Two hours later, the Blackhawk helicopter arrived at the Basa Air Base. It landed on the helipad where medics from the base were already waiting.
The door opened and the personnel rushed in to receive them.
"Easy, easy," one of the medics said as they moved straight to Ryan, hands already working to release the restraints holding the stretcher in place. "On my count."
They slid him out in one clean motion, boots hitting the tarmac as they carried him away from the helicopter. Ryan didn't resist, but his eyes stayed open, tracking the surroundings as they moved.
"Vitals?" another medic asked while walking alongside.
"Stable," the first replied. "Multiple contusions, possible internal bruising, but he's conscious."
Ryan let out a slow breath.
"I'm fine," he said.
"No, you're not," the medic answered without looking at him. "You're moving anyway."
They pushed forward.
