Watchbird by Robert Shekley, Science Fiction, Fantasy

The story unfolds in a smoky room filled with watchbird manufacturers, where the protagonist, Gelsen, reflects on his exclusive role in a government-sanctioned project aimed at saving humanity. As he interacts with the other manufacturers, anticipation builds for the arrival of a government representative, signaling a crucial moment for their collective mission. The atmosphere is charged with tension and expectation, highlighting the stakes involved in their work and the unique dynamics of this elite group.