"Alright, we're almost done here. Now, all you need to do is register the Pokemon you'll be using in the Contest. As you probably know, you'll need two--one for each round."
Rey hesitated before finally responding to the woman working at the registration desk. "For the first round, I'll be using a Delcatty. And, for the second, Dragonair."
"I see," the woman smiled. "Well, do you have them here with you?"
"Er, they're currently at the Pokemon Center . . . though both Pokemon are fully registered," the coordinator stated, offering his Pokenav.
"Very well, then . . . " The woman plugged the Pokenav into the computer, tapped a few keys, then unplugged the device. "Both your Pokemon have been positively verified. Thank you for registering."
Rey nodded, receiving his Pokenav. Then, as he clipped the electronic to his belt and started for the front door, he suddenly found himself stopped by the young, blue-eyed female he had previously met.
"Hey, before you go, could you at least tell me your name?"
Rey paused before answering shortly, "Rey Storm."
"My name's Aria Kumo. It's been nice meeting you Rey, and good luck in the contest," Aria said cheerfully.
The male nodded before exiting the Contest Center.
---------------------------
Rey lightly pushed open the Pokemon Center door, casting a glance about before starting toward the front desk. As he arrived at the counter, Nurse Joy turned toward him.
"I'm here to--"
"I remember you from earlier," Nurse Joy interrupted with a smile. "Your Pokemon are ready. I'll get them from the back."
Rey gave a nod of thanks as Nurse Joy entered the back room. Less than a minute after, the nurse emerged with a tray of Pokeballs. "Here you go. Your Pokemon should be fight fit." She paused, concern flitting across her kind features. "That is . . . except for Houndoom." Seeing Rey stiffen, Nurse Joy swiftly added, "Don't worry too much, though. His burns aren't too severe, but I'd keep him out of a serious battle for at least another day. And, try to find a way to cheer him up."
The coordinator stared questioningly at the nurse.
Indicating Houndoom's Pokeball, Nurse Joy explained, "Under normal circumstances, Houndoom would have been perfectly fine by now, but his disposition seems distant and distracted. And, while his mind and energies are elsewhere, healing proves more difficult."
Rey's expression slightly darkened. "I see." I can't say Houndoom's the only one distracted . . . after this morning . . .
Turning away to avoid her seeing the shadow that now masked his eyes, Rey said, "I'll try to take your advice . . . thanks."