"You know it," a bubbly, melodic voice replied. Jade was a Slime Girl, her translucent neon-green form shimmering under the fluorescent lights. She wore a waterproof apron and a cheerful smile that seemed to float within her translucent face.

Lila, the barista at "Berry Bliss," didn't even have to look up. "The usual, Jade?"

"That’s the problem with humans," Jade teased, her fingers momentarily turning into small whisks as she mimicked the blender’s motion. "You taste with your tongues. I taste with my whole molecular structure. Last time, the kale was too leafy. It felt like... sandpaper."

bill across the counter, which Lila carefully peeled away from a stray bit of lime-scented goo.

She waved a gelatinous hand and headed for the door. "See you tomorrow! Try adding a pinch of sea salt—it helps with the surface tension!"

The bell above the door chimed, but instead of the usual rhythmic thud of sneakers, there was a soft, rhythmic squelch .

Her color shifted slightly, a streak of yellow dancing through her lime-green shoulder. "Perfect," Jade beamed, her skin humming with a faint glow. "The citric acid really gives me a kick."