The closer they drew, the more clearly the outline of the Abyssal Ruins emerged from the gloom.
The first things to come into view were the tops of several leaning stone pillars, their surfaces covered in coral and seaweed. Yet beneath those colorful marine organisms, traces of human craftsmanship were still visible.
Farther down were more intact structures resembling the walls of buildings. Although sediment covered most of them, their regular edges and distinct layers were still clearly discernible.
But underwater, with the surroundings so dark, they could never make out the whole picture. All they could vaguely see was what appeared to be a four-sided pyramid, with some collapsed houses around it.
It was probably once a temple or something...
The Pokémon did not know what archaeology was. They simply swam around the group, playing while remaining alert to any danger that might appear.
Blastoise swam steadily along the outer perimeter, his composed eyes constantly scanning the surrounding darkness.
Greninja darted nimbly between the ruins' colonnades like a dutiful scout.
Milotic patrolled below them, her slender body tracing graceful arcs through the deep blue water.
Piplup stayed close beside Dawn, glancing around nervously from time to time.
Meloetta, meanwhile, darted merrily through the water, seemingly enjoying herself to the fullest.
With the Pokémon guarding them, Makomo swam closer to the ruins.
Although she had no background in archaeology, she still felt a strong desire to explore and a keen interest in these unexpectedly discovered underwater ruins.
She gestured with her hands, excitement shining in her eyes. Her meaning was clear-she wanted to go inside and take a look.
Just then, Greninja returned from deep within the ruins. He appeared soundlessly before Xia You and made a gesture: it was safe inside.
Xia You nodded, then glanced at the oxygen