[Apple]
When my eyes open again, I am on the floor staring up at a flickering light that swings back and forth, breaking the shadows. Sitting up carefully I reach down to feel my rounded belly and send a wave of love to my child.
She responds with her own gentle trill, expressing her concern and her love for me.
"Don't worry little one," I answer softly with both my words and through our growing link to one another. "Mama is here, I'll get us to safety."
A gargling cough draws my attention to the other side of the room.
That's when I notice the bodies lying strewn across the room. Sucking in my breath the acrid smell of ozone burns my nostrils mixed with the overwhelming aroma of fresh blood?
Slowly standing, I lean against the wall and survey what remains of the operation room.
