Talking Turtles: Science Fiction

The turtles opened their mouths and spoke to her. "Save us," they said. "Save us. It isn't our fault. We want our children to grow and live. But if they separate us now, we will never have children, for we are the only ones of our kind." she turned and backed against the tank. "They just spoke to me," she said blankly. "They can talk." The two men exchanged looks, and then moved forward with a dangerous intensity in their eyes. "Sorry, honey," one said. "I thought they'd be wiser than to open their traps. They know they just doomed you to death." he reached for her with one hand, but she dodged and sprinted toward the door. There was nowhere to hide inside. Behind her, she heard the buzz of a weapon powering up. She dove and rolled through the door, feeling a scorching blast of heat--

Inspiration: A dream I had.
Story Potential: High.
Notes: Oh, the writing is shit, but I like the idea. Future, sci-fi, gene engineered, as smart or smarter than humans, fear of a competing species--all nice rich ideas.