CHAPTER 227

TEN MILES SOUTH OF SPRINGFIELD MISSOURI

The pain was no dream and he groaned as it lanced up the backs of his legs and across his lower back. His head felt as if someone had used it for a game of polo, and he was unable to move his left arm. His right arm ached at even the slightest twitch and he could barely move his fingers. Even opening his deep blue eyes was an exercise of will power as painful as everything in his body was. His vision was fuzzy, and he dare not shake his head to make sure it would not simply roll off his shoulders. He saw a black form take shape in front of his eyes and he froze.

"Your eyes will adjust Major O'Connell." The female voice spoke. "Blink them a few times to clear your vision, but do not move just yet. My doctor had quite the time repairing your body and she would not be happy to see you ruin her excellent work."