Chapter 144
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After the battle between Superman and Lobo, the dead numbered over 200, and they were still counting. As was usually the case, violence begat more violence. There were hate crimes, people were beaten, even killed, for being suspected aliens. Amongst the various churches, temples, mosques there was theological disagreements over alien rights. Some believed that they were all the children of God, others considered them to be abominations and minions of the devil. Places of worship were targeted by the SBA and like minded individuals. Some churches were targeted for their support of aliens. Other times they would target churches who oppossed alien rights, and blame it on the aliens. Christmas was usually considered a time of peace, when different people put aside their differences and came together. But the holiday season of 2023 did not seem to be a particularly peaceful time. President Odonnell had felt the need to send FBI agents to investigate bombings in Alabama. He knew that many of these agents were unhappy about spending Christmas away from their families. One of these local churches was organizing a Christmas dinner for these agents, families bringing what food they could, knitting sweaters for these agents for the cold. President Odonnell felt that the least he could do was volunteer at this church. He spent Christmas at this church, helping serve these noble agents, taking the time to thank all the volunteers. His presence did seem to lift the spirits of the volunteers and agents, they were grateful that their president was willing to pitch in along with the rest of them. And he wanted there to be no doubt whose side he was on, the side of peace and harmony. It might have been just a gesture, but the president felt it was the best he could do right now.