the bar and downed his fifth glass of vodka. Just a few more, and maybe I’ll stop these feelings. Nicholas drunkenly thought as he asked for yet another vodka.

“Sir, are you okay?” Sam Boyd, the bartender, asked.

“Me? I’m fine.” Nicholas replied drunkenly. “I’m just getting ready to offer a toast: To Nicholas II, the worst Tsar to ever walk the face of the Earth! I should know, I’m him.” He downed the vodka. “Another, my good man.” He pushed the empty glass towards Sam.

Oh boy, I better call Sarah. Sam thought as he took Nicholas’s glass and refilled it. This was not the first time someone from the past had found his or her way to the bar to drown their sorrows. I just hope this poor fellow doesn’t cause a scene, like that judge from ancient New York did. What was his name again? Oh, yeah, Crater! Quickly, Sam moved a way to make the call.


A short time later, Sarah arrived at the Imperial Family’s quarters with a drunken Nicholas being supported by two young men from the bar. “Hello Alix! *hic*” Nicholas said, when he saw his wife.

“My God, Nicky, are you drunk!?” Alexandra asked. Olga and the others had just gotten her to stop crying, and now this happens.

“I sure *hic* am!”

“Just... Just put him in there.” Alexandra said as she gestured to her and Nicholas’s bedroom. The two men led the former Tsar into the bedroom, Alexandra following behind.

“What happened?” Sarah asked.

“Well, this...” Olga said and went on to explain Tatiana’s announcement about her moving in with Joe and the subsequent fight with her father.

“Oh my, this sounds bad.” Sarah said, once Olga had finished.

“It is.” Maria said. “But we hope we can get the two of them to reconcile.”

“I guess your father is not adjusting as well to this time as we thought he was.”

“We were just talking about the same thing.” Anastasia replied. “About the rules and protocols that we used to observe in our time. Tanya would never have been able to just move in with a man, like she has with Joe, back then.”

“Yeah, Joe would not have been considered suitable for a Grand Duchess to marry.” Maria added. “Stupid rules. I’m glad we’re free of them now.”

“Me too.” Anastasia said. “I don’t like what’s happened between Tanya and Papa, but I am happy for her that she’s found someone she loves. I’m sure Papa will come around in time as well.”

“Well, there are counselors available to help with the transition to this time.” Sarah suggested. “You all seemed to be doing so well, I didn’t mention it before. However, if you do need their services now, I can contact one of them.”

“No, Sarah, we’ll manage.” Olga said. “Once Papa sobers up, we’ll talk to him. Then we’ll talk to Tanya. I’m sure we can get them to apologize to each other.”

“Okay, but I’ll leave you the comm frequency of one of the counselors, just in case.”

“Thanks, Sarah.” Olga said.
“Would you like me to talk to Joe?” Sarah asked. “He’s a friend of mine, maybe I can get him to help as ell.”

“Sure, we can use all the help we can get.” Olga replied.


In the bedroom, the two men had deposited Nicholas on the bed and departed. Alexandra stood there, wondering what to do next, when Nicholas suddenly stood up. “And just where do you think you’re going?” Alexandra asked her inebriated husband.

“I want another drink! *hic*” Nicholas replied.

“I think you’ve had quite enough, Nicky.”

“I’m the bloody *hic* Tsar, and I’ll decide when I’ve had....” Nicholas’s eyes then glazed over and he promptly passed out, falling back onto the bed.

“Yes, you’ve had enough.” Alexandra said, shaking her head.


Although exhausted from the days events, Tatiana found sleep elusive. She tossed and turned for hours, before deciding to get up. Softly, she slipped out of bed, careful not to disturb Joe, who had been laying beside her, or Ortino, who was sleeping at the foot of the bed. She had just put on a robe and slippers, when she heard Joe’s voice: “Can’t sleep?”

“No, I can’t.” Tatiana replied. “I’m going for a walk outside.”

“Do you want me to come with you?”

“No, I’d like to be alone for a while, Joe. I need time to clear my head. I’ll be back in about half-an-hour or so.” With that, Tatiana headed out the door.

Poor Tatiana. Joe thought, hating that the girl he loved was in such emotional turmoil. I gotta do something about this. He got up and headed for the screen on his desk. He was about to open a comm channel, when the screen beeped. Joe pressed a button and the image of Sarah appeared on the screen. “Sarah, small world. I was just about to call you.”

“Hello Joe, I guess you’ve been brought up to speed on what happened between Tatiana and her father.” Sarah said.

“Yeah, I have. What a mess.”

“Is Tatiana there right now?”

“No, she went out for a walk.” Joe replied.

“Good, we can talk freely.” Sarah said. “Now listen...”


The night wind was cool on Tatiana’s face as she
walked along the Dnieper, lost in thought. Should I have anticipated Papa’s reaction? Should I have waited before telling him? Will he and I ever be able to speak again? With a sigh, Tatiana sat down on the ground, took off her slippers, and dipped her feet into the Dnieper. The water felt cool and pleasant on her feet, and for a short time, Tatiana was able to put her troubled thoughts aside


Mama seems better this morning. Olga thought as she, Maria, Anastasia, and Alexei sat down to breakfast the next morning. “How are you feeling, Mama?” Olga asked.

“A little better.” Alexandra replied. “However, there is much to do if we are to put this family back together again.”

“I know.” Olga said. “Yesterday we all went a little crazy and said unfortunate things.” She mentioned the incident in the bedroom with Maria and Alexei. “For a second I thought Maria was going to hit him!”

Alexandra was taken aback by that. Although the girls had often rough housed among themselves, such treatment of Alexei had been taboo, due to his illness.

“Well, he is cured, isn’t he. Of the hemophilia that is.” Maria jokingly muttered. That seemed to defuse the tense situation and everyone laughed. Maria turned to her brother. “No hard feelings?”

“None.” Alexei replied, smiling.

“Anyway, Sarah and Joe are working on something to help us.” Olga said.

“That’s good to know.” Alexandra replied.

At that point, the door to Nicholas and Alexandra’s room opened and Nicholas stumbled out, his hands holding his pounding head. He had just woken up and felt like someone had been using his head for a drum. “Ohhhhhhhh...” he moaned.

“Hey, Papa’s up!” Anastasia said.

“Anastasia, please don’t shout like that.” Nicholas groaned.

“I wasn’t shouting.”

“Your father had a little too much fun last night, and now he’s paying the bill.” Alexandra said. “Of course, I can’t really blame him, considering what happened.”

“What’s going on?” Nicholas asked as he lowered himself into his chair at the end of the table, moaning and groaning all the way down.

“Here, Sarah left these.” Alexandra said and produced a vial of pills. “She said taking one will cure your hangover.”

“Really?” Nicholas asked as he took the vial and examined it. “Well, what have I got to lose?” He opened the vial and took one of the pills. Sure enough, his head began to clear up and his stomach stopped its constant heaving. “Hey, it worked!”

“Good, now we can talk about what happened yesterday morning with Tatiana.”

“Oh God, don’t remind me.” Nicholas said. “If I could take back every word I said, I would. It’s just that when she said she wanted to live with him, and then admitted that she shared his bed, without being married. Things like that just weren’t done in our time.”

“No, Nicky, they weren’t.” Alexandra replied. “However, we’re not in that time anymore. This is our time now. Hard as it will be, we must forget the old ways.”

“Easier said than done.”

“We’re managing, Papa.” Olga said and indicated her siblings.

“Yes, but you’re all young.” Nicholas said. “It’s easier for you. Maybe I’m just too old.”

“Nonsense, you just stubborn.” Alexandra said and then turned to the children. “Can you excuse your father and myself for a few moments?”

“Sure, I’m sure we can find something to watch on the screen in our bedroom.” Maria said. She and her siblings excused themselves and headed off, leaving Nicholas and Alexandra alone at the table.

“Maybe I am stubborn.” Nicholas said slowly.

“Yes, you are, but I also know that you’re a loving father as well.” Alexandra said softly.

“I swear to God, Alix, I didn’t mean what I said to Tatiana yesterday, not a word of it. I was just so angry and hurt, I lost control.”

“I know you didn’t mean it, dear, and Tanya will know it too, with time.”

“I hope so, I can’t bear the thought of her hating me.” Nicholas replied.

“She doesn’t hate you, Nicky, right now she’s just angry with you. However, it will pass.”

“I suppose you’re right, you two were always close.” He paused and looked at his wife. “I’m surprised you let her go so easily, Alix.”

“Oh, it wasn’t easy.” Alexandra replied. “Yet sometimes the only way to keep someone in your life is to not stand in their way. I couldn’t refuse Tanya when I saw how in love she was. I understand that all to well, as should you.”

“I suppose I should.” Nicholas said. He remembered how his mother, the Dowager Empress, had completely opposed his plan to marry Alexandra, then known as Alix Of Hesse. The Dowager Empress had cited various reasons, Alix was a foreigner, she carried a genetic blood disease, and a few others. However, in the end, Nicholas had followed his heart and married Alix. His mother had accepted it, but she and Alix had never been close. History repeats itself, only I played the role my mother played. Nicholas thought to himself. As Alix said, this is a whole new world, if I am ever going to reconcile with Tanya, I’m going to have to start realizing that, no matter how difficult it might be.

[Tim]

To take her mind off the rift with her father, Tatiana had thrown herself into work. She had joined the archeological team at the Kiev Dig Site, using her knowledge of the city to point out various landmarks and buildings that had existed in her time. “You’re good, Tatiana.” Gary said. “It’s almost like you’ve been to this city when it was still standing.”

“Well, you do know that they can bring people from the past to this time, don’t you.” Tatiana replied.

“Yeah, I heard of that.” Gary said. “You mean you’re one of them, from the past, that is?”

“Yes, I am. I spent some time in this city in the early twentieth century.”

“Hey, that’s great.” Gary said. “What did you do here? I mean what was your occupation?”

Tatiana just laughed. Clearly, Gary still had no idea who she was, and she was in no hurry to tell him.

“So, what’s going on here?” Joe said as he arrived on the scene and wrapped his arms around Tatiana. “You making a move for my girlfriend, Gary?” He asked jokingly.

“Nah, Tatiana just told me she’s from the past.” Gary replied. “I was just asking what she did back then.”

Geez, he still doesn’t get it. How dense is he? Joe thought.

“So, did you tell your family about me yet?” Tatiana asked.

“Yeah, my parents and brother were thrilled when I mentioned I’d found a girlfriend. They want to come here from New Boston to meet you.”

“I’d like that.” Tatiana said, smiling.


A few moments later, the two of them had found a quiet place to sit and talk, the shade of a large tree, near the dig site. Joe was lying on the ground, on his back, Tatiana was snuggled against him, her head on his chest. “Tell me more about your family, Joe.” Tatiana said.

“Well, my parents are named Alan and Judith, and my younger brother is named Donald. As I said, they live in New Boston. I lived there too, until I decided to come here to pursue archeology. They’ve been worried for ages that my work had ruined my social life.”

“But if you hadn’t come here to pursue archeology, we never would have met.”

“That’s true, Tatiana.” Joe replied. “That is what I told them. Funny how life sometimes turns out.”

“When would they like to come here, Joe.”

“We haven’t pinned that down yet.” Joe replied. “Now that we’ve discussed my family, how about we discuss yours.”

“Must we?” Tatiana sighed.

“Tatiana, I’m not going to try and persuade you to approach your father, you must make that choice yourself. However, I get the feeling that your father regrets what he said.”

“Perhaps he does, but I don’t think I’m ready to forgive him yet.” Tatiana replied. “He really hurt me with his words. What kind of father would say such a terrible thing to his own child. His problem is that he still thinks it’s the nineteenth century.”

“Well, Tatiana, in all fairness to him, he grew up in that era. It’s probably hard for him to just drop a lifetime of observing protocols and rules. I can’t pretend to understand how things worked back then, I’ve only read about it.”

“I can tell you.” Tatiana said as she turned her head and looked into his eyes. “Back then I would have been expected to be a good little Grand Duchess, always following the rules. I would have been expected to marry the first man my father deemed suitable, no matter whether I truly loved him or not. It was all about continuing the dynasty, and personal feelings most of the time took second place. The Imperial System was flawed from the beginning and I’m glad to see it tossed into the gutter of history. May it rot there forever.”

“So your father would have tried to find a suitor for you?”

“Yes, that’s it.” Tatiana said. “He probably planned to start when I reached adulthood, however, the war had started by then and Papa was too busy to worry about suitors by then. Then came the revolution, and, after that, our arrival in this time. However, Papa has not yet made that adjustment. He sought to assert his control like if we were still living a thousand years ago. If I had done what Papa had wanted me to do, that would mean I’d have to stop seeing you, Joe, and I can’t do that. I’d rather die. I was faced with a choice, true love, or protocols and rules that have been dead for a thousand years. I chose true love, Joe, I chose you. My heart belongs to you. Either my father learns to accept that, or there is no place for him in my life anymore.”

Before Joe could reply, Gary arrived on the scene. “Gary, what is it?” Joe asked.

“Three young women just showed up looking for Tatiana.” Gary replied. “They said they were her sisters. They said they wanted to talk to her. They’re waiting at the dig site.”

“I’ll go.” Tatiana said as she got to her feet. “It will be nice to see them.” One thing that Tatiana did miss, since moving in with Joe, was the time spent with her sisters. For most of her life, they were together most of the time, collectively known as OTMA (the first initial of their names). Now that too had changed. So much has changed. Tatiana thought as she headed off to talk to her sisters.

“These young women, Gary, did they give you their names?” Joe asked.

“Yeah, they said their names were Olga, Maria, and Anastasia.” Gary replied. “I suppose they’re from the past too.”

“They are.”

“Well, Joe, were they famous back then, or something like that?”

“You don’t see it, Gary, you honestly don’t see it!?”

“Don’t see what?”

Joe just rolled his eyes.


At the dig site, Anastasia noticed Maria ogling a lot of the young me and couldn’t help but comment. “What are you looking at?”

“Just picking out my future husband.” Maria replied. “You had to admit, Nastya, a lot of these men are good looking.”

“Hmmm, you’re right.” Anastasia said. “Maybe when we get things sorted out between Papa and Tanya, she and Joe can introduce us around.”

“Sounds like fun!”

Standing there listening to her two little sisters banter, Olga suddenly felt a profound sense of loneliness overcome her. For years the four sisters had been called the Big Pair (Olga and Tatiana) and the Little Pair (Maria and Anastasia). Maria and Anastasia still saw each other every day, and were pretty much going on as they always had. However, now that Tatiana had moved out, Olga no longer had someone to discuss their common interests. She just sat on her bed and read, while Maria and Anastasia watched videos on the screen (by now they had progressed to the 1980's, and had been watching someone called Boy George, Olga had seen some of the video and commented that if anyone had dressed the way Boy George did in Imperial Russia, he would have been packed off to an insane asylum) She realized how much she was missing Tatiana, even thought Tatiana had been gone a short time. Not that I would deny Tanya her happiness, but part of me wishes she had decided to stay with us. Am I being selfish for thinking these thoughts? she wondered.

“Tanya’s here!” Anastasia said as she saw her older sister arrive.

“Tanya!” Olga said as she ran over and gave Tatiana a huge hug. “I’ve really missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too, Olga.” Tatiana replied. “As well as both of you.” she said as she smiled to the Little Pair. “Come on, I know where we can talk.” Tatiana led her sisters away from the dig site and soon they were standing on a small beach on the Dnieper.

“It’s good to see you, Tanya.” Olga said. “Joe’s friend told us that you’re helping out at the dig.”

“I am. Since I’ve been to Kiev, I thought my knowledge would come in handy. Besides, it gives me more time to spend with Joe.”

“Can you introduce me to any of his cute friends?” Maria asked.

“Maria!” Olga said. “Can you forget your libido for at least five minutes?”

“What? Tanya’s the only one of us allowed to have a boyfriend?”

“I’ll see what I can arrange.” Tatiana said. “So, how are things at..uh, home?”

“As well as can be expected.” Olga said. “Mama’s trying to put on a brave face, but she cries at night. I’ve heard her.”

“Oh no.” Tatiana said. “I wish there was some way I could help her. Mama means so much to me.”

“There is, you can talk to Papa.”

“I have nothing to say to him!” Tatiana replied, her voice going instantly hard.

“Tanya, please, he really feels bad about the things he said to you.” Olga said. “Yesterday, after you left, he went to some bar and got drunk.”

“What!? You’re joking!” Tatiana said, not even being able to imagine her father doing something like that.

“It’s true, Tanya.” Maria said. “Sarah had to bring him home. He had a bad hangover today, but Sarah left some pills that cured it.”

“He really wants to apologize to you, Tanya.” Anastasia added. “Can you at least hear him out.”

“If you don’t want to do it for his sake, then do it for Mama’s.” Olga said. “This is really tearing her apart too.”

Tatiana looked at her three sisters for a few moments, before reaching a decision. “All right, I’ll talk to Papa. Let me just go and tell Joe first, then I’ll be right back.”

I hope she and Papa can work this out. Olga thought. Too many things have already changed, but this is one change we can do without.


Joe and Gary were still by the large tree, when Tatiana returned and told Joe of her decision. “I’m going to talk to my father, or at least try to.”

“That’s great.” Joe said, smiling. “I’m sure you two will work it out.”

“Wish me luck.”

“I’ll do more, I’ll give you a kiss for good luck.” He promptly took Tatiana in his arms and gave her a deep, passionate kiss.

“Geez, get a room!” Gary muttered as he watched the kiss.

“Wow, Joe, kiss me like that again, and I may not want to go.” Tatiana said, smiling. “See you later.” She headed off to rejoin her sisters.

“I got it! Tatiana and her sisters were famous actresses.” Gary said.

“Oh, Gary, Gary, Gary.” Joe said, shaking his head. “In New Moscow, they offer courses in Russian history. Sign up!”

“What for?”

Joe just chose to walk away at this point.

“Was it something I said?” Gary asked, scratching his head.


The four Romanov sisters were soon in the null-gravity car, flying back to New Moscow. Olga and Tatiana were in the front seat, while Maria and Anastasia were in the back. “Good thing we got out of there.” Olga said. “Maria’s libido was working so fast, I thought she’d explode.”

“Hey, those guys were cute.” Maria protested.

“Well, they may not like going out with an older woman.” Olga said, exchanging glances with Tatiana.

“Older!? I’m only nineteen!” Maria said.

“Technically speaking, you’re nine hundred and ninety-four.”

“But you don’t look a day over six hundred.” Tatiana added.

Maria stuck her tongue out at the Big Pair. “Bleh!”

Olga and Tatiana burst into laughter. This is one of the things I miss. Olga thought. The fun she and Tatiana had teasing their younger sisters often made up for a dull afternoon. It was nice to get back into the old routine, even if it was only temporary.


“Tanya! Oh my Tanya!” Alexandra said with tears of joy in her eyes. She wrapped her arms around Tatiana.

“Oh, Mama, I’ve missed you.” Tatiana replied, her eyes suddenly wet with tears. The girls had arrived back in the Romanov’s quarters only moments before. “How have you been?”

“It was hard, Tanya.” Alexandra replied. “Seeing what happened between you and your father. Please try to forgive him, Tanya. Please.”

Almost on cue, Nicholas appeared in the doorway to his and Alexandra’s bedroom. Alexei at his side. Clearly, the boy had been keeping his father company during the wait for the girls to return.

“Mama, there’s this great video you gotta see.” Anastasia announced. “You can see it on the screen of our room.”

“Yeah, I think you’ll like it.” Maria added.

“If not, I have some disks you can read.” Olga said.

“All right, I’m coming.” Alexandra replied. She knew that they were just making excuses to get her out of the room, so Tatiana and Nicholas could be alone. Hoping for the best, Alexandra followed her other three daughters and son into the Grand Duchesses’s room.

“Hello, Papa, if I can still call you that.” Tatiana said, once she and Nicholas were alone.

“Of course you can.” Nicholas replied. “Why wouldn’t you.”

“Well, you did disown me, remember?”

“Tanya, you have to know I didn’t mean it. The moment I said those words, I regretted it.” Nicholas said. “You just caught me off guard, announcing that you wanted to live with Joe, without marrying him first. Things like that just weren’t done in our time.”

“This is our time now, Papa.” Tatiana replied.

“So people keep telling me. Yet it’s hard for me to adjust, to just drop a lifetime of habits. I....”

“Papa, please don’t ask me to give up Joe. After Dimitri I never thought I’d find true love again. Who knew I’d have to travel ten centuries to find it.”

“No, Tanya, I’d never ask that of you.” Nicholas said. “I was wrong to react the way I did. As I said, the old ways were still inside me, and my stupid adherence to them made me act the way I did. Just don’t hate me, Tanya. I couldn’t bear the thought of you hating me.”

“I... I....don’t hate you, Papa, I never did.” Tatiana said, tears now spilling down her face. “I was just so angry with you. You hurt my feelings, but I could never hate you.”

“So, am I forgiven?” Nicholas asked slowly.

“Of course, Papa.” Tatiana said. The two of them embraced, both crying now. However, these were not tears of sorrow, but rather tears of joy, of a father and daughter healing.

“Do you truly love him?” Nicholas asked, after a few moments.

“Yes, Papa, I love Joe, with all my heart.” Tatiana replied. “He’s made me so happy.”

“Then I give you two my blessing, regardless if you choose to marry or not.”

“Welcome to the twenty-ninth century, Papa.” Tatiana said as the two of them continued to embrace.

“Hey, can we come out now and join in the hug?” Anastasia asked from the doorway to the girls room. By the tears in her eyes, it was clear that she had been listening in.

“Of course, come here, Imp!” Tatiana said.

Anastasia, Maria, Olga, Alexandra, and Alexei poured out of the room and quickly joined in the hug. A family once again at peace with itself.


Later the family all sat down to dinner, to celebrate the reconciliation between Tatiana and Nicholas. At one point, Nicholas stood up and cleared his throat, clearly he wanted to say something. Everyone fell silent and Nicholas began to speak. “The last time we all sat at this table, words were exchanged, words that almost tore this family apart. I regret to say that most of those words came from me. As most of you have pointed out, I was still living old Imperial rules and protocols, a thousand years after they had ceased to have any meaning. Because of my stubbornness, I almost lost one of my daughters. I want to promise you all that I will never make that mistake again. As others here have repeatedly told me, this is our time now, and we should leave the past in the past. Therefore, I think all of us here should do what Tanya has already done, and cast aside our old titles. They mean nothing here. From this day forward, I am Nicholas Romanov, Citizen of Earth!”

Alexandra stood up: “I am Alexandra Feodorovna, Citizen of Earth!”

“I am Olga Nikolaevna Romanov, Citizen of Earth!” Olga announced

“I am Maria Nikolaevna Romanov, Citizen of Earth!” Maria declared.

“I am Anastasia Nikolaevna Romanov, Citizen of Earth!” Anastasia said, adding her voice to the others.

“I am Alexei Nicholaievich, Citizen of Earth!” Alexei
said.

Tatiana smiled as her family now joined her in leaving behind the old ways. She had a feeling that from this point forward, everything would be okay.


Back at Joe’s house, Joe and Gary were finishing dinner and waiting for Tatiana to come back. “Hey, thanks for inviting me over.” Gary said.

“No problem. I always welcome company.” Joe replied Although your knowledge of Russian history leaves a lot to be desired. he thought.

“I was just wondering, is Tatiana’s older sister available?” Gary asked.

“Olga?”

“Yeah, her.” Gary said. “She’s pretty hot. I was thinking of asking her out. I mean, I hope Tatiana would be okay
with it.”

“I don’t think Olga is your type, Gary.” Joe said.

“Why not? Okay, so she was this big actress a thousand years ago. I can prepare.” Gary got up and headed for the door.

“Where are you going?”

“I’m gonna go home and access the World Archives.” Gary replied. “I’m going to find some of the movies Olga starred in and watch them. Surely it will help me make a good impression. Wish me luck!” With that, Gary headed out the door.

“Good luck!” Joe called after his friend. Because you’re gonna need it if you plan to make a play for Olga. Boy, I’d love to be a fly on the wall when THAT happens! Joe thought, grinning to himself. He got up and began to clear away the table. He was about half-way through, when Tatiana came in the door. “How did it go?” Joe asked.

Rather than reply, Tatiana ran over and jumped into his arms. Clearly, she was very happy.

“I take it that things went well.” Joe said.

“Better than that, my darling. Papa has given us his blessing.” Tatiana replied.

“I’m glad.” Joe replied as he continued to hold Tatiana. “I really didn’t like being the cause of a rift between you and your father.”

“You weren’t, Joe, it was his clinging to the old ways. But that doesn’t matter anymore.”

“I guess not. So, Tatiana, how do you want to celebrate this good news?”

“I don’t know. Do you have any ideas, Joe?” she asked.

“I have one.” Joe said as he swept her up in his arms and carried her towards the bed.

“I think I’m going to like this one.” Tatiana giggled.


Several hours later, Tatiana woke and softly looked around. The night was quiet, the Moon was visible through a nearby window, she felt Joe’s warm body pressed up against hers. She sighed blissfully as she recalled how she and Joe had made love three times before falling into an exhausted sleep. Lovers out of time. she thought to herself. Isn’t that a poem of some kind? I’m not sure. However, it sure describes what Joe and I have now. Smiling at the thought, Tatiana drifted back to sleep.


The next morning, before he left for the dig site, Joe got a call from his parents, Alan and Judith Hawkins. “Mom, Dad, how are you?” he asked.

“We’re fine, son.” Alan replied.

“We were just checking to see if we could come to Russia and meet this new girlfriend of yours.” Judith added. “You said some wonderful things about her. She sounds like she’s one of a kind.”

More than you know, Mom. Joe thought. “Sure, I’d love for you two to meet Tatiana.”

“Right, how does this weekend sound?” Alan asked.

“That’s fine, Dad. I’ll tell Tatiana that you two are coming.”

“Okay, Joe, until this weekend then.” Alan and Judith said, before signing off.

Well, I’ve met Tatiana’s family, now she’s going to meet mine. Joe thought. This weekend should prove interesting to say the least.

“Who was that, Joe?” Tatiana asked as she came up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist.

“My parents.” Joe replied. “They’d like to come here and meet you this weekend. If you don’t mind, that is.” Joe said.

“Why would I mind?” Tatiana said. “I’d love to meet your family. Is your brother coming too?”

“They didn’t say.” Joe said. “However, it’s possible. He usually comes along on trips like that.”

“Well, we better prepare for there arrival.” Tatiana said. “I want to make a good impression with them.”

“Don’t worry about that, Tatiana.” Joe said. “I think they’re going to like you.”


Around that same time, in New Moscow, Olga, Maria, and Anastasia were out checking out the stores of the twenty-ninth century. “They have funny clothes here.” Anastasia said, giggling.

“Funny to us, but I guess it’s normal to these people.” Maria replied.

“Well, maybe we should go try some on.” Anastasia said and pointed to nearby clothing store. “How about you, Olga?”

“You two go ahead.” Olga said. “I’m just going to sit over there and get some sun.” Maria and Anastasia needed no further coaxing and the two of them took off into the store. Look at them having fun together. Olga thought as she sat down on a nearby bench. I wish Tanya were here, but I’m going to have to get used to the fact that she’s not going to be around all the time anymore. Olga’s thoughts were interrupted by someone clearing his throat. She looked up and saw a young man standing there. “I know you, you’re Joe’s friend.”

“That’s right, I’m Gary Mitchell.” Gary replied and plunked himself down on the bench next to Olga.

“Is there something I can help you with?” Olga asked. “Is everything all right with Tatiana and Joe?”

“Oh, they’re fine. It’s you I wanted to see.”

“Me?”

“Yeah, the truth is, Olga, may I call you Olga?”

“You can.” Olga said.

“Well, the truth is, I think you’re rather cute.” Gary said.

“Really?” Olga said and folded her arms. She knew a pick-up when she saw one, but decided just to go along and see where this led. “You think I’m cute.”

“Yeah, I do. I mean Joe was so lucky to score with your sister, but I think you’re the better looking one.”

“Do you now?”

“Yeah, I do. I really would like to go out with you, Olga. I think I can show you a pretty good time.”

Is he serious? Olga thought to herself.

“Yeah, but I’ve had troubles finding your movies. I checked all the movies of your time, but I didn’t see you in any. Unless, of course, you were one of those actresses.”

“I’m sorry, but I’m not following you.” Olga said. She had no idea what the man was talking about.

“You know, one of THOSE actresses.” Gary repeated. “Girl on girl, naughty teacher? That sort of thing.”

“I’m sorry, what!?”

“Well, this.” Gary said and whispered something into Olga’s ear.

“How dare you!?” Olga exclaimed and slapped Gary across the face so hard that he fell off the bench. Outraged, she stalked away.

“Should I take this as a no?” Gary called after her.


“You thought she was porn star!?” Joe said, once Gary had returned to the dig site and told him what had happened.

“Hey, I looked for her movies, but couldn’t find any of them, at least any mainstream movies.” Gary protested.

“That’s because she’s not an actress, you moron, she’s a Grand Duchess, or she used to be!”

“What?”

“A Grand Duchess. As in the daughter of a Tsar!” Joe said. “Tatiana, Olga, and the rest of the family were the last of the Romanov’s to rule Russia a thousand years ago. They were brought here just before they were executed.”

“So that’s why they looked so familiar.” Gary said.

At that point, Tatiana arrived on the scene and slapped Gary across the face. “I just got a call from Olga. She told me what you said to her!”

“Uh, yeah, I gotta go.” Gary said and slunk away.

“Don’t mind him, Tatiana, my friend is severely lacking in the intelligence department. So, are you looking forward to seeing my parents this weekend?”

“Yes, I am. I hope they like me.” Tatiana said.

“I’m sure they will.” Joe said and lovingly embraced her.


That weekend, Joe’s parents did arrive. “Hello son.” Alan Hawkins said as he and Judith came into the house. “It’s good to see you. Did Donald come too?”

“No, not this time.” Judith said. “Apparently, you’re not the only one who’s found a girlfriend. He stayed with her.”

“Well, I’m happy for him.” Joe said. “So, do you want to meet Tatiana now?”

“Sure son, we’d love to.” Alan said.

“Be right back.” Joe said and left the room. Soon, he was back with Tatiana. “Dad, Mom, this is Tatiana Romanov.”

“Pleased to meet you both.” Tatiana said.

There was a silence for a while as Alan and Judith studied Tatiana.

Oh no, what if they don’t like me! Tatiana thought with despair.

Finally, Judith broke the silence. “Welcome, Tatiana. We’re pleased to meet you.”

“You’ve made our son very happy.” Alan added. “We’re happy that he’s found someone he truly loves.”

“Thank you both.” Tatiana replied as Alan and Judith enveloped her in a warm embrace. All doubts were gone, and it was clear that Tatiana had been welcomed into Joe’s family circle.

Epilogue: Two Months Later

“I wonder what Tanya wants to tell us.” Nicholas said as he, Alexandra, Olga, Maria, Anastasia, and Alexei sat around the table in the Romanov’s quarters.

“I don’t know, but it sounded important.” Alexandra replied.

“I hope things are okay with her and Joe.” Maria said. “They seem so happy together.”

“We are.” Tatiana said as she entered the quarters.

Olga, Maria, and Anastasia got up to greet their sister. “It’s good to see you, Tanya.” Olga said. “What is this message you have for us?”

“How do you three feel about being aunts?”

“Aunts?” Anastasia said. “That’s a silly question. We’re not aunts.”

“No, you’re not. Not yet at least.” Tatiana said and patted her stomach.

“Oh my God, Tanya, you’re pregnant!” Olga said with delight.

“I’m going to be an aunt!” Maria added.

“Me too!” Anastasia squealed. “Yay!”

“What’s going on over here?” Nicholas asked as he and Alexandra came over to see what all the excitement was about.

“You’re going to be grandparents.” Tatiana said proudly.

“Grandparents?” Alexandra said, her eyes going wide. “You mean...”

“Yes, Joe and I are expecting our first child.” Tatiana said proudly. “If it’s a girl, we’d like to call her Elizabeth, in honour of Aunt Elizabeth.”

Alexandra was touched that Tatiana had chosen the name of her sister, Elizabeth, who, sadly, had not survived the revolution. “I would be happy with that name.”

“If it’s a boy, we’d like to call him Alexander, after your father and grandfather, Papa.” Tatiana said to Nicholas.

“I.... I....” Nicholas stuttered. He was still absorbing the news that he was to be a grandfather. Just a few of months ago, the future seemed grim for all of them, but now they had a second chance, in this new bright future. “I would be honoured.” he said slowly.

“Thank you, Mama, Papa. You’ve made me very happy.” Tatiana said.

“Oh I can’t wait.” Anastasia said. “I’m going to teach that child to be an Imp, just like me!”

“If it’s girl, maybe she’ll be like me.” Maria added. “Boys will be lining up to see her!”

“Uh, aren’t you two being a bit premature.” Olga said, rolling her eyes.

“It’s never too early to prepare.” Anastasia said, smiling.

“We can worry about all that later.” Nicholas said. “Come, we have much to celebrate!”


So the Romanov Family sat down and celebrating the upcoming arrival of the new child in this wonderful world they now called home. This clearly marked the final transition for all of them. The past was dead, the future lay ahead, full of wonder and possibilities.

THE END

[ladyfiaran22]

This is the story that brought me here from the Alexander Palace forum, I love OTMA stories where the family escaped and lived like normal people. I first heard about Anastasia from watching Unsolved Mysteries as a kid and they had a reenactment of their execution and it terrified me. Since then I wanted to write a story about them escaping.

[Tim]

Yeah, I wrote this story eight years ago now. 

Glad you liked it, Vanessa, and I look forward to seeing yours here someday.

[Deleted]

aaahhaahahahahahha this is the first Romanov story I fell in love with, probably the one I have loved the most, thank you Tim! I also read it on the Alexander Palace Time Machine! It is so sad what happened to them in real life and I am sadly not religious like them so stories is how I cope :´(

I always hoped you would continue it! Like make Anastasia and Alexei explore the Galaxy together when they are older! And let Maria get her 20 children! And let the other girls find love as well. Maybe Olga could become a Singer or a composer? Anastasia an actress? Tatiana obviously a doctor like in your other story. I think Maria has more of a stay at home mom vibe, but she could also do lots of things like painting from home, or become a teacher of kindergarden caretaker, she always loved children! It really has a hopeful end but I wanted more! But I don´t want to be an annoying fangirl who asks fic writers to continue stories lol but please let me gush and gush with me about your own story if you have time please lol.

I loved how the grand duchesses reacted to the world, and how Alexei is now playing, is it football? I think any sport fits him, really, wouldnt a world as technologically advanced also have quiddish (from Harry potter)? lol I dont think there is war anymore in your world but Al would probably want to do something dangerous like be an explorer of uncharted worlds or something, Alexandra would obviously be so worried everyday. I would like to see them react to all of human history, both real, and what happened in the future in your story, especially Nicholas and Alexandra. And how would Anastasia and Alexei react to high school?

Anyways, I just wanted to say how important your story was for me, it inspired me to write my own, it also kinda helped me get over the post "finding out Anastasia didnt survive in real life" depression when I was a teenager that I guess all people who get into the romanovs get the first time they start researching.

I am not familiar with your other fandoms but from this story alone I can tell you are a Good writer, keep going!

[Tim]

Glad you liked the story, Gabriela.  It's been ten years now since I wrote it.

Please go to our Introduce Yourself thread and tell us a bit about yourself.