Chapter 3

1946 - 1949

The early warnings

America was punching himself, or rather, his new boss.

"How could he tell Stalin about our nuclear weapons?!"

Even thought the war had ended and the a-bombs had long since been dropped, Alfred was still wondering how Russia had gotten the plans to build the powerful weapon. He was always a little skeptical of the giant nation, and now he had reason. If, no, when Russia developed his own bombs, it would spell disaster for the entire world. Alfred could just taste the bitterness of what was to come on the tip of his tongue.

Over the next year or so, the Allies focus on rebuilding war torn Europe. China is too busy with a civil war between the communists and nationalist to help, though. Russia is unusually quiet for the first half of 1946. America is worried by this, unsure of what the Soviets are planning. However, he is too busy dealing with the Philippines and their desire for independence and the thousands of other tasks he has taken since the war ended. Alfred feels himself being taken over by his work load, but at least it gets his mind off of the future.

Early on in the year, England's boss warned that an 'iron curtain' was descending over Europe. After speaking with his own boss, Alfred figured it pretty much meant Europe was being split in two; ideologically wise, between Russia and himself.

That was not good.

America knew that the nations of Europe were only taking sides to help rebuild themselves, but who in their right mind would prefer Communism to Democracy? Being democratic was obviously the right choice. 'He must be forcing the weaker nations to join him!' Alfred thought to himself. Sure, he may had been a little paranoid, but what other explanation was there?

This communism thing was spreading like the common cold. It needed to stop.

---

The Truman Doctrine.

It stated that the United States will remain committed to 'contain' further Communist expansion.

Damn right he was.

When would Russia be satisfied with spreading his corrupt government around the world?

It would only be a matter of time before Russia would be crazy enough to try to force Alfred to convert. That would be the day.

That would be the day that Alfred would fear.

Alfred was so tired. He was helping everybody, from those still ravished from World War two to countries like Korea and Greece and Turkey fighting their own wars. Sure, he was the hero, but he couldn't possible save the whole world, can he?

Russia already had eight countries under communist rule and China was almost certain to join him. Alfred couldn't understand it.

At least he had some friends who resisted Russia's power. They formed NATO.

---

Alfred was over at Arthur's house. The scars of war had almost been erased, thanks to his help. America held tightly onto his large cup o' joe. He had little sleep lately and felt like he was getting a cold. Arthur had rejected to his coming in his condition, but the young blond was stubborn as usual. The Englishmen knew that Alfred had been so busy caring for other that he had very little time to look over himself. When he found out that his former colony has spent almost thirteen billion dollars to help rebuild Europe, he didn't know whether to cry from joy or his stupidity, especially since some of that money had gone to help him.

"Al, are you sure you don't want some tea? It could nip that cold in the bud before it even surfaces." Arthur had a genuine look of concern on his face.

The American shook his head and took a sip of his coffee. "Nah, I'll let it run its coarse. Besides, it shouldn't be too long before everyone's back on their feet again."

They sat in silence for a while after that. The only sound was the light pitter-patter of the drizzling London rain. It was soothing to Alfred's ears. Soothing, that was something he hadn't felt in a long time.

"Hey England." Arthur was caught off guard by the use of his official name. "What do you think I should do about Russia. I mean, he's spreading communism like butter all over Europe. I feel like I should do something, especially since he had the plans and all, but I just don't know what to do. He's not the type of guy you can have a peaceful discussion with, you know?" A little chuckle finished his sentence.

Arthur leaned back in his chair and sighed. "Yes, I suppose Russia has been getting out of hand lately. Hopefully, once he sees all of the nations that have become a part of NATO, he will cease all of this tomfoolery."

The young blond laughed, Nantucket bobbing up and down with his motions. "You said tomfoolery! Man, you are so British."

He received a glare and a chuckle. "Well I certainly would hope so. I wouldn't want to be confused with you and your lovely southern accent."

"Hey!"

Laughter filled the room as the sound danced with the raindrops against the roof. He needed this, he really did. Alfred had been so caught up in too many serious things that he had no time for laughter; for fun.

Yes, he had certainly changed since the war had ended, but it was good to know that his old self had survived.