I began to swim, farther and farther towards the bottom, where many of my pod played and swam. As I approached the underwater city I had to stop and look at it. Such a marvel it was, truthfully. Coral reefs and plants twisted and turned to becomes shelters, golden rings that the asterite created where everywhere, in the land, and in the sea. The water in this area was never too cold, never too hot; and it was always clearer then air. This home seemed like an underwater paradise. I moved forward again, heading into the main area of this marvelous place.

I suddenly was approached by two young dolphins, swimming playfully around. Neither had noticed me however, until one swam directly into me. It yelped and almost swore at me, until it noticed who 'I' was.

"SIR!" the small dolphin squealed. "I am so sorry sir I didn't- I-I mean I wasn't…" it recoiled and braced itself for a lashing. I only looked at it calmly.

"You did not hurt me, I am not angry." I told it in a calm voice. I was not angry, rather happy to see two young ones talking with me.

"I-I thank you sir, I promise it will never happen again!" it stammered.

"Yes sir we're so sorry, we'll just be on our way sir and let you get back to your duties. Sorry again sir!" the other young one squeaked.

"No, really, I do not mind it I-" I started, but it was too late, the two young ones had already bowed and swam off, as fast as they could for fear of a lashing. I drooped sadly.

*sigh* It is not a surprise; young ones always swim from me. All I wished was that maybe… maybe I could join them in their play? Oh do not be foolish Ecco, they would never allow you to. You are the 'mighty' Ecco, you do not have time for such things in their eyes. Even with children you could not belong.

I snorted in the water, causing bubbles to rise. Then I continued forward, heading for the main area. The main area had many buildings that the asterite created for us. The buildings themselves were large plant life, twisted and morphed into buildings with many rooms and corridors. I swam into the largest building. This was the council building, where meetings and such were held. I swam down a hallway until he entered a large room. Inside were a few dolphins, many chattering amongst themselves, but when I entered a hush fell over the group.

Oh by the almighty… I so LOATHE when they do this...

"Ecco… sir. How have you been today sir?" A large black dolphin asked in a squeaky tone.

"The ocean is warm today, I have been feeling fine." I replied with a smirk. I was NOT fine however, but I have gotten used to this little charade, it was simple to me now.

"That's good sir" the dolphin replied with forced enthusiasm. "Would you like a snack sir? Perhaps your favorite red fish?"

Favorite… If I have to eat ONE MORE of those I shall gag…

"No, that is alright, I ate this morning. Now, how are things around the pod?"

"Just fine sir, the pod is strong and healthy, thanks to you of course."

Of coouurrssee… I snarled in my mind. My beak curled ever so slightly in resentment.

"Sir? Are you alright sir?" the black dolphin asked concerned.

"Yes, yes I am fine!" I said quickly. "Has there been any other news?"

"Yes sir… I…" the black dolphin looked almost scared to say his next words.

"Yes? Is there something else?" I asked. He looked at me with fear in his eyes.

"Yes sir… there's been many human sightings as of late, near the northern sector."

"Humans?!" I exclaimed. The group immediately cringed.

"Y-y-es sir, they've been seen in boats on the north ends. So far they haven't done anything but…"

"I see. I will go look into this."

"You will sir? I-I mean yes sir! Excellent choice sir!" the black one said and his eyes lit up. All the other dolphins in the room seemed excited as well. I merely rolled my eyes.

They then went over other news and issues of the day, but my mind was elsewhere.

Humans? Near our home? They have not been stupid enough to come near this place since I drove them away years ago…oh well this is very interesting…

 "Sir? Sir are you alright?"

I snapped out of my daze and looked at the black one.

"Yes, just thinking. I must leave now, if we are finished."

"Oh yes sir we're all done if you are!" he replied as him and others bowed. Sometimes there are advantages to my role…