Chapter Five

Jason was wheeled toward the small army helicopter, as he was greeted by the civilian he had seen yesterday at the hospital.

"Good morning, Jason. My name is Dr. Chun. I will be one of the persons responsible for your care."

The doctor stepped behind the wheelchair and assisted the nurse in getting the chair started up the ramp in the back of the helicopter. As they started the ascent, Jason could hear the engine of the chopper barking to life.

The elderly Asian doctor continued to push Jason into the aircraft as the nurse scurried away from the wind generated from the helicopter's blades.

Where are we heading?", Jason yelled over the din of the twin turbo engines.

"Due to the sensitive nature of this project, our facility has been located in a top security area in the Nevada desert. You probably know the location better as Area 51 or 'Dreamland'.", the doctor shouted back.

"Hey, will we get to see any ..." As Jason and the doctor entered the helicopter, the cargo ramp closed behind them, effectively muting the noise the engine was generating. Jason realized that he was screaming at the top of his lungs. His face turned red momentarily, before he continued, "Um, will we see any aliens?"

"Not likely. However, the facility is very secure, and will allow us to work without fear of interruption."

"From who?"

"From anyone who would like to possess the technology, or from anyone who would disagree with us having the technology.", Dr. Chun replied flatly.

That statement slightly soured Jason's good mood. He started to wonder what was so important about this particular project, and what kind of technology the doctor kept referring to. Jason also started to wonder about the implications of any technology that could allow him the ability to walk again. 'Why isn't this out in the general public where it could benefit others who are paralyzed?', he thought to himself. Then the realization of his recent news about being a mutant came back to him. 'That's gotta be it. Whatever it is won't work on normal people.' Jason was momentarily taken aback as he realized how quickly he had started to think of himself apart from 'normal people'. First it started with him being in a wheelchair, and then the double whammy of finding out that he was a mutant. Although his was a mutation that was did not stick out, he knew how the population at large had a deep distrust for anyone carrying the fateful X gene.

"In the meantime, Jason, I would like to administer a sedative to help you relax during the trip. It is imperative that you get some rest to build your strength. You have been through a lot, and we all would like to begin the procedure as soon as possible."

Jason nodded his consent as the doctor removed a small hypodermic from the inside of his coat. He winced slightly as the needle entered his skin. Without warning, everything went black.