FSE

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It was quiet morning in Cafe Plaisir. Susu had just woken up, the victim of an insistent bladder, no matter how determinedly she pulled the covers back over herself.

It was useless, anyway. She'd been laying barely awake trying to lay still, but ultimately, no matter how she tried to force it down, she was unsettled.

The Lucario sat up, looking around at the gloom of the curtained party room. The others lay still in their beds, softly snoozing. the small form of the Oddish, Minty, the long form of the Persian, Celia was snoozing sweetly atop her covers in that way that only cats can sell so well, even the normally active forms of the newly-evolved Lopunny, Ricky, the recently-found young, stray Umbreon, Bella and the wild Lucario, Tabron, all lying still, softly snoozing on an easy early morning.

They had all slept enough, of course, with the possible exception of Tabron, who was still recovering from his injuries, but there was no reason to be up right now. The Cafe was looking after them until their owner, Miss Chelsea Belsa, came and got them. There was nothing to do on a morning but rest and relax in a warm morning's shade.

It had bothered her, somewhat... the snores of the others, around her. Though she couldn't make any sense of why. She got up and slipped on her pants and shirt before making her way quietly through the gloom towards the door. She opened the door carefully and shut it almost silently behind her.

Frowning slightly, she tried to remember the quickest way to the customer toilets... was it left then down or right then down then left? She wasn't used to the size or layout of this place, yet.

The pleasant hotel appearance was much the same on the top two floors of the guest block, too, which didn't help much, but on the top floor the views of the inner balconies and garden on the inside of the block helped a bit. On the middle floor, that view was obscured by the inner wall of the customer lounge.

Still, whichever way you went, it was all eerily quiet at this time of the morning, looking almost nothing like the hive of almost intimidatingly boisterous partytime-fun it became on a night. It was as if the place were resting, relaxing. Susu wondered if she preferred it like this.

It was a pleasant enough walk to the unisex bathrooms and once her business was done, Susu found that the walk had been all too short. Washing her hands and stepping out of the bathroom back into the small, middle floor lobby, Susu found herself hesitating instead of heading back to her room.

Of course, she didn't have any more reason to be standing out here than she did back at the room, but at least it was worth a look around, however out-of-place she felt in the lobby's oddly quiet morning silence. She briefly inspected each piece of furniture, looked curiously towards the elevator and stairs... down the staff-only corridor... the curtained entrance to the bathing facilities... the yawning entrance to the large customer lounge and ultimately, towards the most attractive sight, the double-doorway leading to the brick balcony that looked over the inner garden.

She couldn't help but wander up to there. Hardly a wild Pokemon, Susu was at least used to the sight of trees and garden, There was no shortage of pleasant, manicured greenery at the Belsa compound. Quietly, furtively, Susu made her way up to the doors and stared through the window at the balcony. She wasn't sure if she was allowed out there at this time of the day, but she supposed it didn't hurt to check...

Slowly, she tried the handle. Then frowned, with a soft sigh as the handle didn't budge far. It was locked. You weren't meant to go out there. She turned around dejectedly and started heading back towards her room.

"Wait," said a curt, soft voice. "The door is merely latched. First try the smaller knob beneath the handle."

Susu looked over sharply, the voice seemingly having come from no-where. Where there had been no-one before, now, stood at the entrance to the corridor she had first come from, stood the smoothly curved, yet sharp form of a Mienshao, the purple-and-white, bipedal musteline Pokemon looking graceful with her long whiskers and sleeves of white fur, yet dangerous with her long claws. She also stood taller than Susu (embarrassingly so, thought the height-conscious Susu) and she wore a cool expression...

The relatively short and angular Lucario stepped back. "S-sorry!" She said, reflexively, "I didn't know I wasn't meant to-"

The Mienshao frowned at her and Susu immediately began to feel foolish, realising then the meaning of the Mienshao's words... There was something strange and yet oddly familiar about the Pokemon.

The Mienshao spoke again, in that polite and efficient manner, "Your group are guests here, yes..?"

"Umm, yes," said the Lucario, stumbling slightly with her words, "Well, no, well, kind of." She caught herself, cleared her throat, "We're lost, we were stolen, actually and after we... escaped from captivity," she decided to leave out the part about falling out of a plane, having barely come to terms with it, herself, "...and the Café is looking after us until our owner can come and collect us. We're not exactly paying customers."

The Mienshao listened to it all with the same, cool expression as the Lucario finished her brief explanation of their situation. Then after patiently waiting, the Mienshao spoke again, just as politely, "I see. So, as you wait, you are being treated as guests, then?"

Susu paused before speaking, "We don't want to be an inconvenience, of course..."

The Mienshao barely raised an eyebrow, "Nothing about this suggests that you should not be able to enjoy the balcony. The baths are not yet fully opened, but the door will merely have been latched as a matter of routine."

When Susu hesitated a few seconds longer, looking uncertain, the Mienshao approached, walking in an unhurried fashion past the suddenly very-awkward feeling Lucario, then opened the door to the balcony, herself.

"There," said the Mienshao, "It is done."

"Thankyou," said Susu, quickly, then stood hesitantly for only a second longer. At this point, it would be impolite NOT to step out onto the balcony.

She was glad she did, at that. Fresh air and the smell of plants and flowers hit her as a welcoming embrace. Open sky above alone, barely constricted by the recessed, sloping roofs and balconies felt good on her fur. Susu immediately wanted to stretch and then lean on the balcony, sighing in pleasure...

She didn't, however, mindful of her current company as the Mienshao followed her out onto the balcony. She stood to one side and smiled at the sights, whilst fidgeting.

"You appear nervous," said the Mienshao, "Why..?"

Susu turned and faced her, smiling awkwardly, "...Sorry," she said, "I'm making you uncomfortable, aren't I..?"

"Merely curious as to your own discomfort," said the Mienshao, matter-of-factly, "As should be any responsible host."

Susu took a deep breath, then softly sighed. Then nodded, "Of course, thank you for your concern, I don't think you can help me."

"That may be," was the polite response, "but I cannot determine that if you do not tell me."

"I don't really know, myself," said Susu, folding her arms, "So I can't tell you, sorry..."

"Purpose," said the Mienshao, softly.

That had Susu's ears pricking up, giving the Mienshao a curious look, "Purpose..?"

"You accent..." said the Mienshao, "You are from Sinnoh, are you not..?"

Surprised, Susu nodded.

"My own roots extend there," said the Mienshao, "though I suspect my own upbringing was... more traditional."

Some of own Susu's own discomfort was immediately explained to her. No wonder the Mienshao had set her off ease! In this strange place, the Mienshao was like a looming spectre of the ultra-traditional from her own homeland! By contrast, Miss Belsa's family's roots didn't run so deep in the region.

"Yeah, I am!" said Susu, "...and so are you..? Weird..!"

"Indeed," said the Mienshao, "though I not as surprised as I ought be. Coincidences seem to run thick around this place of late. One wonders at the convergence of wandering spirits."

Now the Mienshao had lost her. Susu looked at her curiously, "Wandering spirits?"

"Nothing of consequence but an idle musing," said the Mienshao, "I am known here as Elegance. I am pleased to make your acquaintance."

"Elegance..." repeated Susu, "Well, hi, Elegance, I'm Susu."

"Well met," said the Mienshao, pleasantly.

Susu smiled and relaxed a little, turning towards the garden. You could tell at once it was well cared for, with flowers and bushes and creeping plants all carefully arranged around a grand centrepiece; A mature and growing tree, with healthy, hanging boughs and spreading limbs.

"Beautiful, is it not?" said Elegance, "The Gardener here works very hard. I am often impressed by the attention to detail. The subtle arrangements. It is... rare, in these lands."

Susu nodded, then hung her head slightly, her intended compliment hanging in her throat before she delivered it, with less enthusiasm than intended, "Yeah, it's... really something. Reminds me of home, a bit..."

"Indeed," was Elegance's only answer. Susu glanced across at her. The Mienshao, her white fur looking bright in the morning sunlight, was regarding the garden with sharp eyes.

Susu, thoughtful, couldn't help but ask the Mienshao something. Something that had just caught in her mind... "Purpose... what did you mean about purpose..?"

"It was a passing comment," said Elegance, looking around at her, "but it is something most beings require. A desire to enact themselves to positively affect the situation around them. To play a role. Some deny this sense, others pervert it. Yet all possess it. Most especially Fighting types and I dare say, more especially those from our own homeland."

That gave Susu pause for thought. Her first reaction was to say that she didn't do much back at the Belsa compound, but that assumption didn't last long. As the Pokemon best able to operate human machinery, Susu had done a lot for their older owner, caring for herself and helping to care for the other Pokemon. A role that had become at best advisory since she'd gotten here, for as little as that was worth when she was so far out of place.

"Huh... yeah," said Susu, slowly, "Maybe you're right. Maybe I feel like I'm lacking some purpose, here. I feel like this place is just putting up with us."

"I assure you," said Elegance, "That this Cafe will extend you every courtesy as a guest, for despite the insalubrious suggestion of its primary occupation, I assure it is for the most part, a professional and honourable institution."

"...I get that," said Susu, after a pause, "Everyone here's been great, it's just that..."

"You feel as if you lack purpose, whilst you are here?" prompted Elegance.

Susu slowly nodded, "Yeah, I guess I do."

Elegance nodded in curt accord, "I theorised as much." She turned back towards the garden, leading Susu's gaze back towards its beauty. "This Garden is tended to by a Lucario. A local, in fact. I suspect the spirit of a Fighting type combined with the will of Steel gives even a local of these parts such admirable drive."

"A Lucario, huh?" said Susu, leaning on the rail as she observed the garden and its many fine, lovingly arranged sights, "Well, I think your theory might be right, Elegance. I suppose I'm feeling a bit useless out here. Honestly, this garden is a little humbling..."

"How so..?" asked Elegance, simply.

"...I'm not sure," said Susu, frowning, "but I guess I feel a little helpless." Then suddenly she started laughing, despite herself, "Listen to me, complaining about having nothing to do in a place where people come to um..." she paused, uncomfortably, "relax."

"It is a reasonable complaint, for one of our nature," said Elegance, simply, drawing Susu's attention, "Nor is it a problem with no solution. If you seek purpose here, it happens that those charged with HR management in this place, a Vulpix and Glaceon, are both reasonable and honourable Pokemon on which I am in good terms. Something could be easily arranged, I believe."

That suddenly had Susu gasping and blushing at once, retreating from the Mienshao as she got up from the balcony rail. "Oh! Oh no! I don't think-" she started out, flustered.

Elegance gave her a questioning look, seemingly waiting for her to complete a sentence.

"I uhh..." began Susu, embarrassment flustering the Lucario, blushes showing right through the deep blue and black of her pointed, Jackal-esque facial features, "I'm uhhh... I've never even... and I don't think I could do... THAT..!" She ended up trailing off, in embarrassment, looking away, unhappily. Of course, she didn't think about that kind of thing very much but... Why couldn't she even talk about it..?

"That..?" repeated Elegance, with a curious look.

"I um," said Susu, struggling for words over her inner conflicts, "No offense... I don't think I could ever do what you all do here. I mean, I'm still, I've never... and I don't think.." she trailed off.

Eventually, Elegance seemed to catch her meaning. "Ahh. Do not overly concern yourself on the matter. It is not as required as one might think. I only engage in such activities with great infrequency, myself."

That, along with the utterly sensible, un-tickled delivery quietened Susu's embarrassment, had her straighten up a bit, "You don't..?" she asked simply.

"I do not," replied Elegance, simply, though with a distinct yet subtle air of finality about it.

"...Well..." said Susu, after a pause, "What else is there to do around here..? I mean..."

"There are many possible tasks which do not require crossing certain boundaries," said Elegance, "Many of which you might be suitable for. Perhaps some tea and discussion might aid us in finding such a thing..?"

Susu paused and almost blushed, though this time in honest gratitude, "That would be great, yes, please. I mean, if that's alright... you're being so helpful..."

"It is no trouble," said Elegance, "My time was free and itself lacking purpose. This is an equitable solution."

"Of course, sure," said Susu, with a rising smile.

* * *

It was a while later, after they had enjoyed a traditional (a little-too-traditional for Susu's tastes) round of tea, sat cross-legged before a low table and chatted further in the elegant confines of Elegance's room, which had all the paper screens and ornamentation to make any rusticism fanatic from back in Sinnoh feel comfortable, they had indeed chatted and discussed.

Susu had shared some of her stories with Elegance, of the events that had brought her here, the Contest, the kidnapping, the plane journey... and a little of her life, back in Sinnoh, attending miss Belsa.

In return, the Mienshao had revealed little, merely asking curious questions and often making insightful comments. She didn't give away much, but Susu got a feel for the Mienshao by the outline of her profile, so to speak. Susu kind of wished she had more talent at the aura-reading her kind was meant to be famous for, so that she might get a better bead on the mysterious Mienshao.

Still, it was pleasant enough just to chat to someone, to get out from that room and the feeling of stillness.

Still, there were some odd sounds, from outside the room... grunting, shuffling...

"So;" said Elegance in review, "You cook, you clean and you serve. There are indeed any number of roles you might fulfill, here, in the kitchens, laundry and so on... Though as a member of the Floor Staff, you would be well received."

Susu nodded in acknowledgement, at least as best as she was able. Her ears kept turning towards the door and the sounds outside. "Yeah..." she said absently, "I mean, I never saw myself as a Waitress, but..."

"...but," continued Elegance, for her, "Perhaps it might be worth exploring your options in this new environment. Unintended as your trip might have been, it is none-the-less a chance to broaden one's horizons."

Susu nodded again, but again her attention was distracted by the shuffling, dragging noises and the distant sound of growls and groans. What was going on..?

Then Elegance smiled and that drew Susu's attention. It was strange to see something of a sly smile on the Mienshao's usually calm face.

"Of course," said Elegance, "I have additional motivation to suggest such things, for the very reasons that would make you proficient as a member of the Floor Staff, including your bipedal form and Fighting-Type strength, I would perhaps selfishly deny the Café for want of one of my own personal projects. The very one in fact, that is causing you such distraction as I speak."

Susu, whose ears had continued to twitch at the continuing noises from outside, flushed again, her ears going down in fresh shame. Ever over-conscious of herself and her limitations, it came too easily to Susu... but she was still curious. "What do you mean..?" asked the Lucario, quietly.

Elegance was still smiling, "Go to the door and observe," she politely instructed.

Susu rose and did exactly that, walking over to the doorway and opening it quietly, to peer, through the slit, out to the scene in the hallway.

She recognised the Ninetales, October, at least from the mass of angrily lashing crimson, black-tipped tails. The Fox Pokemon was facing away from her, with his back end right up and his front end right down, providing a slightly embarrassing sight of his dangling male goods, passive though they were, yet as he tugged the large white mass in the corridor towards her, those things moved, quite naturally.

Still, fighting her own shock at this unintendedly graceless display by what Susu had always considered an admirably graceful kind of Pokemon, Susu took in the scene.

October was dragging what appeared to be half of the bedsheets, duvets and pillows, from this floor of the guest quarters. Susu had seen the piles being arranged neatly (for the most part) outside empty rooms each morning by a roving gang of varied Mouse Pokemon for later pickup by a pair of fussy Unfezant, who would carry the neatly folded linens downstairs. Though she hadn't once seen them carrying any of the messily piled, heavily soiled sheets and pillows she had also seen outside SOME rooms...

October appeared to have combined those less-than-savoury piles together and was dragging the soiled... and... fluid-heavy, bedressings, all at once. He was struggling mightily with the task, at that.

...and making the show of himself, that he was, his tails and other extremities thrashing and swaying whenever he jerked at the pile. Susu, her cheeks redder than ever, closed the door again and looked back towards Elegance, bemused and puzzled.

"You can clearly see," said Elegance efficiently, "How your strength and configuration may be of aid around here. As the largest member of the Morning Shift, October is usually called upon for all heavy lifting."

Still shocked, Susu answered slowly, "I see... she said, "Ummm, he could be having an easier time if he took more trips and ummm..." she tried to blink the lingering, uncomfortable sights out of her eyes and trailed off...

"Of course," said Elegance, "He could be doing it more efficiently, but I have not corrected him, as I believe he benefits from the strength training. By the same extended reasoning, I would also appreciate if you did not help him."

"If I didn't..?" said Susu, in puzzlement, as she walked back over to the Mienshao.

"Indeed," said Elegance, "October is not as developed as a Pokemon as his experience would suggest. By his request, he has become a student of mine and I consider myself responsible for his training."

Susu looked at the Mienshao curiously as she sat herself back down, "Responsible for his training..?" she couldn't help but ask, "Is that what you do around here..? Am I your new project..?"

Elegance smiled, "Perhaps you are, Susu, but that is not, as a rule, what I do around here. I am a fully Evaluated Bedroom Waiter, in fact the only female Bedroom Waiter fully dedicated to the Morning Shift. Yet neither is that primarily, 'What I do around here.'"

Susu looked at Elegance curiously, "So, what DO you do around here..?"

* * *

Susu couldn't help but feel that the trip up to Elegance's room as a little pointless, if they were just going to end up back where they had met. Yet there they were, walking back to the middle-floor lobby and approaching the balcony doorway, yet again.

Not quite. Elegance had left her to her own devices for a few minutes, whilst she had gone and discussed the matter with the HR Pokemon she had mentioned.

When she had returned with a smile and a nod, Susu had uncertainly started towards the balcony before Elegance gestured and lead her slightly to the left, to the red-curtained doorway, that lead to the reception area for the Cafe Plaisir baths.

"Cafe Plaisir offers a wide range of services," Elegance had explained, "and not all of them are indecent. This is one area when they need not be."

"Right..." said Susu, with a little doubt in her voice and with more than a little hesitation... but Elegance was about as familiar a Pokemon as she was going to find around here and of a sort she was fairly certain she could trust.

So, they had gone inside.

There had been a small wooden desk behind an elegant table surround. Elegance had strode behind it to take out a small ledger and scrawl a few things upon it. "I am registering you as an Assistant Attendant, today," the Mienshao explained, "Seconded to myself. I will be responsible for your actions." She said it gently, leaving Susu's responsibility in turn unspoken.

The Lucario swallowed, silently, despite herself. She didn't think she would do anything embarrassing, she really hoped she wouldn't... but it was nerve-wracking, all the same. Part of her felt like something major was happening, some great sinking feeling, as Elegance penned her name to the ledger.

The Mienshao had placed the ledger back neatly and carefully before taking off again, leading Susu to the right and a door that lead to the Spa Lounge behind the balcony, which was visible through the windows. That wasn't where Elegance lead her, though, turning to the left and walking along the quiet lounge.

At the end, past the corner of the inner courtyard, the lounge opened up and offered two routes up a small flight of steps. One, to the right, with a wooden surround and double-doors, appeared dark and closed, but the other set of doors was windowed, showing a light and open scene beyond; It was this way which the Mienshao lead her.

They stood open a raised section, at the very nexus of the Cafe Plaisir bathing complex, a surprisingly large area spread out across the back of the Café and split into clear sections, marked by signposts, hanging from the ceiling. They had passed by entrances to "Showers" and "Sauna" on either side and the "Massage Area," was clearly marked ahead, leading down a few steps to an expansive area, with many massage tables and facilities set up, before large full-wall glass-block windows, offering a slightly obscured but grand view of the outside and allowing in a great deal of natural light.

Of course, to the right, the signs pointed towards "Hot Tub" and the ominously titled, "Special Massage Area," which Susu found her eyes lingering discomfortedly upon, before sliding down the way, past the hot tub, partly obscured by its wooden dividing stall, to that extra doorway... So close...

Elegance was already past her heading to the open and well lit area. She paused to look over her shoulder at the Lucario. "Let none of that concern you, for it does not concern me," she said, simply.

Minimally reassured, Susu nodded and followed the Mienshao down to the Massage Area.

* * *

Hours later, she was actually enjoying herself.

They had started simple. The Massage Area was ghostly quiet on a morning, until it was a member of staff who first appeared. Pushing through the doors suddenly and causing Susu's heart to jump.

The large, powerful feline form was that of a Luxray, looking casually regal as he strode into the room, pausing at the top of the few steps and looking down at the two female Pokemon.

"Why, it must be an auspicious morning indeed to herald such sweet sights," said the Luxray, at a protracted, British-accented purr, "Good morning, ladies..."

"Good morning, Ceylon," addressed Elegance, pleasantly, but curtly, "On time as ever."

"Indeed," said the large feline, coming down the steps and approaching, "I see you have some company today, Elegance. Who's the lovely Lucario..?"

Susu tried to introduce herself, but she found herself unable to speak, barely spitting out a, "Ss..." before going quiet. She reminded herself that nothing untoward was happening here. The Luxray was just here for a Massage, nothing more...

"This is Susu," said Elegance, simply, picking up for the stumbling Lucario, "She's a guest here, one of the party of lost Pokemon who recently came from the woods."

"Oh..? I do believe I've heard of this group," said Ceylon, curiously, drawing up to them and making Susu no less the nervous for the Luxray's imposing scale. He was as tall as she was and far more massive... and then he looked Susu and for a moment she thought her breath might stop.

The huge, blue and black Luxray's piercing red and gold eyes swept over her and she felt at once sized-up... and sized up tidily, at that. Not for the first time today, Susu was uncomfortably aware of how short she was for a Lucario... This Pokemon were all making her feel miniature.

"One is glad you don't appear to have suffered any harm to your appearance, Susu," said Ceylon, smoothly, with a pleasant smile, "So you've decided to help out, today..?"

Susu nodded and nervously tried to answer, "Well, ummm... yeah I ummm..."

"It appears a cat has a lady's tongue," said Ceylon, with a big, feline smile, "How rude of me..."

That had made Susu giggle, just about breaking the tension.

So, Ceylon had gone on the table, climbing up there himself before settling down. A great lounging mass of feline Pokemon, fine back and blue fur neat and barely damp after a morning's shower.

When Elegance had began massaging the feline, working upon his back and flanks with a surprising amount of tender touch and focussed, finessed power all at once in the Mienshao's sleeved paws.

Those long 'sleeves' of fine fur tended to obscure the Mienshao's small mustiline 'handpaws,' but you could see by the impression they were making in the Luxray's fine coat of fur of how gentle she seemed... and how suddenly forceful the Fighting type's touch could suddenly become.

Ceylon certainly offered no complaint, in fact the moans and purrs of satisfaction had been something to hear. Something about the great cat being coaxed to relax was itself in turn relaxing.

Elegance had looked at Susu, "You could help with his limbs," she had said, "As you can see, there is no shortage of Luxray to attend to and your assistance would be appreciated."

Smiling shyly, Susu had slowly nodded. Told herself again that there was nothing wrong with this and slowly put her paws towards a solid, feral feline shoulder.

He was big, warm and not unpleasant to the touch. Susu found herself blushing, faintly, her paws reached through that thick fur to grasp at the muscular flesh beneath... feeling its solidity, its formidability... and the tense spots where she knew she ought to press... She did so lightly at first, but there was little response or give. So she pressed harder... and in her nervousness, a little TOO hard.

"Oooh," groaned the Luxray, nearly giving Susu the fright of her life, "...thaaaaat's it..." he said as she recoiled.

Nervously, Susu tried to cover her embarrassment as the Luxray looked at him. "Sorry-" she said reflexively.

"What for..?" said Ceylon, with a smirk, "Big cats like a firm touch," he said smoothly, "That's why I prefer Fighting Types for my morning massage."

"Right..." said Susu, still feeling like a klutz...

"Besides, Elegance is watching you," said Ceylon, "Don't worry about me! She'll let you know if you're doing anything wrong before I do! That one is sharper than a silken sack of swords..."

Susu tried not to snigger at the Luxray's sudden, mocking humour, but his big, playful eyes made it nearly impossible... and the Luxray's humour seemed right on the mark. As soft and refined as Elegance could seem on the surface, her smiles and especially her eyes told of how sharp Susu suspected she could be.

Still, she shook nervously, because she had made sure from the first moment not to get on that sharper side of her. In fact, Susu worried for any poor fool that did...

Suddenly there was a crack, from the Luxray's lower spine and a groan that filled the large room. Susu stared wide-eyed at the cruelly smiling Elegance and apparently pained Luxray.

"That was a particularly bad spot," said Elegance, smoothly, "Once again I fear that Ceylon has been overreaching himself..."

The Luxray looked around with a smirk, completely at odds with the serious injury that Susu had believed she had heard. "Well," he said cheerily, "One feels they must try their best with certain parties..." then he chuckled.

Susu couldn't help but chuckle along.

The tension broken, the rest of the Luxray had been a pleasant enough task and Susu couldn't help but agree with Elegance that he seemed like a task for two! All the same, eventually, it was a relaxed but light and nimble big cat that eventually departed them in gratitude. The charming big cat had looked set to depart with one more comment addressed to Susu, a glint in his big eyes, but Elegance had cut him off with a look that had seemed to discourage him...

Had he been about to make a pass at her, before Elegance's intervention..? Susu's gut tightened with her rising nerves, but the Mienshao had turned to her before Susu could further reflect or comment. "For a first time, your performance was commendable," said Elegance smartly.

"It was..?" asked Susu, her ears high in surprise, "I kept making mistakes and I'm not sure I know what I'm doing..."

Elegance nodded, "As I said, it was good for a first time. Your touch is careful, your attitude attentive. I expect you to have improved by the end of the day."

Susu took the praise with a slightly embarrassed smile, but only slightly.

Ceylon was the first, but certainly not the last they attended to that day. Pokemon and Human customers both turned up to enjoy their services. A pair of Pokemon females working together seemed to draw some interest, as well.

Elegance kept her engaged, throughout, teaching her techniques and methodologies, explaining the science and the hows and whys of certain techniques of massage. Many of them were of course from the east and made vague reference to aura and chi points, the flow of blood and energy and they were a little hard to follow...

"Is it so strange..?" Elegance had asked, as they worked upon the back of a grunting, dark-skinned Human male.

"I know Lucario are meant to be able to do it," said Susu, "I've just... never really tried it, I guess..." Self-doubt crept into her voice. Honestly, she didn't expect be able to accomplish much, even if she tried...

"Any Pokemon can perceive auras, if they are willing to train," said Elegance, matter-of-factly, as she did when she was explaining something, "Some are of course more naturally gifted than others. Chief amongst these, the Lucario."

Susu frowned. "I don't think it's that easy," she said, unhappily, "I mean, it requires all kind of training, right..?" she didn't actually know. She hadn't tried. She'd even evaded the question when Tabron had broached the subject.

"Unless you are the least gifted member of your species, I would be highly surprised if you could not," said Elegance, "and this is a perfect time to practise. The reading of auras is of great utility in massage."

Susu looked away, still frowning, planning to object and then wondering why she was planning on objecting. She didn't have one good reason for avoiding the subject. In fact, when she thought about it, she only had a bad ones. In never trying, she had never been disappointed by failing to measure up... and in never trying, she could potentially remain in ignorance concerning the feelings and physical conditions of certain individuals close to her...

The Mienshao had put her in a corner and forced her to confront her doubts. Of course, objecting now would be tantamount to admitting that she didn't want to purely for the sake of doubts, denial and willful ignorance. She could imagine the look in the Mienshao's sharp eyes if she tried to sell all of that...

'Well,' she reflected, internally, 'if she's gonna confront me about it... I might as well be polite...' "Can you teach me..?" asked Susu, quietly.

"I can," said Elegance.

She did. Whilst the customer had waited patiently, Elegance had taken Susu through the basics of a meditative trance... just sufficient for her to catch the faint perception of things that were not there, of a strange, miscoloured sight of things, even though her eyes were closed.

She was so surprised that she lost it almost right away, losing all of the calm that Elegance had instilled in her... but with a sharp, yet patient look, she had tried again... Closing her eyes, listening to the softened voice of Elegance, reaching within...

When it came again, it was beautiful. She saw herself, exploding with the light of her own exhilaration, as if from outside. She saw the solid, forceful light-coloured aura of Elegance, the Mienshao as sharp and firm in aura as she was in character. The Human on the table wasn't as bright as either of them, but no less alive. His relatively clear-looking normal-type aura showed the energy of his life force and its flow, true to Elegance's word, hinted at problems which could be solved by simple massage.

She had come out of the trance with a giggle, to see Elegance smiling at her. Susu had hidden her blush behind her paws, but there was no hiding the laughter of her exhilaration.

The day had gone on, hours had passed by Susu began barely to notice them, so engaged was she in learning and putting to practise a new skill every ten minutes.

Before long, they weren't alone in there, as other staff members began to arrive.

"Hey Elegance," addressed a brash, female voice, "oh holy frickin' Arceus, I think my eyes might be kiddin' me..."

Susu had looked around to see a bright-yellow Jolteon looking right at them from atop a nearby table. The spiky-furred quadruped smirking at them mischievously from beneath big purple eyes.

"Greetings Neon," said Elegance, without looking at the Jolteon.

Neither of them really listening to the other, the Jolteon went on, "...Elegance has a FRIEND, seriously? I've gotta mark this on my calendar!"

Elegance frowned and did not dignify the Jolteon with a response, whilst Susu looked on unhappily. The Jolteon only smiled with amusement and carried on further.

"Seriously, I didn't think you spoke to anyone besides October and the management, Elegance," said Neon, teasingly, "So, who is this new friend of yours? We don't have that many Lucarios working here."

Elegance still did not respond. Susu looked at her uncertainly.

"What, not talking to me now..?," said Neon, "Is that what we're doing now? C'mon, who's your friend?"

Elegance hissed, unhappily looking away, then turned and spoke, "There is little I have to say to the likes of you, Neon," she said softly, "and if you cared to learn her name, you should ask her, yourself."

"Well, whaddya know?" said the Jolteon, "I guess one word in three has to be right. Pardon my manners," she looked at the Lucario with a smile, "I'm Neon, what's your name..?"

Susu's voice caught in her throat for a moment under the stare of the brash Jolteon, glancing at the clearly uncomfortable Elegance and wondering what might be up between the two of them. Eventually, she managed to mumble, "...Susu."

"Quiet one, aintcha," said Neon, smiling.

Uncertain, Susu looked at her own feet.

"Perhaps she doesn't have much to say to you either," said Elegance, not unbitterly...

Neon frowned at her, suspiciously, "Oh yeah..?" she asked, in a rising tone, "So what have you been telling her..?"

Elegance stared back sharply, "I have told her nothing, perhaps it is your brash crudity standing out for what it is. An unwelcome interruption."

Feeling less and less comfortable, not knowing what issues the two might have between them, Susu backed up a little...

"Of course your tight ass wouldn't make time for introductions," said Neon, "but some of us like to get to know our co-workers, Elegance. Some of us like our co-workers."

Elegance bared her fangs for a second, before looking away, sharply, "Perhaps I think you like them a little too much..."

The Jolteon give the indignant Mienshao a contemptuous laugh before frowning at her, "Again with your disapproval. I'd say you didn't know what you were missin' but I already know that's a weakness of yours. You see more of October than I do but you aint once taken advantage."

"As you have..?" asked Elegance, sharply.

"You bet I have, tight-ass," said Neon with a grin.

"It does not surprise me," said Elegance, her face cool, "October has a taste for base pleasures and I can think of only one Pokemon in this establishment baser than yourself."

"Hey, hey," said Neon with an undeterred grin, "Just because I know a good thing when I see it doesn't mean I'm second to Rain Flower. I've got standards, I just know when not to let 'em make me miss out on some FUN!" She turned to Susu, suddenly, "So, you're really hangin' out with her? What's your story..?"

Susu, caught off guard, stumbled.

"Ignore her," said Elegance, "That would be best."

"Hah!" said Neon, still grinning, "Hasn't worked for you, yet!"

The Jolteon had settled down, but not overmuch, continuing to chat away to whichever neighbour seemed unbusy at the time as she worked. She had a most interesting practise and very brave clients. Susu had occasionally glanced over in wonder to see the Jolteon using her own fur, fired out of her coat with static charge... as acupuncture needles, stabbing into precision points on a human or Pokemon's body. Susu could barely believe it... but Neon's customers walked out at least as happy as theirs.

There were other masseuse at work and many comings and goings. Some Customers would come in with an attendant, some of whom weren't primarily masseuse themselves, but as Elegance explained, were certified to bring in a customer for a 'service before a service,' as it was often put. Embarrassedly, Susu had put that from her mind.

Then there were the other masseuse in general. Susu had to admit they were an interesting bunch... though she could barely keep track of one of them. The fast-moving Linoone was quick in with customers, quickly done... and often quick in-and-out of the Special Lounge area... Susu had stopped paying him attention, but not before Neon had commented, "That's Quippie! If anyone asks you who does the most work around here, that's him!"

For all the embarrassing things happening all around though, the hours had flown for Susu before she knew it. By the time the Lucario was feeling the ache of fatigue, she'd looked up and scarcely believed that it was dark outside.

Her look of surprise changed to one of pleasure, though. This had been the fastest day she'd had since she'd gotten here. The first day since she'd gotten here that hadn't dragged like a prison sentence.

Perhaps there was something to this sense of 'purpose,' after all. She supposed she might be getting paid for this, but that didn't feel like it mattered in the least whether she was or wasn't. For the first time since she'd gotten here she felt like she was doing something worthwhile.

She had even been trusted to work on her own, for a while, as Elegance had briefly excused herself. The Monferno, a simian Fighting-Fire type, seemed appreciative enough of her solo efforts, grunting softly and quietly. It was actually somewhat relaxing...

"Hey, ya doin' alright over there..?" came the sharper voice from earlier.

Susu jumped a little, unintentionally pressing down harder and drawing a groan from the Monferno. She looked around anxious to see the Jolteon, Neon, looking at her whilst stamping slow circles around an Electabuzz's back, the paws crackling with a static charge that was building between masseuse and subject, which neither seemed to notice or mind.

Susu eventually managed to nod, nervously.

The Jolteon smirked at her, even as she continued to rotate in circles, "Y'sure? Still sounds like a Mienshao's got your tongue. She treatin' you alright..?"

Susu wondered what it was with the Pokemon trying to steal her tongue around here... She coughed and tried to smile, managing at least a nervous one, "Umm, sure, she's treating me fine... I just hope I'm doing well."

"Well, if she hasn't shouted at you yet, you must be doing great," said Neon, smiling, turning her head around to look from the other direction as her work turned her about, "Elegance can be a pretty harsh teacher. I mean, she knows her stuff, but then there's the critique... and the shouting... and the droning... and the critique... and the judgement... and-"

Susu nodded at her, before she could go on, "Elegance has been kind..." she said, quickly.

"Well, good..!" said the Jolteon, nodding enthusiastically, "Glad to hear it, I mean, I've asked her stuff before and she's shown me, but damn, she's a pain..." Susu nodded, but when she didn't say any more, the Jolteon suddenly peered at her, narrowing her eyes, conspiratorially, "She's not like, holding you back or anything, is she..? I mean... she's pretty disapproving of well, pretty much everything, but you shouldn't fear her judgement, this is meant to be a place where people are open."

Susu frowned a little, uncertainly, "She's not... holding me back," she said softly, "I'm not... disapproving but..." blushing, she looked down again and didn't finish.

"Ah, you're just shy, huh..?" said Neon, "Well, that's alright. No-one's gonna make you do anything you don't wanna do, either."

Susu nodded and smiled, but said nothing more. Thankfully, Neon was soon enough distracted talking to someone else.

Well, Susu had to reflect, at least no-one seemed to be judging her. She was slightly reassured, certain of course, that everyone had been. Maybe she was being too nervous, after all. She had been going all day and nothing bad had happened. Neon had even said she must be doing good!

She allowed herself a small smile.

Her smile and idle musings were cut short at once when the Monferno she had been massaging touched her paw and gruffly said, "Hey... how much extra for a happy ending..?"

Susu flushed... went silent... then she was rushing away, storming off carelessly, not watching where she was going. She tripped over the Linoone, who barked out in pain... she couldn't remember if she'd apologised or not. Her breath tight, she just stumbled onwards, the shame of that mixing with a nest of worries that bubbled to the surface.

She needed fresh air and just about found it. She stumbled out onto the balcony, glad that it was unlit and unoccupied. Alone, she made it to the wooden rail and leant over, heavily, taking her breath and trying to collect herself in the darkness.

More than anything right now, however, she was embarrassed at her own reaction. It was a simple proposition and now she couldn't control her panic... One simple word, 'no,' would have solved this... but instead she'd stormed off, maybe even hurt someone, just because she couldn't, wouldn't, didn't face her issues...

This was-

Suddenly, she heard the noises. Deep breathing, growling lustful, feral noises. Quite before she could help herself, she opened her eyes. They widened...

The scene was nothing less than pornographic, in the Garden. A Mightyena, a particularly big Mightyena looking about as meeeeaaan as they came, was doing something very sordid with a male Lucario that was even smaller and slighter than Susu was. The wet, noisy sounds were a direct result of their actions, as something far too large was forced, quite visibly to where it should not fit... like an obscenely oversized adams apple...

Susu stumbled back, without rising, almost staggering backwards into the Spa Lounge...

"In future," said Elegance, drawing a gasp out of Susu as she straightened up, "It is best to say, 'Sorry, but I do not perform that service. You should have specified at the desk.'"

Susu, holding her chest, barely able to breathe, looked at the Mienshao. There were a few moments of silence before Susu nodded, twice.

Elegance sighed, "Are you alright..?"

Susu nodded, again, then looked away, in utmost shame at the mess she'd made of things, in the end...

"I prefer honesty," said Elegance, in a calm voice.

Susu looked back at her, remembering, then, to breath again, "...I'm sorry..!" were the first things she said, "I'm... I'm sorry, that was stupid, I know I should have just said no, but I... I can't really explain, I just don't..." she groaned, searching for the words.

Elegance was quiet for a while as Susu continued to struggle.

"I don't even know what it is, I just don't..." Susu went on, "I don't think about that kind of thing and when it comes up, I just can't face it-"

A clawed paw accompanied by a long sleeve of fur rested on her back. A simple touch, uncomplicated, yet oddly soothing, when it ought to have distressed her further. It was odd. Somehow, it worked, though...

Elegance spoke quietly, "You are not the only Pokemon around here uncomfortable with such things. I have never quite accepted the lifestyle here, despite my efforts. Perhaps not all are suited to it."

Susu sighed, taking a deep breath and nodding... then after a moment's pause for thought, looked up at the Mienshao. "If that's true..." she said, "Why do you stay here..? Everywhere I turn around here, someone's up to something..."

"This is true," said Elegance with a curt nod, "Sexual gratification is indeed part of life and business model alike. Culturally ingrained, in fact amongst like-minded Pokemon. I do not fit..." she briefly quietened, "My reasons for staying here are my own and I do not share them with anyone. Suffice to say that this is my place and I do my best to fit to purpose. That said..."

Susu looked at the Mienshao curiously. Her reasons were her own? What did that mean..? She had to wonder as Elegance paused... but then Elegance continued.

"This place is full of examples of honourable, hardworking Pokemon that even at a distance, can inspire one to try harder. The management is excellent and many of the staff, even those such as Neon Staccato, who you met earlier, work hard to improve the art they make of their craft. Whatever that might be. Few however, stand above the young and newly hired Lucario currently engaged in unseemly practise outside."

As interesting as what the Mienshao was saying was, remembering again the shocking sight, Susu winced. She couldn't get those image out of her head... it had been so big... so strange... She spoke just to distract herself, "...and how'd you figure..?" she asked.

"That Lucario," said Elegance, "Is currently receiving that dishonourable Mightyena in his Garden. The Garden you were admiring so intently earlier today."

Susu stared at Elegance as she said it, then looked back out at the darkness, where she had seen what she had seen. She couldn't see it now, of course, hidden as it was beneath the horizon of the balcony, but with keen Lucario ears, she could still hear it.

Elegance went on, "I believe that he is doing so out of a misguided intention of soothing a conflict that is not his own. He does so with the means and tools at his disposal, which are as you see."

Susu looked back around at Elegance to see if she was serious; Which was a ridiculous question. It was etched on every molecule of Elegance's face, composing every fibre of her being. Susu hadn't known Elegance, long, but she had gotten to know her well. Heck, she had seen her very aura. Elegance spoke the truth, as she saw it and only when she felt it was necessary. Her words were always worth listening to.

"It is humbling," said Elegance, "In the extreme, to learn that one seemingly without shame is capable of such admirable nobility and selfless service, is it not?" Susu's searched her eyes as she spoke, but they were as honest and earnest as her voice, of course, "You and I both, Susu, could learn something from Nature's example. That, above all others, is the lesson you should take, today."

Susu, left with a lot of scattered worries and jangled nerves, didn't have a lot else to say, but she did have some new things to talk about. Ultimately, however, she nodded. She didn't know if she agreed, exactly, but she definitely didn't disagree.

It was definitely humbling.

"You have worked hard, today," said Elegance, "and assuming to take the time to properly apologise to Quippie for stepping upon him, you can return to your party with your head held high and a heart full of pride. Let it not be said you have lacked purpose here, for I have found you to be of professional quality." Then the Mienshao smiled, "If you feel like taking further lessons, I shall be happy to assist."

Susu smiled.