The stadium is huge. There's a huge section of seating around the entire competition floor, which is marked with white lines across it. There is a flood light system across the top, and there are six arena entrance gates. I could only stare up at the vast expanse I could hardly believe was indoors.

The registration went by without a hitch. We recognized a few well-known trainers, some of whom we had defeated on the road. In particular, there was the one that had taken care of Milly during her fatigued battle. He was glad to see her, and have her a handshake that lasted suspiciously long.

We received a few requests for autographs and pictures, which we obliged. After all the mingling, we returned to the hotel to practice our routine. The theme for the freestyle is cheerleading. Dewmaru certainly seems to be upset by that. So, we practiced our specialized parts in the hotel room for the hours leading up to the opening ceremonies.

The opening ceremonies were grand. There were several performances by local and foreign groups of entertainers, lots of music and lots of cheering. Concessions were top notch as well, the VIP access seats being next to a buffet-style table with hors d'oeuvres and assorted drinks. Grand stuff.

No rehearsals were done that evening, as it was late when the ceremonies ended. The preliminaries of the freestyle competition are to begin on the morrow.

Rest is important. We're in the competition to win it.

-Takao