1The Living Weapons
President Richards looked from the piece of paper in his hand to the subject of the paper, standing about three feet away from them, to the Commander of G.U.A., who was looking at him with an expression of uttermost pride.
"This is impressive," Richards told him. "Give your scientists a raise. That's an order."
The Commander chuckled, and said,
"You don't have to tell me twice. It's incredible what those guys can come up with when it's really needed."
Richards turned back to the paper.
"It is. Super-hard skin, claws, the power to fly short distances, able to lift an elephant without effort, can outrun a cheetah and live without water for two weeks...I just have one question." Richards looked at the Commander again. "What the heck is an echidna and why are these things based off them?"
If the Echidna in the room was offended by its being called a "thing," it didn't show it. The Commander took a breath and explained,
"Three reasons. First, echidnas are related to hedgehogs and porcupines; their hair is for both heat and defense. Second, they're naturally anteaters, so we don't have to give them food. Third, like platypuses, they lay eggs. That means we don't have to worry about pregnancy leave."
If it was possible, Richards looked more impressed than before.
"Good choice. So, you're mass-producing now?"
"Yes. We should have enough to make a new military division soon."
"Very well. You may go."
The Echidna left the room. As the Commander was about to walk out the door, Richards stopped him.
"Have you thought through any safety measures in case they go rogue?"
The Commander smirked.
"Of course. At birth, we implant micro-bombs into their brains. With the touch of a button, every living Echidna will die."
"Good work, Commander."
"My name is John."