Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

 “ALL ABOARD! ALL ABOARD THE GREAT ICEBREAKER CRUISER!! Hello friends! My name is Mango Cookie! Ready for the greatest journey of your lives?” A chorus of children replies with a loud, definitive ‘YES!’. “Haha, great! Remember to follow all the rules and have lots of fun! ALL ABOARD!!”

 Families flood onto the deck of the great Icepiercer cruise ship, one of the biggest cruise ships in all of Earthbread. They arrive in droves of hundreds, probably thousands, all desperate to board the ship as soon as possible. And for good reason!

 Due to its incredible size, the Icepiercer only does one or two trips a year before having to undergo rigorous inspections to make sure it’s all running smoothly. Sometimes, it’s inactive for years on end, and when it’s ready to get back on the water, all tickets are quickly sold out. Any cookie lucky enough to grab a ticket while they’re still available, however, will not be disappointed.

 The journey starts in the Crème Republic, where most guests board the Icepiercer. The next destination is to the fallen kingdom of Tearcrown in the Duskgloom Sea, north of the Republic. Rumor has it this was the old kingdom of the gem mermaids, but sightings of them have become rarer and rarer over the years... Afterwards, they sail through the Candystick Archipelago, visiting some of the Tropical Soda Islands in the Soda Ocean along the way. Next up, the Jellyfish Ocean, where lucky guests can spot large blooms of the gelatinous creatures drifting in the water. This is also where they see the majestic Tower of Frozen Waves, reaching for the moon… And finally, a visit to the Hollyberry Kingdom and the Cookie Kingdom, where big firework shows are sure to wow any onlooker.

 It’s quite the adventure, and yet, that’s not even half of what the cruise has to offer! Aboard the ship, there are pools, karaoke bars, waterparks, an aquarium, and much more! Hundreds of cookies work day and night, tirelessly, to make sure the experience is as high quality as the exorbitant price being charged for it…

 “WE ARE NOW SETTING SAIL! I REPEAT, NO MORE COOKIES CAN BOARD THE CRUISE!” Mango announces the departure, and with that, the great Icepiercer begins its two week long voyage all across Earthbread. “Have fun guys! Don’t hesitate to contact any staff member if you need help, we’re always here to assist!.. Phew, first announcements are always the most exhausting… Hey, Peppy!!”

 Mango turns to call another cookie wearing a staff uniform. Their name tag reads “Peppermint Cookie”. They’re short, with light coloured dough, light blue hair adorned with a small peppermint shaped hat, and a tired look on their face. They seem to be daydreaming when they’re suddenly woken up by Mango.

 “H-Huh?”

 “Your shift at the aquarium hasn’t started yet, right?”

 “No… The aquarium isn't open today. Blue Whale Cookie said not a lot of people visit it on the first day, so it’s better to just have the day off.”

 “Lucky… Wanna come with me to the bar then?” Peppermint walks over to Mango, who puts his arm around their shoulder as they begin making their way to the juice bar.

 “Sure, but… Shouldn’t you be helping Captain Ice Cookie?”

 “She probably doesn’t need my help right now. Besides, my throat is sore from all the screaming. I need a drink…”

 “Hehe… Alright…”

 The two cookies walk the deck of the ship, looking around at the hundreds and hundreds of cookies already enjoying all the amenities the Icepiercer has to offer. Some are relaxing in the pool, some are playing ball games, some are admiring the scenery and some have simply retired to their rooms. From wizards, to scientists, thieves to sheriffs, coming from the Vanilla Kingdom, the Cacao Kingdom, the Hollyberry Kingdom, everywhere! All manner of cookies have come to enjoy this bucket list experience.

 “Woah, so many guests this year! I wonder if something special is going on?”

 “This year there have been more sightings of mermaids than usual… Wouldn't surprise me if that had something to do with it. Perhaps we’ll be lucky enough to see one ourselves.”

 Moving between the crowd of people scattered throughout the cruiser, Mango and Peppermint finally arrive at Sparkling Cookie’s Juice Bar. The place is packed despite having just opened, and despite just how early it is.

 The duo sits down at the bar top and are quickly greeted by the cheery Sparkling Cookie.

 “Welcome you two! You’re here early… What can I get you started with?”

 “A mango martini please!”

 “Just… A mint seltzer please…”

 “Coming right up! Should I open a tab?”

 “You can put it on Captain Ice’s tab!”

 “Haha! Not doing that!”

 The charming bartender turns his back to start preparing the drinks. Meanwhile, Peppermint and Mango take the opportunity to chat a bit.

 A lot.

 Honestly, it’s mostly Mango.

“SobasicallyIhadtogetawayfromthesedurianeerpiratesbutIalsohadtohelpthekidnappedvillagersescapesoIwastryingtosneakaroundbutoneofthemsawmeand–”

 “P-Please calm down! I can’t understand you when you talk fast like that…”

 “Sorry! Got a little carried away, haha!” The drinks are set in front of the pair by Sparkling Cookie. “Ah, finally! Thanks bartender!” Mango sips some of his drink. “Ahhh, that’s the good stuff! Anyway, what were we talking about? Oh yea, so, after the durianeers–”

 The chatty cookie continues their ramble, but Peppermint hardly pays him any mind, feeling themselves zoning out as they stare into the distance. It was a common tactic they had to avoid awkward situations. They just entered their mind palace, and let themselves drift in thought, as if getting carried by the waves in the open sea. As they do this however, they’re met with an unfamiliar face staring back. Piercing blue eyes looking right at them, like a shark eyeing its prey.

 The minty cookie is startled awake by this. Their white dough takes on a slight blue blush from the embarrassment.

 “And so then!.. Umm, Peppy? Are you good?” Mango Cookie looks over his shoulder at where the mysterious blue eyed cookie is sitting. “Ah. Them.”

 “Do you know them?”

 “Yea, you could say that I guess… Word of advice? Stay far away from that cookie.”

 “What- Why?”

 Mango leans in to not so subtly whisper in Peppermint’s ear, looking left and right to make sure he’s not being heard.

 “That right there? That’s Sorbet Shark Cookie… And you can probably already tell, but they’re one of the worst criminals out there…”

 The blue haired cookie looks over at Sorbet Shark again. They watch Sorbet sip on their drink and cringe at the alcohol, then start having a coughing fit, doubled over themself.

 “...Are you sure?”

 “Sure as I can be! That cookie is a…” Mango whispers even quieter. “Pirate!”

 “A pirate?!”

 “Keep your voice down!”

 “What is a pirate doing here??”

 “Beats me… But Captain Ice seems to trust them.”

 Mango sits up straight, finishing the rest of his drink, before asking for another one from Sparkling.

 “‘Trust them’? How d’you know?”

 “Well…” Mango avoids looking Peppermint in the eye. “I’m pretty sure they’re part of the aquarium staff?..”

 “Huh?! So I’m working with a pirate?!” Some bar guests turn to look in Peppermint’s direction.

 “Shh! Keep your voice down! We don’t want to alert–” 

 “Mango Cookie.” An older woman appears from seemingly nowhere and places a firm hand on Mango’s shoulder.

 “C-Captain Ice Cookie! I- uhm–”

 “First you disappear during the busiest part of the day, when we need all hands on deck, and now I find you here, gossiping about my staff around passengers.”

 “I- well, Peppermint was–”

 “My office. Now.”

 “Y-Yes ma’am!” Mango rises to his feet, saluting the captain, before shuffling away to her office. Captain Ice watches the chatty cookie leave before returning her attention to Peppermint.

 “Don’t mind him, darling. Sorbet Shark is a good cookie. I’m sure you’ll get along just fine.” She gives the short mint cookie a reassuring half-smile, before turning to follow Mango to the Captain’s Cabin. “Enjoy the rest of your day off. Work starts at 8 tomorrow morning. I expect the best from you, dear.”

 “O-Of course!”

 With that, Captain Ice leaves the juice bar. Every cookie she passes immediately makes way for her, compelled by the captain’s imposing presence.

 Peppermint Cookie lets out a breath they hadn’t realised they were holding and relaxes their shoulders. They turn back to the bar top, gingerly raising their glass to their lips for a sip of the mint seltzer, when something in the corner of their eye catches their attention. The so-called pirate, Sorbet Shark Cookie, had snuck up on them and was now sitting in Mango’s seat.

 “AH! O-Oh, sorry, didn’t see you there…” Peppermint jumps in their seat, startled, before shaking away the shock to focus on their new colleague. From this distance, the mint cookie can finally get a good look at them.

 Sorbet has dark blue, bouncy gelatin hair in the shape of a fin. Their dough is much darker than Peppy’s, and they’re slightly taller too. The pirate cookie has deep, ocean blue eyes that, similarly to Peppermint, are half-lidded and unfocused. Paired with their dopey grin, it makes Sorbet look very relaxed, maybe even a bit dazed.

 Peppermint catches themselves staring.

 “I-I’m Peppermint Cookie… Friends call me Peppy though. You’re Sorbet Shark, right?”

 The pirate cookie offers a warm smile and rests their head on their hand, leaning on the bar top. Peppermint can feel a soft blue blush spreading across their cheeks.

 “... S-So… You’re working in the aquarium, huh? I guess that means we’re working together, heh…” Sorbet doesn't answer and instead just roams their eyes over Peppermint’s body. The mint cookie is blushing even harder. “A-Are you working as a vet, or a tour guide like me?... Probably not if you’re this quiet, heh…” Sorbet chuckles then leans in closer to Peppermint, looking up at their light blue eyes, then down at their chest and then down at their legs… They linger for a while longer before snapping their head back up, inches away from Peppermint’s thoroughly flushed visage, a slight blush also spreading across their face.

“AHEM! W-Well, uh! I-It was a pleasure meeting you, but- I should probably get going, haha…” Peppermint stands up in the blink of an eye, adjusting his shorts to try and cover up a bit more. “I guess I'll, uh, see you tomorrow then? I’ll help you settle in then!”

 The light-doughed cookie is ready to hide in his sleeping quarters for the rest of the day and only leave for work tomorrow, but before they can go wallow in their own embarrassment, Sorbet takes their hand.

 “Huh–”

 Slowly, they press their ruby lips to the back of Peppy's palm. The pirate winks up at the flustered cookie, then grins and lets go of the hand, sitting back up straight. They close their eyes and flash a toothy grin while waving goodbye.

 “...”

 Peppermint doesn’t utter a word before hurriedly walking to the exit and back to their room.

Chapter Text

 They had returned to their room. Face warm, hands sweaty and eyes wide open. 

 They closed the door and leaned against it, sliding down until they were sitting on the floor and could feel the gentle sway of the boat underneath much more clearly.

 The blue haired cookie put their hands either side of their head and leaned forward, trying to calm themselves a bit. It was useless though. Their heart was still beating much faster than it should, a sensation that the generally relaxed cookie wasn’t quite used to.

 “What… Just happened??”

 Peppermint slowly crawled towards the small bunk bed in the corner of the dimly lit, barely decorated sleeping quarters. They climbed onto the lower mattress and sprawled out on the sheets, staring up at the ceiling. 

 “Did… That pirate, they…” Peppermint lifts the hand Sorbet had kissed up to their face, twisting their wrist to inspect it as if it was some mysterious deep sea creature. “... They didn’t even say anything… Pirates are usually much more boastful and loud”

 The mint cookie thinks back to the encounter, remembering every little detail they could. Sorbet’s gaze, hazed and mellow, became much scarier while looking at Peppermint… Focused… As if studying them.

 Especially their legs for whatever reason.

 Peppermint throws a blanket over their doughy thighs while blushing. 

“Do they do that with everyone? They better not do that in front of the guests…”

 After taking one more moment to organise their thoughts and calm their breathing, the mint cookie slowly rises back to their feet and walks over to the little wooden desk in the other corner of the room. They sit down and reach for a small stack of flashcards.

 “Maybe… I shouldn’t focus too much on that, huh? Maybe they’re just… a little awkward from their time as a pirate…” Peppermint holds the flashcards, which all hold various fun facts and interesting stories about all kinds of marine life. Their grip, however, is a little too tight, and their gaze isn’t even focused on the cards. “Pirate…” They mutter.

 Peppermint's face adopts a pensive look, with furrowed brows and slightly pursed lips. 

 “... Ah! Can't get distracted!” Snapping out of the trance-like state, Peppermint holds the cards in front of them and begins rehearsing for next day's tour. They're mostly tidbits like “Pancake Manta Rays only inhabit the warm waters of the Soda Ocean!” and “Choco Crabs can produce unique melodies by knocking on their coconut shells!”, mostly things to entertain the young and not very knowledgeable cookies, and cultivate some excitement for underwater ecosystems. An hour passes by with Peppermint committing all the information to memory, while predicting any possible follow-up questions the guests may have. They didn't particularly enjoy feeling unprepared… 

 Not long after, the tour guide is ready to call it an early night and just head to bed. Most of the information on the cards is already memorized and work starts pretty early after all.

⋅˚₊‧ ଳ ‧₊˚ ⋅ DAY 2 ⋅˚₊‧ ଳ ‧₊˚ ⋅

 The light from the Sun is slowly climbing the floors of the Icepiercer hotel, entering every window to invite all cookies inside to another day of the exciting cruise adventure.

 For most, it’s a relaxing start to the day, as guests take a moment to bask in the gentle glow, slowly rubbing their eyes until they climb off their beds to start their day anew. 

For Peppermint Cookie meanwhile– 

 “I SLEPT IN!!” They jump off the bunk bed in a hurry, almost tripping over themselves to reach the closet and take out one of the uniforms inside. They quickly button their shirt before reaching for a pair of shorts. They hold it for a bit, narrowing their eyes, before opting for the longer pants instead. 

 Whilst getting dressed, a knock on the door startles them. Peppermint trips over themself reaching for the handle, pulling the door open to reveal Blue Whale Cookie. 

“Good morning, Peppermint Cookie. You were running late for your shift, so I came to check in on you.” She said, a calm smile spreading across her face. “Is everything alright? You look a bit… umm, disheveled?”

“Y-Yes! Sorry ma’am, I just overslept is all… It won’t happen again!” The two start walking to the aquarium together. Peppermint adjusts their clothes and straightens their hair as best as possible.

 “Oh no! Are you having trouble sleeping? You didn’t stay up late again did you…” She questions, a hint of worry in her voice. “Oh, I can already see it. You spent the whole night preparing for today’s tours, didn’t you?”

 Peppermint is about to deny the claim, but quickly stops themselves, a hint of blue blush slowly appearing on their face as they think back to the previous night. The mint cookie had fallen asleep early. What kept them in bed wasn’t exhaustion but rather… a dream–

 “Y-Yeah! Sure…”

 “Oh Peppermint, dear… Please make sure to get a full 8 hours of sleep, every night! We need you in tip-top shape for your delightful tours. How I wish I could attend them sometime… Oh! Speaking of…”

  Blue Whale produces a small pamphlet from her bag, and hands it over to the minty cookie.

 “We’re doing things a little… different this year. Surely you’ve heard of the recent mermaid sightings?” Peppermint scans the pages of the pamphlet, finding nothing out of the ordinary besides a new section at the end. “Well, to attract more visitors, we added a new exhibit to the aquarium. A mermaid exhibit! Isn’t that fun?”

 “O-Oh…” 

 “We even hired a mermaid performer! Exciting, right? I've met them personally, and I must say- No one swims quite like them!” The blush on Peppermint’s face becomes more evident, catching the attention of the older cookie. “Peppermint, dear, is everything alright? You’re all blue in the face!”

 “A-Ah, no, I’m fine!” The blushing cookie waves both hands in dismissal. “... I’m a bit worried though… I didn’t prepare anything special! I’m not sure I’ll do a very good job…”

 “Nonsense! I’m sure you’ll do just fine. There’s not a cookie on Earthbread as ready to talk about the sea as you, and you know it! Don't worry…” She pinches their cheek playfully then stops walking, turning to Peppermint and waving goodbye. “Well, here we are! I’ll see you soon Peppermint. Remember to give it your all!”

 Above the tour guide’s head is a large sign reading “Blue Whale Aquarium” in a large, fancy font. It was placed on a building with dark blue walls and various decorations of marine creatures, such as jellyfish and starfish. Some cookies are already going inside, greeted at the door by a cookie with long, jet black hair.

 “Black Ink! Good morning.”

 “… Go…”

 “... Right… Sorry… Oh, actually, do you know if Candy Diver was looking for me?”

 “I don’t… know…”

 “... W-Well, thanks anyway! I’ll see you around!”

 “... Tears…”

 Peppermint turns back to the dark hallway of the aquarium and makes their way inside. They reach a central room with a large, illuminated tank in the middle reaching the ceiling. Inside are some small fish swimming in large schools, going up and down the cylindrical habitat. 

Surrounding it is a small gathering of cookies, eyes roaming the room and the creatures in it. From the crowd, a figure emerges, marching over to Peppermint. They look… interesting. This cookie (?) has a fishbowl head with water and two gumballs inside. They wear a diving suit underneath their uniform, which has a manager's name tag on it reading “Candy Diver Cookie”, and even have an oxygen tank on their back. They also speak in a rather… peculiar way…

 “☉o☉▶!!” 

 Sounds produced by the water sloshing about inside Candy Diver’s head, and hitting the gumballs into each other and into the sugar glass of the bowl ring out.

 “I know! I’m sorry for being late…”

 “O☉☉●…” The diver cookie begins walking away.

 “I understand. I’ll take it from here then, thank you.” 

 Peppermint steps forward, clapping their hands together to get the attention of everyone nearby.

 “Excuse me, everyone? Hello! My name is Peppermint Cookie and–”

 “HAH! Don’t tell me this is our tour guide?!”

 “Strawberry Crepe! How rude! As a king’s assistant, you aren’t allowed to go around insulting my subjects!”

 “Pfft, whatever…” The pink haired cookie, Strawberry Crepe, crosses their arms and pouts.

 “Please, forgive my partner’s rudeness. Your king is most delighted to have you as our tour guide!” The blonde cookie, a so-called ‘king’, strikes a heroic pose that makes him look cuter than it does cool…

 “Right… Well, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Peppermint Cookie. I've been studying marine life since I was very young… about the age of you two actually!” They boop Custard Cookie's nose. He giggles.” And today, I'll take you on a magical exploration of all the sea has to offer! Well? Shall we begin our tour?” A chorus of enthusiastic agreements reply to the tour guide. “Very well! I have many stories to tell you… I hope you’ll enjoy them.”

 With that, the cruise’s first aquarium tour officially begins. 

 Peppermint brings the small-ish group of 10 or so cookies along on a full visit of the facilities. Despite the small audience, the mint cookie enthusiastically presents every single room as if they were presenting to all of Earthbread. They take the sea slug exhibit and twist it into a series of incredibly interesting facts and curious folklore. They turn the pirate exhibit into an interactive section, sending everyone on a little scavenger hunt for buried treasure. They turn the licorice octopus tank into a spot the difference game, taking advantage of the animal’s camouflage capabilities.

 Easy to say, everyone is deeply invested– even the animals themselves! They waste no time making sure every creature is appreciated for all they are.

Until finally…

“And here… is our final stop!” Peppermint exclaims, turning to a large and mostly empty tank. “The Mermaid exhibit!” 

 The tour group stands in silence, awaiting for some type of grand reveal that never comes. Even Peppermint seems to be awaiting something. They didn’t really have anything planned for the last second addition that was this exhibit… They were kinda counting on it working itself out…

“...Tsk. I don’t see any mermaids in there...” Strawberry Crepe mutters under their breath, rolling their eyes. Custard Cookie simply sighs in response.

“... M-Maybe we just have to wait a little longer–”

As if on cue, a blur of cyan surges from behind the colorful coral structure in the center of the large tank, propelling itself up to do some spins before heading straight for the group at blinding speed. They stop just shy of hitting the glass, scaring some of the younger guests (which is to say Custard Cookie), and then greet the crowd with a wide smile. 

 “I-Is that a… M-MERMAID?! Ughh…”

 “C-CUSTARD!” The blonde cookie faints onto his shorter partner. “It's just a cookie in a costume! Geez…”

 They swim around the tank, smiling and waving to the crowd, who's now cheering and taking pictures, until finally they come to a halt in front of the tour guide, who stands there in disbelief.

 “S… Sorbet?”

The cookie in front of them resembled Sorbet Shark Cookie somewhat, though with some notable distinctions. The fin on their head was far larger than yesterday, along with, well, the rest of them. Their dough was far paler, taking a more pastel tint than their usual dark tone. The shark-like tail they wore… it looked so beautiful and realistic… Peppermint themself would have been fooled by it if they hadn't seen the pirate walking on two legs the day before. Perhaps it was just the tank’s lighting. It was still uncannily realistic... 

“Sorbet Shark Cookie…?” The pale cookie muttered, entranced by the pirate’s charming yet predatory look. “Is that…”

The shark cookie slowly approaches the glass, their piercing eyes staring the mint cookie down, freezing them in place. That predatory gaze that contrasted so harshly with the cookie’s dopey grin was one of the clues that this mermaid performer really was Sorbet. 

 The mermaid stared at Peppermint for what felt like hours. Yet again, they seemed to be studying them for whatever reason. Yet again, they seemed extra focused on the guide’s legs… (and a tad disappointed at the choice of garments). The shark cookie didn’t even feel any shame at what they were doing, moving their body to get a better angle at Peppermint’s complete physique. Then, after all that, they simply waved and returned to the crowd, doing more of those tricks- spinning and blowing bubble rings for the guests’ amusement.

 Sorbet even blew a bubble ring in Peppermint’s direction! It just… didn’t quite look like a normal ring. It was weirdly dented at the top, creating two hills and a pointed bottom. It popped right under the mint cookie’s nose.

 …

 They were getting distracted.

 “U-Umm, anyway! Just like our friend here is showing us, mermaids–”

 “Woah, it’s so cool!” A cookie with swimming trucks and a tan speaks up, followed by a couple of the other visitors.

 “So majestic…”

 “Look, it’s blowing bubbles!”

 “A mermaid..? They must come to my kingdom!”

 “If you’re done fainting can you please get off of me…”

 “Guys, could I have your attention please? So, mermaids are actually descendants of–”

 Peppermint tries to take control of the tour once again, but Sorbet has clearly charmed the audience, and all seem unwilling to listen to the history lesson about mermaids when there’s a mermaid right in front of them! Even if it is just a land cookie in a costume.

 “... Sigh… I guess it can’t be helped.” They let Sorbet have the spotlight for now. “... They’re surprisingly graceful…” 

 Sorbet glides through the water, cutting through it with their pointed fins. Their tail moves in a hypnotic pattern, propelling them where they want to go while also being generally quite mesmerizing to the onlookers. Even so, the mermaid shark seems really dedicated to impressing the visitors, pulling out every trick they know. The crowd eats it right up.

 “Hey. You.” Strawberry Crepe has somehow snuck up on Peppermint. It was probably quite easy considering the mint cookie was completely entranced by the mermaid show too.

 “H-Huh? Oh, yes, did you have a question about mermaids? Or… anything really?”

 “Yea. Where’s their oxygen tank.”  The deadpan monotone seriousness in Strawberry Crepe’s voice was a little unnerving…

 “Oxygen tank? I don’t think-”

 “They’ve been underwater for a couple of minutes already, plus, they’re doing tricks. Do you seriously think I’m dumb enough to think there’s not some trick involved?”

 “N-No! Well, I mean, maybe Sorbet is just really good at holding their breath–”

 “Strawberry Crepe! Are you being mean to my subjects again?”

 “... Tsk. No… I just wanna know if they have some cool mechanism for providing oxygen or something…”

 Sorbet suddenly swims up to the glass again, catching the attention of Peppermint and the other two. They seem to be trying to entertain the pink haired cookie, who’s been mostly indifferent to the show so far.

 “Strawberry Crepe, look! They’re trying to communicate!”

 “It’s not like they’re an animal, Custard. Hey, cookie! Tell me how you’re breathing underwater!”

 The mermaid’s eyes widen in some sort of sudden realization, and they quickly rush to the top of the tank.

 “Hey!! Come back!”

 “Maybe they’re going up for air?”  Peppermint wonders, trying to get a glimpse of the aquarium canopy where the shark cookie has returned to. “... I’ve never seen a cookie stay underwater for so long… Where did a pirate like them even learn to do that?”

 “P-Pirate?!” Custard squeaks out. “That mermaid is a pirate?! Pirate mermaid?!”

 “OH, no! No, that’s uhh… just a nickname! They’re not actually a pirate, of course not!”

 Custard still seems a little shaken. Crepe leans in to whisper something in the little king’s ear and then takes the his hand in their own.

 “Don’t worry. If they really were a pirate, they wouldn’t be working in this dingy aquarium. But even if they were… I wouldn’t let them get near us.” One of Strawberry Crepe’s wafflebots, a small hand shaped drone decorated like a crepe that had mostly just been following the pink haired cookie so far, rises up and dramatically clutches the air in sync with the short cookie, who replicates the gesture. Custard chuckles, seemingly amused by the other.

 Peppermint steps away from the glass, unable to spot Sorbet, or even the top of the tank for that matter. They clasp their hands and announce:

 “Okay everyone! It seems our mermaid friend is calling it here! That was a real fun show, huh?” Everyone agrees enthusiastically, except for Strawberry Crepe, who just tilts their head and raises their shoulders, trying to appear uninterested. “Haha, I think so too! But let's let our friend rest for now, and make our way back to the ship, so we can keep enjoying this beautiful sunny day. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop!” The group begins dissipating. “It was wonderful meeting you all! Feel free to come back anytime!”

 The majority of the small crowd enters the gift shop, all except for Custard and Strawberry Crepe, who seemingly decide to go check out the touch pools again. Peppermint lets out a sigh of relief, knowing it was finally their break time.

 Being a tour guide is really exhausting!

⋅˚₊‧ ଳ ‧₊˚ ⋅ 

‘What am I doing? What am I doing? What am I DOING?!’ Peppermint screamed at themself internally while making their way to the aquarium’s staff area. They originally thought to bring some water to Sorbet, maybe have an actual conversation where they didn't get flustered and run away? At the very least, they wanted to compliment Sorbet for the frankly impressive show…

 Unfortunately, the odd nervous feeling had returned. Screaming at them to turn around…

 Why was it back?! Peppermint had always managed to stay under control when introducing themselves, and never really bothered much with what others thought of them in the first place… But going to meet with Sorbet, it just felt like they really had to get it right.

 With a deep breath, they knock on the door of the dressing rooms.

 …

 Sorbet slowly creaks the door open, just wide enough to put their face through it. They seemed confused as to why someone was knocking on their door at such a random time.

“H-Hi! Sorry to disturb you, I- Umm, it's me, Peppermint Cookie? The tour guide for today?--”

 Before the mint cookie can finish their sentence, Sorbet opens the door the rest of the way, one hand in the air and giving a dopey smile. 

 Well, at least the pirate seemed happy to see them.

“Here, I got this for–...” The pale cookie outstretches their arm, offering the water bottle to Sorbet before suddenly seizing up. “...You–”

Peppermint shoves the water into Sorbet's chest, letting it fall on their hands, before quickly turning and hiding their face. At that moment, the mint cookie could see that Sorbet wasn't exactly done getting dressed…

Draped in only an oversized white robe, Sorbet's chest was pretty clearly visible, as the garment seemed to fall off their shoulders.

 Considering the fact their inner thigh was also visible, Peppermint was pretty sure the robe really was all they wore…

“I’m so sorry! I-I didn’t mean to disturb you while you were… indecent. I'll just–” They stutter, frozen in place while begging to just be teleported away or something…

 Sorbet, rather than send them away, simply chuckles, and gives Peppermint a sly, half-lidded look, before making an odd gesture with their hand.

 They raise it up to their bottom lip, palm towards themselves, and then bend their elbow 90⁰ or so outwards.

 …

 Wait…

 No… It couldn't be…

 Were they blowing kisses??

 That couldn't be it! Unbelieveable, simply unbelieveable…

 But then again, it was… “consistent” with their other weird behaviour. Are all pirates this flirty? Must be the lack of proper socializing.

 Peppermint isn't having this, no siree! They're not letting themselves get all blushy and awkward just cuz this cool, attractive, barely dressed pirate/mermaid was suddenly blowing kisses at them!

 No, this time, Peppermint would be the one to fluster Sorbet!

 So, the blushing cookie breathes in once more to prepare. Then, with half-lidded eyes as well, they press the tips of their fingers to their lips, and blow a kiss into the air, before winking.

 Perfect. A master seductor. And now to see it take effect on Sorbet…

 The pirate spends a couple of seconds just giving them a blank stare, doubtless entranced by Peppermint's charm, and then…

 Uproarious laughter cuts the silence of the mostly empty staff area they find themselves in.

 Ouch…

 …

 They're still laughing. Wow.

 Even for a pirate, that's a pretty cold-hearted rejection…

 “... Right…” The mint cookie looks down at their feet and starts turning right to go back to their room. “I'm sorry for bothering you… I'll be on my way then--”

 Still wiping away the tears of laughter from their eyes, Sorbet places a hand on Peppermint's shoulder to get their attention. 

 And then… more weird signs.

 They point to their chest. Then raise the hand to their mouth in a sideways thumbs up and move it towards the mint cookie.

 “... Huh?”

 Sorbet sighs. Then they wag their finger and mimic a mouth talking with their hand, as if they had an invisible puppet.

 “O-OH! Wait, you're… You're mute?!” Sorbet nods, their dopey relaxed expression back on their face. “Oh my oven… that- that makes so much more sense! I thought you were doing some, like, weird flirting technique or- or maybe just messing with me, but… This makes so much more sense. You've been trying to communicate this whole time! I-I'm really sorry!! I hope I didn't offend you or anything, I just–”

 Sorbet waves in front of Peppermint and shakes their head smiling, trying to communicate a “It's fine, don't worry!”

 “Right. Sorry again. Or, wait, actually!-” Peppermint moves a clutched fist in a circular motion over their chest. “Is- Is that correct? I think that means ‘sorry’? I don't know a lot of Crispia Sign but… I did learn a bit from Captain Ice…”

 Sorbet's face slowly morphs into one of pure, unadulterated glee. They look absolutely overjoyed with eyes lit up and the widest smile… They jump up and down for a bit, grounding themselves to nod enthusiastically before continuing their happy hopping.

 “I'll take that as a yes then? AH, your robe is falling!! Stop jumping!” Peppermint rushes forward in a hurry to grab the robe and pull it back up. “Phew… You have to be more–”

 Peppermint looks back up and realizes that only a few inches separate Sorbet's grinning face and themself. 

 Instantly, a blue blush burns through their face. And while a certain part of Peppermint knows they should pull away casually and not even mention it, or something else that could defuse the situation… Another part is deeply distracted by Sorbet's ruby lips.

 “... Careful…”

 The pirate looks down at the tour guide, who's still immobilized and hanging onto the white robes. They place a hand on Peppermint's to see if they're okay–

 “S-SORRY! I-I was thinking about, uhh- A-About how I have to leave now! Yea, sorry, Captain Ice is- and you know, she umm…” They stutter over themselves and stumble away, tripping repeatedly. “TALK LATER, BYE!” They shout from the end of the hallway.

 “... OoOOo…” Sorbet gently closes the door after Peppermint runs off.

 The mint cookie bumps into a couple of cookies as they run through the ship, too laser focused on getting to their sleeping quarters to care.

 It had happened again! Once more, they had let themselves get flustered and once more had run away. It's like they couldn’t hold a conversation at all with them! How embarrassing…

 Sorbet was probably tired of their antics by now… They must come off really rude, always running away from the pirate…

 Were they really worrying about offending a pirate right now.

 Witches, it was silly… Even if the “pirate” has left that life behind, it still sounds really silly.

 But regardless, they had to do better. They couldn't let themselves continue to be such a nervous wreck around Sorbet.

 Maybe just… after they calmed down a bit.

 If this kept up, Sorbet might actually get upset and start ignoring or pushing them away! Worse yet, they could even complain to Captain Ice! And then make Peppermint walk the plank and-

 *KNOCK* *KNOCK*

 … Another knock on the door…

 It didn't sound like Blue Whale this time… She was probably having lunch with Captain Ice right now anyway, and it's not like Peppermint was particularly late to the next tour.

 *KNOCK!* *KNOCK!* *KNOCK!*

 “J-Just a moment!”

 They were getting impatient…

 Peppermint cautiously opens the door but it suddenly swings open and a certain orange haired cookie steps in.

 “PEPPY!! What do you think you're doing?!”

 “M-Mango Cookie?? What's wrong, did something happen?”

 “Yes! You went to talk to that cookie didn't you!?”

 “H-Huh?”

 “Don't ‘Huh’ me! I told you they're a dangerous pirate and that you shouldn't trust them, didn't I?”

 “Well–”

 “But you visited them in the changing rooms, all alone! It's like you're trying to get in trouble!"

 “Mango, I–”

 “And worse yet! I saw them a couple of minutes ago, all happy and giggly and stuff. Which makes me think you two were hanging out as buddies too! After all, you were the onlycookiewhowentinthereandtherewasnootherreasonforthemtobethishappysoyoumusthavehadaprettynicechatorgamesor–”

 “Wait–”

 “Or maybe more than that???”

 “MANGO!! Please! I can't even understand what you're saying anymore!”

 “S-Sorry! Got a little carried away…”

 “Sigh… Look, I know they're a pirate and all but I really enjoyed their mermaid show earlier, and I wanted to go compliment them about it. That's all.”

 “Oh… So is that why they're happy?”

 “... I… Never actually got the chance to compliment them, so I don't know why they're so happy… Regardless–”

 Peppermint moved to their bunk bed, sitting down on their mattress as Mango followed them inside.

 “Do you… really think they're all that bad?”

 “... Did you seriously ask me that? Of course they are! They're a pirate for crumb's sake!”

 “Ok but are you sure they're not… redeemed? Captain Ice Cookie vouched for them… So did Blue Whale Cookie…”

 “W-Well–”

 “Have you ever actually seen them do anything wrong?”

 “Of course I have!”

 “... So?”

 “... Look, it doesn't matter what I saw! What matters is that they're not trustworthy!!”

 “It kind of sounds like you have no reason to doubt them…”

 “Them being a nasty pirate is reason enough! Plus, I'm pretty sure they stole my lunch…” Mango scratches the back of his head, as if not even himself was buying the accusation. “Which reminds me, would you like to eat with me today?... Andbuymylunchprettyplease?”

 Peppermint sighs, before getting up. They move towards Mango Cookie and begin pushing him by the shoulders until he's outside.

 “I still have another tour to do. My lunch break is in an hour or so if you're willing to wait.”

 “I'll be waiting!”

 “Now please… I would like to unwind a bit before going back.”

 “S-Sure! Sorry for bothering you, I just… worry I guess…”

 “... It's fine. See you for lunch.”

 “Seeya!”

 As Mango returns to his station, Peppermint closes the steel door again and leans against it.

 Mango is a nice guy, and they've been friends for a while now. Peppermint truly appreciates him so much. But even they had to admit, they could be pretty passionate, even if they were wrong… 

 Then again, there was nothing to imply Sorbet wasn't a dangerous pirate… But those suspicions were useless right now.

 Plus, they would feed Mango's ego even more…

 Just as Peppermint was beginning to walk away from the door to sit on their bed again–

 *KNOCK!* *KNOCK!* *KNOCK!*

 –another series of knocks interrupted them.

 Just as enthusiastic as before, and maybe even louder.

 Must be Mango again… What did he want now?

 Begrudgingly, the mint cookie turns around and pulls open the door again.

 “What is it now Mango– Oh!”

 The pale cookie looks ahead, expecting to find the co-captain of the ship, but instead finds…

 “S-Sorbet?”