ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ ᴍᴏᴠᴇꜱ ꜱʟᴏᴡʟʏ

Just like our father ☆ Mod/Artist: @Lt-but-gay

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[The man tips their head away from the bright light that softly flutters into the room. It's bright, loud, and reminds them of the sterile walls of a hospital. It causes their mouth to pull into a slight scowl]

[Despite the large strands of hair that cover their eyes, the light breaks through and pierces at their only good eye]

"So... Miss... um... Giro!" [The pronunciation is sloppy, and it makes them scowl deeper. It almost makes them forget how he mentions them as 'miss']

"Girão." [They correct, trying not to growl at the man holding a clipboard and pen. They hadn't expected the administrator to hand out personal files so easily. Perhaps it wasn't that personal]

[The interviewer ignores their correction]

"I was asked to gather some information about you. This only has some basics: where you come from, your age, and... your gender is marked out, but I'll make a note of it, ma'am." [The man clicks his pen against the edge of the clipboard]

"Alright! Let's make sure this is updated!" [The interviewer kisses his teeth before he starts. He's twitching nervously from being unable to see their eyes]

"Name?"

"The Mimic." [They huffed]

"No- no," [the interviewer chuckles] "Your real name?"

"Atanacio Luis Girão. Nobody calls me that." [They speak calmly, in short responds that leak subtle threat]

"Okay.." [he scribbles the middle name onto the paper] "How old are you?"

[Mimic thinks for a second] "43." [They settle on]

"And your gender?" [The interviewer seems very proud in thinking they're a woman. Does their stubble not give off a masculine appearance? It must be their voice]

"A man." [The interviewer chokes on his spit but jots it down without murmuring a word]

"H... Height?" [He seems to fumble for the word, must have been reading]

"6'6"."

"Place of origin?" [These questions were starting to bore]

[Mimic stands up, startling the interviewer who had thought their height had been a simple joke. Mimic reaches for their coat and swings it over their shoulders. They approach the small door that led to this small room they were in. Opening it with a rough twist]

"We're done." [They slam the door shut behind them]

☆

[Anything below is ooc!]

Please feel free to interact with this fella!!!

Asks are also appreciated!

The Mimic is Puerto Rican born and speaks a max of 2 languages while learning others on the side. They are fluent in Spanish and English.

Mimic is transmasc but is referred to primarily by they/them. Only on occasion they will be referred to by he/him pronouns by teammates.

They have a high-pitched tone that can give a slight illusion to a woman, especially with the long hair and slim body build

Extras - Their respawning does not create clones of them! Meaning there is only one of them and should stay that way! Are they to die they will respawn with no other body.

They have a small garden that they tend to, it is very small and only harnesses about two or three plants. Primarily flowers. They love flowers!

They transfer between RED and BLU every month because of the inability to be cloned!

Has a small rabbit named Lunita, who is a dark brown rabbit with white ear tips. Treats her like a little child.

Rules!!!

Magic anons allowed! (I actually had to search these up)

No NSFW!

Otherwise, any sort of message/ask is fine!!! Be appropriate with any flirty messages (???)

Basic DNI: Don't be homophobic, racist, if you're against Palestine, known to like problematic creators.

The mod uses tone tags! If you're leaving a ask be sure to add a tone tag if one is needed please!

The mod is 17 years old, don't be a fucking creep. You will be publicly shamed. /srs

☆

Ask tag: #tea talk

In character interaction tag: #a tea party

Reblogs/character reblogs tag: #spilling tea

Open thread/open for interaction: #sugar and milk

Rp response: #natural and bitter

Mod/ooc tag: #a rabbits response

Here's their ref!

It's more in-tune to the idea of if he were an actual tf2 character, but most of this applies to character them as well!

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They were hanging upside down from a tree, something that was made harder thanks to their mask. Their blood ran to their head and they held their mask in place, unwilling to risk letting it fall when someone could stumble across them but also not wanting to admit defeat to gravity.

They were trying to sort through their thoughts, usually they'd climb a tall building or something to clear their mind, but that wasn't an option right now, so they took one out of Spring's book and did this instead.

Of course, Spring didn't have to worry about the blood rushing to her head like they did, so it was arguable if they were actually getting anywhere.

It was strange. Everything felt lively, yet quiet. Things were definitely happening, but never where they were, and if anything big was happening, clearly no one felt the need to include them or ask for their help.

And that was fine.

That was what they told themselves, anyway. They had always intended to leave distance between them and the rest of the team. It was better that way, no one really needed to know them. Sure, V had accepted them, but there was no saying if anyone else would.

That logic didn't hold up as well as it used to. Not after everything that had happened, from the bots showing up to everything that was Halloween and so on.

They swung slightly back and forth, deep in thought. Honestly, they were distracted by their own thoughts and probably a bit too easy to sneak up on.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic wasn't the best known for being in the right place at the right time.]

[They weren't fresh to their team nor were they there from the beginning. They were just an addition that caught the attention of some eyes when they'd gotten too clumsy in their killing spree. They weren't close to anyone, they kept as far as they could. After all, this was just work, who would get close to their coworkers?] 

[It was common for them to drift off, to wander around and get themselves in trouble because it was all they knew. Aside from a boiling anger that had finally settled into a soft simmer after so many years of its roar.]

[For once Mimic could say they could think straight, something they hadn't felt they could say in so many countless years.]

[They come to their senses when the wind gently brushes their coat, jostling it as they lift their head from the floor they stared at. They blinked their eyes, adjusting to their surroundings as they stood still. Their boots rocked awkwardly on the floor as they clasped their hands in front of them in form of entertainment.] 

[Clap!]

[They flinch at the very sound of their hands, too used to the quiet atmosphere of their mind. It snapped them to their senses, coming to the sense that they weren't alone.]

[There was a tree and among it a person. Person? Yes. Or maybe not. Was that a mask? Mimic squints their eyes, not gaining much from it considering they were blind in one and their hair covered too much. They slowly unclasp their hands, lifting one to their face to push away a tuft of hair. A green eye peered from between the tufts, squinted as if it would help.]

[They aren't sure they should announce their presence, not sure who it was that stood in front of them.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

Fortunately, there was no need to announce their presence. The clap caught their attention just fine.

They definitely didn't fall out of the tree in their surprise. It was a calculated drop, if you had to know.

"By those-" They started, lifting themselves up and fixing their mask, which had gone askew in their descent. They paused at the unfamiliar face before getting up and brushing themselves off. "Guess that's what I get for not paying attention." They joke weakly.

"Uh- I don't think we've met before?" They mentally kicked themselves, it sounded more like a question than a statement. Introductions always felt so awkward. They pushed on regardless, giving their hood a tug to make sure it was covering them properly. "I'm the Shapeshifter, but that can be a mouthful, so just Shapes or Shifty works fine."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were startled, dropping their hand as the person fell.] "Oh!" [Was all they could pathetically muster in a moment of alarm. Ah, that was a rough tumble!]

[They stared at the unfamiliar mask, unsure they'd met the other person. They could only wonder if it was a merc, there seemed to be so many of them, and many they had yet to meet. The weak attempt at a joke has an awkward smile climbing up their lips.]

"I don't think we have." [They reply, feeling a chuckle follow light on their tongue. It wasn't a mocking laugh, it felt as if they did it to alleviate any awkward tension in the air.] "It's a pleasure to meet you Shapeshifter," [They pause for a second in thought.] "Shifty." [They bite at the nickname, giving it a taste before deciding it wasn't something they could roll with. Nicknames have never been their thing.]

[With a bad taste of the nickname on their tongue they quickly correct themselves.] "Shapeshifter."

[They looked down at the other, clasping their hands in front of them once again but this time gently. Skin pressing against skin but no sound, gentle and thought out. They press their weight into the heels of their boots, thoughtfully humming.] "I'm the Mimic, Mimic or Mi is just fine." [The nickname tumbles awkwardly from their mouth, it was clear nobody called them that. It was a clumsy attempt at mimicking the context of Shapeshifter's sentence.]

[They feel obligated to ask if the other was okay, they were after all the cause of Shapeshifter's fall and to say they didn't feel the slightest bit guilty about it would be a mouthful of lies.] "Are you alright? You took quite a fall."

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They make the decision to pointedly ignore their tumble, a quiet laugh escapes them at their correction, finding some humor in the clear decision that was made in just repeating their name. They nod as Mimic introduced themselves, taking note of how they stumble over the short nickname. "Mimic, got it."

They then scratched the back of their neck. Gloves against hood, fabric against fabric. Not an inch of exposed skin. " 'nd yeah, I'm fine. That was far from the worst fall I've taken. Might end up with a bruise or two at worst." They shrug, quickly attempting to dodge any concern. The last thing they wanted was to have to visit Medic. Especially for something so minor.

"Oh! Uh- pronouns? I'm fine with anything, myself, but get they/them most often." They didn't interact with enough of the others to know if they actually remembered to ask about their pronouns when first introducing themselves, but they'd like to think they did.

They could swear they used to be better at this kind of thing, but they could be wrong.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They seemed to move past their little tumble of nicknames in favor of nodding their head at the mention of their name, swinging on the balls of their feet as they inhaled softly. They swing their clasped hands in front of them quietly, seeming similar to a child waiting for a treat. Swinging their feet and arms in childlike manners.]

[Not overly exaggerated but it seemed like a motion they did to relieve stress. Their shoulders were slightly tensed and they had just a slight awkward swing. Their pose made it difficult to swing on their boots but they seemed to manage in favor of not standing still like a tree.]

"I can only assume you've gotten worse." [They made a general motion towards the mask that obscured their vision of Shapeshifter's face. They had a general assumption that the other was a merc just like them, if not then what sane man would wear a mask? They're polite enough not to bring it up.] "This line of work will have you sore by merely getting out of bed."

[They wave a hand lazily as they speak, they are somewhat expressive considering their eyes give no portal to their emotions.]

[Their voice could be described as blunt, there wasn't any real hint of emotion behind it. There was an accent to it however, some words were slurred, and 'r's seemed to pop just slightly. The roll of their tongue with every word that leaves their mouth.]

"I'm glad you're alright." [They seemed to realize that it was only polite to say that otherwise they wouldn't have said it and went along with just talking.] "Oh! Pro…nouns?" [The word slips out in a slurred confusion. Out of all the things they've been asked they can't say they've heard that before and despite not having their eyes visible the crinkles on their face showed that their brows had furrowed.]

"Ah!" [They seemed to brighten as the other brought up their pronouns.]

"Well then, I am a man and many refer to me as such." [They start with a tilt of their head, moving their hands to their chest.] "But I do use they/them as well!" [That seemed to be the first genuine spike in their tone. It sounded like they were happy and with a smile on their face perhaps that was it.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They, on the other hand, stood mostly still outside of occasional exaggerated movements likely to make up for the lack of visible facial expressions. Waving a hand here or there, slumping their shoulders, anything that helped convey their emotions was on the table.

It looked like despite being completely covered from head to toe, they actually wanted to be understood. How odd.

"The mask's a part of my uniform, which is a little funny since you never see it when I'm actually on the field." They muse. "If I'm out there, it's never as myself."

Their hands slip into the pockets of their hoodie and their shoulders seem to relax a bit, a little more comfortable now. "So he/him and they/them? Noted." They nod.

They pause, considering and weighing their options for a moment. "So, mind if I ask what brings you out here?"

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Their hands swung to the side as they brought up their pronouns, seeming delighted that someone else had the decency to know to ask. It wasn't very common that people did, it wasn't brought up from what they noticed. They tipped their weight forward, standing on the toes of their boots before swinging back slowly.]

[Shapeshifter was a nice change of pace from their previous interactions. One not being so pleasant and the other being simply... Strange. Although strange seemed to be a part of this job.]

[They quite like this person, from what they were experiencing now. Of course that could be bound for change.]

[They can't say they were blind to Shapeshifter's attempts at being understood. For a person who was covered from head to toe, you would expect them to be well... Mysterious. And yes, Shapeshifter was mysterious in some way but it didn't appear as if that was their goal. Mimic picked up on this, being surrounded by men who were both open and closed about themselves they tended to know the difference.]

[They were curious but they didn't pry. Unlike some members of their team, they were rather respectful, polite, and formal. At least in the presence of a stranger.]

"Shapeshifter" [They mimic at their sentence 'never as myself'.] "That makes sense." [They vocalize before moving past that issue in favor of other conversation topics. Work clearly wasn't their best conversation subject.]

[While speaking they must have stopped swinging, the action was gradual and barely noticeable until they had stopped completely. They nodded their head politely at the confirmation of their pronouns as they looked around.] "I can't say I know where here is."

[They spin in a circle, inspecting their surroundings before deciding that yes, they had no clue where this was.] "I was in my garden a couple of minutes ago, I must have spaced out when I went to get tea."

[A wanderer was what they were. An unwilling one at that.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

"Couldn't tell you exactly where we are, either, but I can say that I know how to get back." They note lightly, not seeming even the slightest bit put off by the other's unwilling wandering and instead assuring them that they could both get back fine.

They pause for a second. "Garden, huh?" There's a second where it seems like they might continue, but for one reason or another, their voice dies in their throat and they twist their fingers in the opposite arm's sleeve in annoyance.

Why did talking to people have to be hard? Knowing that they hadn't always been like this only made the situation more annoying for them.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

"I would appreciate being able to get back." [They hummed thoughtfully at the sentence. They were grateful that Shapeshifter wasn't one of those people to ask what they meant by 'spaced out'. It could get annoying repeating the same thing over and over again.]

[Actually, they memorized it from how many times they had to say it.]

['I never really know where I'm going but my legs do. Sometimes it feels like my body and mind are different, like they split apart and my body is seeking my mind out. Only when I come to my senses has my body found my mind.' Normally they told that to whoever would listen, it was both an explanation and also long enough that nobody would willingly bother them again with stupid questions.]

[They might hate questions, now that they think about it.]

"Yes, a garden." [Mimic moved on from that awkward pause where it felt as if Shapeshifter would continue. They weren't alone, talking to people was indeed hard! Mimic was lucky that they knew how to keep a conversation going, however, they never knew how to start one.]

[That was where their conversational skills fell.]

"I can show you to it if you'd like, I have a tree there and I can assure you that you will not fall again. If you'd prefer to continue whatever you were doing before I came along." [They speak lightly, rather fondly. The tension they displayed at first meeting wasn't as present, although it was certainly still there.] "Well... Once you get us out of here?"

[They meant for it to come out as a statement yet their voice squeaked as it came out in a question. Even through their hair, their brows could be described as raised, their mouth pulled into a thin line that creased upwards at the edges just slightly. It was barely visible through their stubble.]

[They were trying to make themselves... Friendly. Sure, in this line of work, they didn't have a reason to make friends or be friendly but it was like an instinct driven into their skin]. 

[To get on the good side of everyone.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

"I think I'd like to see it, assuming I'm not intruding on anything." They note. They doubted Mimic would offer if that were the case, but it felt like the right thing to say. Blame it on the inherent strangeness that nature had where they came from.

When there were forests out there that could stretch on forever and constantly misdirect you, you learned to err on the side of caution. Even when you befriend one such forest.

"Right." They clap, the sound muted by their gloves. "Now, I'm probably gonna look crazy here." Their voice carries some humor, clearly aware of how strange what they're about to do will look.

They turn their head. "South, we're going!"

Nothing happens for a moment, but they don't seem swayed. After a few more seconds of silence, some leaves rustle and something squawks, then a raven flies down and promptly lands on their head.

"Mimic, meet South. Resident mischief maker." They turn back to Mimic. "Also the one that will yell at me if I take a wrong turn."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

"It's peaceful. Much like this place although..." [They think for a second, trying to find the right word. What was the English word again? It was on the tip of their tongue.] "Pequeño, pequeño... pequeñito..." [They murmur the word in a foreign language as if it would remind them of the English word.]

[There were no connections between the English and Spanish versions of it so they opted to make a shrinking motion with their hand.] "Very cramp?" [The sentence comes out in a question once more. Despite so many years surrounded by English-speaking men, they seemed to forget those small details. Small words that weren't in their day-to-day talks. Such as the actual word for 'small'.]

[They drop their hands sheepishly to their sides, deciding that even if their little motion didn't work they were fine with Shapeshifter not knowing. They could figure it out once the two were out of the forest.]

[Mimic only managed to catch onto Shapeshifter's 'South, we're going!' and turned their head to stare at the other. They were thinking about the word small, it was right there and they couldn't figure it out! At first, they assumed they meant they were heading south with Shapeshifter's comment but when Shapeshifter didn't move Mimic just stood there awkwardly. Their brows furrowed because Shapeshifter's body language showed anticipation. Waiting for something. Now the question had to be either, is it a creature or is Shapeshifter insane?]

[Or both?]

[They tensed at the rustle of leaves, realizing they had focused longer on Shapeshifter's sanity rather than paying attention to what they were waiting for. They blinked their eyes as a means to ground themselves, tilting their head to get a look at the raven. So it was an animal!]

[Although a blurry one at that. Mimic lifts a tuft of hair covering their right eye. Squinting slightly to get a good look at the feathery creature.] "Ah! Then we have someone who knows the way!" [They humorously chirp as they drop their hand. With hair constantly obscuring their good eye they didn't have the best vision, hence the action of lifting their hair and squinting when they really wanted to get a look at something.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They had a few guesses about what the word Mimic was missing was, but by the time they thought to speak up, it felt a bit too late.

South cocked his head to the side, similarly, getting a good look at Mimic. When spoken about, the raven shakes himself and fluffs up with what sounds like a pleased honk.

They tap at the raven's feet. "Let's get moving before your ego gets any bigger." They tease, earning a quick peck from the bird before he takes off again.

They wait a moment, watching where South is before nodding and speaking up again. "This way." They wait until they're sure Mimic knows which way they're going before actually starting to walk.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They catch onto the noise of the creature and guess by the tone it was rather pleased. Out of all the animals they've seen as pets they can't say this... crow...? Was a part of it.]

[Crow or a raven? Both were strangely similar and Mimic only had one eye to see through. Did Shapeshifter mention the species? They don't recall them doing so or perhaps they blanked out on it? It wouldn't be the first time.]

[They furrowed their brows slightly, deep in thought that they barely caught onto what Shapeshifter had to say.]

[Shapeshifter talks to the animal the way anyone would with a normal pet. Mimic does the same with Lunita and in some way, there is a familiarity in seeing the two interact. It was making the merc miss their rabbit who quite frankly probably wasn't far. They didn't stray that far, did they?] 

[Either way, they can trust the other to get them back, hopefully. If not the pistol hidden by their coat was also effective.]

[Their good eye watches the blurry bird dart away, vanishing into the vegetation around them. Assuming that was their chance to catch up with the other they drop their gaze to the Shapeshifter and track up to be a step or three behind them. This would ensure they were close but not too close for discomfort.]

[It was to keep track of the other, they'd rather not get lost or perhaps even deeper into the forest than they already were.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

As they walk, they make occasional sounds of affirmation to noises that must've come from South informing them which way to go. There were a few times they considered bringing up some tips about telling the difference between a crow and a raven since they knew it was a common issue, but each time they decided against it.

Eventually, they made it out of the forest and South swooped down and landed on their head again before climbing down to their shoulder to mess with the string to their hoodie for the rest of the short trip.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[The man follows close behind, not uncomfortably close but enough that they could see the other without loosing them. After all, the other... Merc and the bird was their only way out of here. There was an occasional glance behind them out of pure instinct, always expecting something behind them. Years of fighting Spy does that for you.] [Mimic startled a little at the sight of the bird again just as they made a break through the forest. Right back to familiar land. Actually, if Mimic focused enough he could see their garden just at a hills point to the right.] "Thank you," [They don't need to clarify, they're fairly certain the point is there but they still do just in case.] "For getting me out of the forest! Wouldn't have been a pleasant travel on my own." [Although they didn't doubt they'd find their way out, they simply wouldn't while mentally there.] [A hot second of silence as they think. Does the Shapeshifter still want to visit their garden? Should he ask again? Wow, alright, he really doesn't know what to do. Alright! Just suck it up! Worst they can say is no! They motioned towards the right, where he was fairly certain his garden was without having to focus.] "My garden is this way, if you still wish to join me?" [They asked politely, mindful to not force.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

Their hood tightened around their head from South pulling on the string, but they don't seem to make any move to stop the bird. Probably all too used to this kind of behavior. "No problem."

They turn their head to glance in the direction, mostly out of habit before coming to realize that they actually could somewhat see the garden in question. They were still a bit too used to the mesh of their old masks making everything harder to see.

The tradeoff being that now doing anything in the dark was an ordeal.

"If you'll have me, I'd like that." They decide with a small nod.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[The other seemed content in the presence of the bird, a pet that not many liked. What was that saying? A crow symbolized death most of the time but ravens symbolized transformation- smart. A shapeshifter and a raven, a raven made more sense and there was something ironic about that. Joyous.]

[Their steps were slow, calm, and gentle on the surface floor. His hand is up and pointing in a way to lead. A soft 'follow me' sort of thing.] "I would love your presence there, as would my bunny." [They comment gently, and smoothly to keep their anxiety at bay.] 

[It wasn't every day they invited people to their garden. Let alone a stranger whom he had only just met. Perhaps he was putting too much trust because the other was a merc. Something a little silly for someone who was constantly jumping from color to color simply because copies were impossible for them. But to each, their own, within black and white was a complexity of grays.] 

"I hope your friend doesn't mind mine, yes? She is rather... Excitable with new people." [They settle on the words a little cautiously, as if not knowing the meaning of them. Which didn't seem surprising, with his thick accent it was clear that no matter what there would always be some form of stutter in their speech.] 

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They were hanging upside down from a tree, something that was made harder thanks to their mask. Their blood ran to their head and they held their mask in place, unwilling to risk letting it fall when someone could stumble across them but also not wanting to admit defeat to gravity.

They were trying to sort through their thoughts, usually they'd climb a tall building or something to clear their mind, but that wasn't an option right now, so they took one out of Spring's book and did this instead.

Of course, Spring didn't have to worry about the blood rushing to her head like they did, so it was arguable if they were actually getting anywhere.

It was strange. Everything felt lively, yet quiet. Things were definitely happening, but never where they were, and if anything big was happening, clearly no one felt the need to include them or ask for their help.

And that was fine.

That was what they told themselves, anyway. They had always intended to leave distance between them and the rest of the team. It was better that way, no one really needed to know them. Sure, V had accepted them, but there was no saying if anyone else would.

That logic didn't hold up as well as it used to. Not after everything that had happened, from the bots showing up to everything that was Halloween and so on.

They swung slightly back and forth, deep in thought. Honestly, they were distracted by their own thoughts and probably a bit too easy to sneak up on.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic wasn't the best known for being in the right place at the right time.]

[They weren't fresh to their team nor were they there from the beginning. They were just an addition that caught the attention of some eyes when they'd gotten too clumsy in their killing spree. They weren't close to anyone, they kept as far as they could. After all, this was just work, who would get close to their coworkers?] 

[It was common for them to drift off, to wander around and get themselves in trouble because it was all they knew. Aside from a boiling anger that had finally settled into a soft simmer after so many years of its roar.]

[For once Mimic could say they could think straight, something they hadn't felt they could say in so many countless years.]

[They come to their senses when the wind gently brushes their coat, jostling it as they lift their head from the floor they stared at. They blinked their eyes, adjusting to their surroundings as they stood still. Their boots rocked awkwardly on the floor as they clasped their hands in front of them in form of entertainment.] 

[Clap!]

[They flinch at the very sound of their hands, too used to the quiet atmosphere of their mind. It snapped them to their senses, coming to the sense that they weren't alone.]

[There was a tree and among it a person. Person? Yes. Or maybe not. Was that a mask? Mimic squints their eyes, not gaining much from it considering they were blind in one and their hair covered too much. They slowly unclasp their hands, lifting one to their face to push away a tuft of hair. A green eye peered from between the tufts, squinted as if it would help.]

[They aren't sure they should announce their presence, not sure who it was that stood in front of them.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

Fortunately, there was no need to announce their presence. The clap caught their attention just fine.

They definitely didn't fall out of the tree in their surprise. It was a calculated drop, if you had to know.

"By those-" They started, lifting themselves up and fixing their mask, which had gone askew in their descent. They paused at the unfamiliar face before getting up and brushing themselves off. "Guess that's what I get for not paying attention." They joke weakly.

"Uh- I don't think we've met before?" They mentally kicked themselves, it sounded more like a question than a statement. Introductions always felt so awkward. They pushed on regardless, giving their hood a tug to make sure it was covering them properly. "I'm the Shapeshifter, but that can be a mouthful, so just Shapes or Shifty works fine."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were startled, dropping their hand as the person fell.] "Oh!" [Was all they could pathetically muster in a moment of alarm. Ah, that was a rough tumble!]

[They stared at the unfamiliar mask, unsure they'd met the other person. They could only wonder if it was a merc, there seemed to be so many of them, and many they had yet to meet. The weak attempt at a joke has an awkward smile climbing up their lips.]

"I don't think we have." [They reply, feeling a chuckle follow light on their tongue. It wasn't a mocking laugh, it felt as if they did it to alleviate any awkward tension in the air.] "It's a pleasure to meet you Shapeshifter," [They pause for a second in thought.] "Shifty." [They bite at the nickname, giving it a taste before deciding it wasn't something they could roll with. Nicknames have never been their thing.]

[With a bad taste of the nickname on their tongue they quickly correct themselves.] "Shapeshifter."

[They looked down at the other, clasping their hands in front of them once again but this time gently. Skin pressing against skin but no sound, gentle and thought out. They press their weight into the heels of their boots, thoughtfully humming.] "I'm the Mimic, Mimic or Mi is just fine." [The nickname tumbles awkwardly from their mouth, it was clear nobody called them that. It was a clumsy attempt at mimicking the context of Shapeshifter's sentence.]

[They feel obligated to ask if the other was okay, they were after all the cause of Shapeshifter's fall and to say they didn't feel the slightest bit guilty about it would be a mouthful of lies.] "Are you alright? You took quite a fall."

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They make the decision to pointedly ignore their tumble, a quiet laugh escapes them at their correction, finding some humor in the clear decision that was made in just repeating their name. They nod as Mimic introduced themselves, taking note of how they stumble over the short nickname. "Mimic, got it."

They then scratched the back of their neck. Gloves against hood, fabric against fabric. Not an inch of exposed skin. " 'nd yeah, I'm fine. That was far from the worst fall I've taken. Might end up with a bruise or two at worst." They shrug, quickly attempting to dodge any concern. The last thing they wanted was to have to visit Medic. Especially for something so minor.

"Oh! Uh- pronouns? I'm fine with anything, myself, but get they/them most often." They didn't interact with enough of the others to know if they actually remembered to ask about their pronouns when first introducing themselves, but they'd like to think they did.

They could swear they used to be better at this kind of thing, but they could be wrong.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They seemed to move past their little tumble of nicknames in favor of nodding their head at the mention of their name, swinging on the balls of their feet as they inhaled softly. They swing their clasped hands in front of them quietly, seeming similar to a child waiting for a treat. Swinging their feet and arms in childlike manners.]

[Not overly exaggerated but it seemed like a motion they did to relieve stress. Their shoulders were slightly tensed and they had just a slight awkward swing. Their pose made it difficult to swing on their boots but they seemed to manage in favor of not standing still like a tree.]

"I can only assume you've gotten worse." [They made a general motion towards the mask that obscured their vision of Shapeshifter's face. They had a general assumption that the other was a merc just like them, if not then what sane man would wear a mask? They're polite enough not to bring it up.] "This line of work will have you sore by merely getting out of bed."

[They wave a hand lazily as they speak, they are somewhat expressive considering their eyes give no portal to their emotions.]

[Their voice could be described as blunt, there wasn't any real hint of emotion behind it. There was an accent to it however, some words were slurred, and 'r's seemed to pop just slightly. The roll of their tongue with every word that leaves their mouth.]

"I'm glad you're alright." [They seemed to realize that it was only polite to say that otherwise they wouldn't have said it and went along with just talking.] "Oh! Pro…nouns?" [The word slips out in a slurred confusion. Out of all the things they've been asked they can't say they've heard that before and despite not having their eyes visible the crinkles on their face showed that their brows had furrowed.]

"Ah!" [They seemed to brighten as the other brought up their pronouns.]

"Well then, I am a man and many refer to me as such." [They start with a tilt of their head, moving their hands to their chest.] "But I do use they/them as well!" [That seemed to be the first genuine spike in their tone. It sounded like they were happy and with a smile on their face perhaps that was it.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They, on the other hand, stood mostly still outside of occasional exaggerated movements likely to make up for the lack of visible facial expressions. Waving a hand here or there, slumping their shoulders, anything that helped convey their emotions was on the table.

It looked like despite being completely covered from head to toe, they actually wanted to be understood. How odd.

"The mask's a part of my uniform, which is a little funny since you never see it when I'm actually on the field." They muse. "If I'm out there, it's never as myself."

Their hands slip into the pockets of their hoodie and their shoulders seem to relax a bit, a little more comfortable now. "So he/him and they/them? Noted." They nod.

They pause, considering and weighing their options for a moment. "So, mind if I ask what brings you out here?"

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Their hands swung to the side as they brought up their pronouns, seeming delighted that someone else had the decency to know to ask. It wasn't very common that people did, it wasn't brought up from what they noticed. They tipped their weight forward, standing on the toes of their boots before swinging back slowly.]

[Shapeshifter was a nice change of pace from their previous interactions. One not being so pleasant and the other being simply... Strange. Although strange seemed to be a part of this job.]

[They quite like this person, from what they were experiencing now. Of course that could be bound for change.]

[They can't say they were blind to Shapeshifter's attempts at being understood. For a person who was covered from head to toe, you would expect them to be well... Mysterious. And yes, Shapeshifter was mysterious in some way but it didn't appear as if that was their goal. Mimic picked up on this, being surrounded by men who were both open and closed about themselves they tended to know the difference.]

[They were curious but they didn't pry. Unlike some members of their team, they were rather respectful, polite, and formal. At least in the presence of a stranger.]

"Shapeshifter" [They mimic at their sentence 'never as myself'.] "That makes sense." [They vocalize before moving past that issue in favor of other conversation topics. Work clearly wasn't their best conversation subject.]

[While speaking they must have stopped swinging, the action was gradual and barely noticeable until they had stopped completely. They nodded their head politely at the confirmation of their pronouns as they looked around.] "I can't say I know where here is."

[They spin in a circle, inspecting their surroundings before deciding that yes, they had no clue where this was.] "I was in my garden a couple of minutes ago, I must have spaced out when I went to get tea."

[A wanderer was what they were. An unwilling one at that.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

"Couldn't tell you exactly where we are, either, but I can say that I know how to get back." They note lightly, not seeming even the slightest bit put off by the other's unwilling wandering and instead assuring them that they could both get back fine.

They pause for a second. "Garden, huh?" There's a second where it seems like they might continue, but for one reason or another, their voice dies in their throat and they twist their fingers in the opposite arm's sleeve in annoyance.

Why did talking to people have to be hard? Knowing that they hadn't always been like this only made the situation more annoying for them.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

"I would appreciate being able to get back." [They hummed thoughtfully at the sentence. They were grateful that Shapeshifter wasn't one of those people to ask what they meant by 'spaced out'. It could get annoying repeating the same thing over and over again.]

[Actually, they memorized it from how many times they had to say it.]

['I never really know where I'm going but my legs do. Sometimes it feels like my body and mind are different, like they split apart and my body is seeking my mind out. Only when I come to my senses has my body found my mind.' Normally they told that to whoever would listen, it was both an explanation and also long enough that nobody would willingly bother them again with stupid questions.]

[They might hate questions, now that they think about it.]

"Yes, a garden." [Mimic moved on from that awkward pause where it felt as if Shapeshifter would continue. They weren't alone, talking to people was indeed hard! Mimic was lucky that they knew how to keep a conversation going, however, they never knew how to start one.]

[That was where their conversational skills fell.]

"I can show you to it if you'd like, I have a tree there and I can assure you that you will not fall again. If you'd prefer to continue whatever you were doing before I came along." [They speak lightly, rather fondly. The tension they displayed at first meeting wasn't as present, although it was certainly still there.] "Well... Once you get us out of here?"

[They meant for it to come out as a statement yet their voice squeaked as it came out in a question. Even through their hair, their brows could be described as raised, their mouth pulled into a thin line that creased upwards at the edges just slightly. It was barely visible through their stubble.]

[They were trying to make themselves... Friendly. Sure, in this line of work, they didn't have a reason to make friends or be friendly but it was like an instinct driven into their skin]. 

[To get on the good side of everyone.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

"I think I'd like to see it, assuming I'm not intruding on anything." They note. They doubted Mimic would offer if that were the case, but it felt like the right thing to say. Blame it on the inherent strangeness that nature had where they came from.

When there were forests out there that could stretch on forever and constantly misdirect you, you learned to err on the side of caution. Even when you befriend one such forest.

"Right." They clap, the sound muted by their gloves. "Now, I'm probably gonna look crazy here." Their voice carries some humor, clearly aware of how strange what they're about to do will look.

They turn their head. "South, we're going!"

Nothing happens for a moment, but they don't seem swayed. After a few more seconds of silence, some leaves rustle and something squawks, then a raven flies down and promptly lands on their head.

"Mimic, meet South. Resident mischief maker." They turn back to Mimic. "Also the one that will yell at me if I take a wrong turn."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

"It's peaceful. Much like this place although..." [They think for a second, trying to find the right word. What was the English word again? It was on the tip of their tongue.] "Pequeño, pequeño... pequeñito..." [They murmur the word in a foreign language as if it would remind them of the English word.]

[There were no connections between the English and Spanish versions of it so they opted to make a shrinking motion with their hand.] "Very cramp?" [The sentence comes out in a question once more. Despite so many years surrounded by English-speaking men, they seemed to forget those small details. Small words that weren't in their day-to-day talks. Such as the actual word for 'small'.]

[They drop their hands sheepishly to their sides, deciding that even if their little motion didn't work they were fine with Shapeshifter not knowing. They could figure it out once the two were out of the forest.]

[Mimic only managed to catch onto Shapeshifter's 'South, we're going!' and turned their head to stare at the other. They were thinking about the word small, it was right there and they couldn't figure it out! At first, they assumed they meant they were heading south with Shapeshifter's comment but when Shapeshifter didn't move Mimic just stood there awkwardly. Their brows furrowed because Shapeshifter's body language showed anticipation. Waiting for something. Now the question had to be either, is it a creature or is Shapeshifter insane?]

[Or both?]

[They tensed at the rustle of leaves, realizing they had focused longer on Shapeshifter's sanity rather than paying attention to what they were waiting for. They blinked their eyes as a means to ground themselves, tilting their head to get a look at the raven. So it was an animal!]

[Although a blurry one at that. Mimic lifts a tuft of hair covering their right eye. Squinting slightly to get a good look at the feathery creature.] "Ah! Then we have someone who knows the way!" [They humorously chirp as they drop their hand. With hair constantly obscuring their good eye they didn't have the best vision, hence the action of lifting their hair and squinting when they really wanted to get a look at something.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They had a few guesses about what the word Mimic was missing was, but by the time they thought to speak up, it felt a bit too late.

South cocked his head to the side, similarly, getting a good look at Mimic. When spoken about, the raven shakes himself and fluffs up with what sounds like a pleased honk.

They tap at the raven's feet. "Let's get moving before your ego gets any bigger." They tease, earning a quick peck from the bird before he takes off again.

They wait a moment, watching where South is before nodding and speaking up again. "This way." They wait until they're sure Mimic knows which way they're going before actually starting to walk.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They catch onto the noise of the creature and guess by the tone it was rather pleased. Out of all the animals they've seen as pets they can't say this... crow...? Was a part of it.]

[Crow or a raven? Both were strangely similar and Mimic only had one eye to see through. Did Shapeshifter mention the species? They don't recall them doing so or perhaps they blanked out on it? It wouldn't be the first time.]

[They furrowed their brows slightly, deep in thought that they barely caught onto what Shapeshifter had to say.]

[Shapeshifter talks to the animal the way anyone would with a normal pet. Mimic does the same with Lunita and in some way, there is a familiarity in seeing the two interact. It was making the merc miss their rabbit who quite frankly probably wasn't far. They didn't stray that far, did they?] 

[Either way, they can trust the other to get them back, hopefully. If not the pistol hidden by their coat was also effective.]

[Their good eye watches the blurry bird dart away, vanishing into the vegetation around them. Assuming that was their chance to catch up with the other they drop their gaze to the Shapeshifter and track up to be a step or three behind them. This would ensure they were close but not too close for discomfort.]

[It was to keep track of the other, they'd rather not get lost or perhaps even deeper into the forest than they already were.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

As they walk, they make occasional sounds of affirmation to noises that must've come from South informing them which way to go. There were a few times they considered bringing up some tips about telling the difference between a crow and a raven since they knew it was a common issue, but each time they decided against it.

Eventually, they made it out of the forest and South swooped down and landed on their head again before climbing down to their shoulder to mess with the string to their hoodie for the rest of the short trip.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[The man follows close behind, not uncomfortably close but enough that they could see the other without loosing them. After all, the other... Merc and the bird was their only way out of here. There was an occasional glance behind them out of pure instinct, always expecting something behind them. Years of fighting Spy does that for you.] [Mimic startled a little at the sight of the bird again just as they made a break through the forest. Right back to familiar land. Actually, if Mimic focused enough he could see their garden just at a hills point to the right.] "Thank you," [They don't need to clarify, they're fairly certain the point is there but they still do just in case.] "For getting me out of the forest! Wouldn't have been a pleasant travel on my own." [Although they didn't doubt they'd find their way out, they simply wouldn't while mentally there.] [A hot second of silence as they think. Does the Shapeshifter still want to visit their garden? Should he ask again? Wow, alright, he really doesn't know what to do. Alright! Just suck it up! Worst they can say is no! They motioned towards the right, where he was fairly certain his garden was without having to focus.] "My garden is this way, if you still wish to join me?" [They asked politely, mindful to not force.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They were hanging upside down from a tree, something that was made harder thanks to their mask. Their blood ran to their head and they held their mask in place, unwilling to risk letting it fall when someone could stumble across them but also not wanting to admit defeat to gravity.

They were trying to sort through their thoughts, usually they'd climb a tall building or something to clear their mind, but that wasn't an option right now, so they took one out of Spring's book and did this instead.

Of course, Spring didn't have to worry about the blood rushing to her head like they did, so it was arguable if they were actually getting anywhere.

It was strange. Everything felt lively, yet quiet. Things were definitely happening, but never where they were, and if anything big was happening, clearly no one felt the need to include them or ask for their help.

And that was fine.

That was what they told themselves, anyway. They had always intended to leave distance between them and the rest of the team. It was better that way, no one really needed to know them. Sure, V had accepted them, but there was no saying if anyone else would.

That logic didn't hold up as well as it used to. Not after everything that had happened, from the bots showing up to everything that was Halloween and so on.

They swung slightly back and forth, deep in thought. Honestly, they were distracted by their own thoughts and probably a bit too easy to sneak up on.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic wasn't the best known for being in the right place at the right time.]

[They weren't fresh to their team nor were they there from the beginning. They were just an addition that caught the attention of some eyes when they'd gotten too clumsy in their killing spree. They weren't close to anyone, they kept as far as they could. After all, this was just work, who would get close to their coworkers?] 

[It was common for them to drift off, to wander around and get themselves in trouble because it was all they knew. Aside from a boiling anger that had finally settled into a soft simmer after so many years of its roar.]

[For once Mimic could say they could think straight, something they hadn't felt they could say in so many countless years.]

[They come to their senses when the wind gently brushes their coat, jostling it as they lift their head from the floor they stared at. They blinked their eyes, adjusting to their surroundings as they stood still. Their boots rocked awkwardly on the floor as they clasped their hands in front of them in form of entertainment.] 

[Clap!]

[They flinch at the very sound of their hands, too used to the quiet atmosphere of their mind. It snapped them to their senses, coming to the sense that they weren't alone.]

[There was a tree and among it a person. Person? Yes. Or maybe not. Was that a mask? Mimic squints their eyes, not gaining much from it considering they were blind in one and their hair covered too much. They slowly unclasp their hands, lifting one to their face to push away a tuft of hair. A green eye peered from between the tufts, squinted as if it would help.]

[They aren't sure they should announce their presence, not sure who it was that stood in front of them.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

Fortunately, there was no need to announce their presence. The clap caught their attention just fine.

They definitely didn't fall out of the tree in their surprise. It was a calculated drop, if you had to know.

"By those-" They started, lifting themselves up and fixing their mask, which had gone askew in their descent. They paused at the unfamiliar face before getting up and brushing themselves off. "Guess that's what I get for not paying attention." They joke weakly.

"Uh- I don't think we've met before?" They mentally kicked themselves, it sounded more like a question than a statement. Introductions always felt so awkward. They pushed on regardless, giving their hood a tug to make sure it was covering them properly. "I'm the Shapeshifter, but that can be a mouthful, so just Shapes or Shifty works fine."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were startled, dropping their hand as the person fell.] "Oh!" [Was all they could pathetically muster in a moment of alarm. Ah, that was a rough tumble!]

[They stared at the unfamiliar mask, unsure they'd met the other person. They could only wonder if it was a merc, there seemed to be so many of them, and many they had yet to meet. The weak attempt at a joke has an awkward smile climbing up their lips.]

"I don't think we have." [They reply, feeling a chuckle follow light on their tongue. It wasn't a mocking laugh, it felt as if they did it to alleviate any awkward tension in the air.] "It's a pleasure to meet you Shapeshifter," [They pause for a second in thought.] "Shifty." [They bite at the nickname, giving it a taste before deciding it wasn't something they could roll with. Nicknames have never been their thing.]

[With a bad taste of the nickname on their tongue they quickly correct themselves.] "Shapeshifter."

[They looked down at the other, clasping their hands in front of them once again but this time gently. Skin pressing against skin but no sound, gentle and thought out. They press their weight into the heels of their boots, thoughtfully humming.] "I'm the Mimic, Mimic or Mi is just fine." [The nickname tumbles awkwardly from their mouth, it was clear nobody called them that. It was a clumsy attempt at mimicking the context of Shapeshifter's sentence.]

[They feel obligated to ask if the other was okay, they were after all the cause of Shapeshifter's fall and to say they didn't feel the slightest bit guilty about it would be a mouthful of lies.] "Are you alright? You took quite a fall."

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They make the decision to pointedly ignore their tumble, a quiet laugh escapes them at their correction, finding some humor in the clear decision that was made in just repeating their name. They nod as Mimic introduced themselves, taking note of how they stumble over the short nickname. "Mimic, got it."

They then scratched the back of their neck. Gloves against hood, fabric against fabric. Not an inch of exposed skin. " 'nd yeah, I'm fine. That was far from the worst fall I've taken. Might end up with a bruise or two at worst." They shrug, quickly attempting to dodge any concern. The last thing they wanted was to have to visit Medic. Especially for something so minor.

"Oh! Uh- pronouns? I'm fine with anything, myself, but get they/them most often." They didn't interact with enough of the others to know if they actually remembered to ask about their pronouns when first introducing themselves, but they'd like to think they did.

They could swear they used to be better at this kind of thing, but they could be wrong.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They seemed to move past their little tumble of nicknames in favor of nodding their head at the mention of their name, swinging on the balls of their feet as they inhaled softly. They swing their clasped hands in front of them quietly, seeming similar to a child waiting for a treat. Swinging their feet and arms in childlike manners.]

[Not overly exaggerated but it seemed like a motion they did to relieve stress. Their shoulders were slightly tensed and they had just a slight awkward swing. Their pose made it difficult to swing on their boots but they seemed to manage in favor of not standing still like a tree.]

"I can only assume you've gotten worse." [They made a general motion towards the mask that obscured their vision of Shapeshifter's face. They had a general assumption that the other was a merc just like them, if not then what sane man would wear a mask? They're polite enough not to bring it up.] "This line of work will have you sore by merely getting out of bed."

[They wave a hand lazily as they speak, they are somewhat expressive considering their eyes give no portal to their emotions.]

[Their voice could be described as blunt, there wasn't any real hint of emotion behind it. There was an accent to it however, some words were slurred, and 'r's seemed to pop just slightly. The roll of their tongue with every word that leaves their mouth.]

"I'm glad you're alright." [They seemed to realize that it was only polite to say that otherwise they wouldn't have said it and went along with just talking.] "Oh! Pro…nouns?" [The word slips out in a slurred confusion. Out of all the things they've been asked they can't say they've heard that before and despite not having their eyes visible the crinkles on their face showed that their brows had furrowed.]

"Ah!" [They seemed to brighten as the other brought up their pronouns.]

"Well then, I am a man and many refer to me as such." [They start with a tilt of their head, moving their hands to their chest.] "But I do use they/them as well!" [That seemed to be the first genuine spike in their tone. It sounded like they were happy and with a smile on their face perhaps that was it.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They, on the other hand, stood mostly still outside of occasional exaggerated movements likely to make up for the lack of visible facial expressions. Waving a hand here or there, slumping their shoulders, anything that helped convey their emotions was on the table.

It looked like despite being completely covered from head to toe, they actually wanted to be understood. How odd.

"The mask's a part of my uniform, which is a little funny since you never see it when I'm actually on the field." They muse. "If I'm out there, it's never as myself."

Their hands slip into the pockets of their hoodie and their shoulders seem to relax a bit, a little more comfortable now. "So he/him and they/them? Noted." They nod.

They pause, considering and weighing their options for a moment. "So, mind if I ask what brings you out here?"

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Their hands swung to the side as they brought up their pronouns, seeming delighted that someone else had the decency to know to ask. It wasn't very common that people did, it wasn't brought up from what they noticed. They tipped their weight forward, standing on the toes of their boots before swinging back slowly.]

[Shapeshifter was a nice change of pace from their previous interactions. One not being so pleasant and the other being simply... Strange. Although strange seemed to be a part of this job.]

[They quite like this person, from what they were experiencing now. Of course that could be bound for change.]

[They can't say they were blind to Shapeshifter's attempts at being understood. For a person who was covered from head to toe, you would expect them to be well... Mysterious. And yes, Shapeshifter was mysterious in some way but it didn't appear as if that was their goal. Mimic picked up on this, being surrounded by men who were both open and closed about themselves they tended to know the difference.]

[They were curious but they didn't pry. Unlike some members of their team, they were rather respectful, polite, and formal. At least in the presence of a stranger.]

"Shapeshifter" [They mimic at their sentence 'never as myself'.] "That makes sense." [They vocalize before moving past that issue in favor of other conversation topics. Work clearly wasn't their best conversation subject.]

[While speaking they must have stopped swinging, the action was gradual and barely noticeable until they had stopped completely. They nodded their head politely at the confirmation of their pronouns as they looked around.] "I can't say I know where here is."

[They spin in a circle, inspecting their surroundings before deciding that yes, they had no clue where this was.] "I was in my garden a couple of minutes ago, I must have spaced out when I went to get tea."

[A wanderer was what they were. An unwilling one at that.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

"Couldn't tell you exactly where we are, either, but I can say that I know how to get back." They note lightly, not seeming even the slightest bit put off by the other's unwilling wandering and instead assuring them that they could both get back fine.

They pause for a second. "Garden, huh?" There's a second where it seems like they might continue, but for one reason or another, their voice dies in their throat and they twist their fingers in the opposite arm's sleeve in annoyance.

Why did talking to people have to be hard? Knowing that they hadn't always been like this only made the situation more annoying for them.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

"I would appreciate being able to get back." [They hummed thoughtfully at the sentence. They were grateful that Shapeshifter wasn't one of those people to ask what they meant by 'spaced out'. It could get annoying repeating the same thing over and over again.]

[Actually, they memorized it from how many times they had to say it.]

['I never really know where I'm going but my legs do. Sometimes it feels like my body and mind are different, like they split apart and my body is seeking my mind out. Only when I come to my senses has my body found my mind.' Normally they told that to whoever would listen, it was both an explanation and also long enough that nobody would willingly bother them again with stupid questions.]

[They might hate questions, now that they think about it.]

"Yes, a garden." [Mimic moved on from that awkward pause where it felt as if Shapeshifter would continue. They weren't alone, talking to people was indeed hard! Mimic was lucky that they knew how to keep a conversation going, however, they never knew how to start one.]

[That was where their conversational skills fell.]

"I can show you to it if you'd like, I have a tree there and I can assure you that you will not fall again. If you'd prefer to continue whatever you were doing before I came along." [They speak lightly, rather fondly. The tension they displayed at first meeting wasn't as present, although it was certainly still there.] "Well... Once you get us out of here?"

[They meant for it to come out as a statement yet their voice squeaked as it came out in a question. Even through their hair, their brows could be described as raised, their mouth pulled into a thin line that creased upwards at the edges just slightly. It was barely visible through their stubble.]

[They were trying to make themselves... Friendly. Sure, in this line of work, they didn't have a reason to make friends or be friendly but it was like an instinct driven into their skin]. 

[To get on the good side of everyone.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

"I think I'd like to see it, assuming I'm not intruding on anything." They note. They doubted Mimic would offer if that were the case, but it felt like the right thing to say. Blame it on the inherent strangeness that nature had where they came from.

When there were forests out there that could stretch on forever and constantly misdirect you, you learned to err on the side of caution. Even when you befriend one such forest.

"Right." They clap, the sound muted by their gloves. "Now, I'm probably gonna look crazy here." Their voice carries some humor, clearly aware of how strange what they're about to do will look.

They turn their head. "South, we're going!"

Nothing happens for a moment, but they don't seem swayed. After a few more seconds of silence, some leaves rustle and something squawks, then a raven flies down and promptly lands on their head.

"Mimic, meet South. Resident mischief maker." They turn back to Mimic. "Also the one that will yell at me if I take a wrong turn."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

"It's peaceful. Much like this place although..." [They think for a second, trying to find the right word. What was the English word again? It was on the tip of their tongue.] "Pequeño, pequeño... pequeñito..." [They murmur the word in a foreign language as if it would remind them of the English word.]

[There were no connections between the English and Spanish versions of it so they opted to make a shrinking motion with their hand.] "Very cramp?" [The sentence comes out in a question once more. Despite so many years surrounded by English-speaking men, they seemed to forget those small details. Small words that weren't in their day-to-day talks. Such as the actual word for 'small'.]

[They drop their hands sheepishly to their sides, deciding that even if their little motion didn't work they were fine with Shapeshifter not knowing. They could figure it out once the two were out of the forest.]

[Mimic only managed to catch onto Shapeshifter's 'South, we're going!' and turned their head to stare at the other. They were thinking about the word small, it was right there and they couldn't figure it out! At first, they assumed they meant they were heading south with Shapeshifter's comment but when Shapeshifter didn't move Mimic just stood there awkwardly. Their brows furrowed because Shapeshifter's body language showed anticipation. Waiting for something. Now the question had to be either, is it a creature or is Shapeshifter insane?]

[Or both?]

[They tensed at the rustle of leaves, realizing they had focused longer on Shapeshifter's sanity rather than paying attention to what they were waiting for. They blinked their eyes as a means to ground themselves, tilting their head to get a look at the raven. So it was an animal!]

[Although a blurry one at that. Mimic lifts a tuft of hair covering their right eye. Squinting slightly to get a good look at the feathery creature.] "Ah! Then we have someone who knows the way!" [They humorously chirp as they drop their hand. With hair constantly obscuring their good eye they didn't have the best vision, hence the action of lifting their hair and squinting when they really wanted to get a look at something.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They had a few guesses about what the word Mimic was missing was, but by the time they thought to speak up, it felt a bit too late.

South cocked his head to the side, similarly, getting a good look at Mimic. When spoken about, the raven shakes himself and fluffs up with what sounds like a pleased honk.

They tap at the raven's feet. "Let's get moving before your ego gets any bigger." They tease, earning a quick peck from the bird before he takes off again.

They wait a moment, watching where South is before nodding and speaking up again. "This way." They wait until they're sure Mimic knows which way they're going before actually starting to walk.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They catch onto the noise of the creature and guess by the tone it was rather pleased. Out of all the animals they've seen as pets they can't say this... crow...? Was a part of it.]

[Crow or a raven? Both were strangely similar and Mimic only had one eye to see through. Did Shapeshifter mention the species? They don't recall them doing so or perhaps they blanked out on it? It wouldn't be the first time.]

[They furrowed their brows slightly, deep in thought that they barely caught onto what Shapeshifter had to say.]

[Shapeshifter talks to the animal the way anyone would with a normal pet. Mimic does the same with Lunita and in some way, there is a familiarity in seeing the two interact. It was making the merc miss their rabbit who quite frankly probably wasn't far. They didn't stray that far, did they?] 

[Either way, they can trust the other to get them back, hopefully. If not the pistol hidden by their coat was also effective.]

[Their good eye watches the blurry bird dart away, vanishing into the vegetation around them. Assuming that was their chance to catch up with the other they drop their gaze to the Shapeshifter and track up to be a step or three behind them. This would ensure they were close but not too close for discomfort.]

[It was to keep track of the other, they'd rather not get lost or perhaps even deeper into the forest than they already were.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They were hanging upside down from a tree, something that was made harder thanks to their mask. Their blood ran to their head and they held their mask in place, unwilling to risk letting it fall when someone could stumble across them but also not wanting to admit defeat to gravity.

They were trying to sort through their thoughts, usually they'd climb a tall building or something to clear their mind, but that wasn't an option right now, so they took one out of Spring's book and did this instead.

Of course, Spring didn't have to worry about the blood rushing to her head like they did, so it was arguable if they were actually getting anywhere.

It was strange. Everything felt lively, yet quiet. Things were definitely happening, but never where they were, and if anything big was happening, clearly no one felt the need to include them or ask for their help.

And that was fine.

That was what they told themselves, anyway. They had always intended to leave distance between them and the rest of the team. It was better that way, no one really needed to know them. Sure, V had accepted them, but there was no saying if anyone else would.

That logic didn't hold up as well as it used to. Not after everything that had happened, from the bots showing up to everything that was Halloween and so on.

They swung slightly back and forth, deep in thought. Honestly, they were distracted by their own thoughts and probably a bit too easy to sneak up on.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic wasn't the best known for being in the right place at the right time.]

[They weren't fresh to their team nor were they there from the beginning. They were just an addition that caught the attention of some eyes when they'd gotten too clumsy in their killing spree. They weren't close to anyone, they kept as far as they could. After all, this was just work, who would get close to their coworkers?] 

[It was common for them to drift off, to wander around and get themselves in trouble because it was all they knew. Aside from a boiling anger that had finally settled into a soft simmer after so many years of its roar.]

[For once Mimic could say they could think straight, something they hadn't felt they could say in so many countless years.]

[They come to their senses when the wind gently brushes their coat, jostling it as they lift their head from the floor they stared at. They blinked their eyes, adjusting to their surroundings as they stood still. Their boots rocked awkwardly on the floor as they clasped their hands in front of them in form of entertainment.] 

[Clap!]

[They flinch at the very sound of their hands, too used to the quiet atmosphere of their mind. It snapped them to their senses, coming to the sense that they weren't alone.]

[There was a tree and among it a person. Person? Yes. Or maybe not. Was that a mask? Mimic squints their eyes, not gaining much from it considering they were blind in one and their hair covered too much. They slowly unclasp their hands, lifting one to their face to push away a tuft of hair. A green eye peered from between the tufts, squinted as if it would help.]

[They aren't sure they should announce their presence, not sure who it was that stood in front of them.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

Fortunately, there was no need to announce their presence. The clap caught their attention just fine.

They definitely didn't fall out of the tree in their surprise. It was a calculated drop, if you had to know.

"By those-" They started, lifting themselves up and fixing their mask, which had gone askew in their descent. They paused at the unfamiliar face before getting up and brushing themselves off. "Guess that's what I get for not paying attention." They joke weakly.

"Uh- I don't think we've met before?" They mentally kicked themselves, it sounded more like a question than a statement. Introductions always felt so awkward. They pushed on regardless, giving their hood a tug to make sure it was covering them properly. "I'm the Shapeshifter, but that can be a mouthful, so just Shapes or Shifty works fine."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were startled, dropping their hand as the person fell.] "Oh!" [Was all they could pathetically muster in a moment of alarm. Ah, that was a rough tumble!]

[They stared at the unfamiliar mask, unsure they'd met the other person. They could only wonder if it was a merc, there seemed to be so many of them, and many they had yet to meet. The weak attempt at a joke has an awkward smile climbing up their lips.]

"I don't think we have." [They reply, feeling a chuckle follow light on their tongue. It wasn't a mocking laugh, it felt as if they did it to alleviate any awkward tension in the air.] "It's a pleasure to meet you Shapeshifter," [They pause for a second in thought.] "Shifty." [They bite at the nickname, giving it a taste before deciding it wasn't something they could roll with. Nicknames have never been their thing.]

[With a bad taste of the nickname on their tongue they quickly correct themselves.] "Shapeshifter."

[They looked down at the other, clasping their hands in front of them once again but this time gently. Skin pressing against skin but no sound, gentle and thought out. They press their weight into the heels of their boots, thoughtfully humming.] "I'm the Mimic, Mimic or Mi is just fine." [The nickname tumbles awkwardly from their mouth, it was clear nobody called them that. It was a clumsy attempt at mimicking the context of Shapeshifter's sentence.]

[They feel obligated to ask if the other was okay, they were after all the cause of Shapeshifter's fall and to say they didn't feel the slightest bit guilty about it would be a mouthful of lies.] "Are you alright? You took quite a fall."

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They make the decision to pointedly ignore their tumble, a quiet laugh escapes them at their correction, finding some humor in the clear decision that was made in just repeating their name. They nod as Mimic introduced themselves, taking note of how they stumble over the short nickname. "Mimic, got it."

They then scratched the back of their neck. Gloves against hood, fabric against fabric. Not an inch of exposed skin. " 'nd yeah, I'm fine. That was far from the worst fall I've taken. Might end up with a bruise or two at worst." They shrug, quickly attempting to dodge any concern. The last thing they wanted was to have to visit Medic. Especially for something so minor.

"Oh! Uh- pronouns? I'm fine with anything, myself, but get they/them most often." They didn't interact with enough of the others to know if they actually remembered to ask about their pronouns when first introducing themselves, but they'd like to think they did.

They could swear they used to be better at this kind of thing, but they could be wrong.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They seemed to move past their little tumble of nicknames in favor of nodding their head at the mention of their name, swinging on the balls of their feet as they inhaled softly. They swing their clasped hands in front of them quietly, seeming similar to a child waiting for a treat. Swinging their feet and arms in childlike manners.]

[Not overly exaggerated but it seemed like a motion they did to relieve stress. Their shoulders were slightly tensed and they had just a slight awkward swing. Their pose made it difficult to swing on their boots but they seemed to manage in favor of not standing still like a tree.]

"I can only assume you've gotten worse." [They made a general motion towards the mask that obscured their vision of Shapeshifter's face. They had a general assumption that the other was a merc just like them, if not then what sane man would wear a mask? They're polite enough not to bring it up.] "This line of work will have you sore by merely getting out of bed."

[They wave a hand lazily as they speak, they are somewhat expressive considering their eyes give no portal to their emotions.]

[Their voice could be described as blunt, there wasn't any real hint of emotion behind it. There was an accent to it however, some words were slurred, and 'r's seemed to pop just slightly. The roll of their tongue with every word that leaves their mouth.]

"I'm glad you're alright." [They seemed to realize that it was only polite to say that otherwise they wouldn't have said it and went along with just talking.] "Oh! Pro…nouns?" [The word slips out in a slurred confusion. Out of all the things they've been asked they can't say they've heard that before and despite not having their eyes visible the crinkles on their face showed that their brows had furrowed.]

"Ah!" [They seemed to brighten as the other brought up their pronouns.]

"Well then, I am a man and many refer to me as such." [They start with a tilt of their head, moving their hands to their chest.] "But I do use they/them as well!" [That seemed to be the first genuine spike in their tone. It sounded like they were happy and with a smile on their face perhaps that was it.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They, on the other hand, stood mostly still outside of occasional exaggerated movements likely to make up for the lack of visible facial expressions. Waving a hand here or there, slumping their shoulders, anything that helped convey their emotions was on the table.

It looked like despite being completely covered from head to toe, they actually wanted to be understood. How odd.

"The mask's a part of my uniform, which is a little funny since you never see it when I'm actually on the field." They muse. "If I'm out there, it's never as myself."

Their hands slip into the pockets of their hoodie and their shoulders seem to relax a bit, a little more comfortable now. "So he/him and they/them? Noted." They nod.

They pause, considering and weighing their options for a moment. "So, mind if I ask what brings you out here?"

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Their hands swung to the side as they brought up their pronouns, seeming delighted that someone else had the decency to know to ask. It wasn't very common that people did, it wasn't brought up from what they noticed. They tipped their weight forward, standing on the toes of their boots before swinging back slowly.]

[Shapeshifter was a nice change of pace from their previous interactions. One not being so pleasant and the other being simply... Strange. Although strange seemed to be a part of this job.]

[They quite like this person, from what they were experiencing now. Of course that could be bound for change.]

[They can't say they were blind to Shapeshifter's attempts at being understood. For a person who was covered from head to toe, you would expect them to be well... Mysterious. And yes, Shapeshifter was mysterious in some way but it didn't appear as if that was their goal. Mimic picked up on this, being surrounded by men who were both open and closed about themselves they tended to know the difference.]

[They were curious but they didn't pry. Unlike some members of their team, they were rather respectful, polite, and formal. At least in the presence of a stranger.]

"Shapeshifter" [They mimic at their sentence 'never as myself'.] "That makes sense." [They vocalize before moving past that issue in favor of other conversation topics. Work clearly wasn't their best conversation subject.]

[While speaking they must have stopped swinging, the action was gradual and barely noticeable until they had stopped completely. They nodded their head politely at the confirmation of their pronouns as they looked around.] "I can't say I know where here is."

[They spin in a circle, inspecting their surroundings before deciding that yes, they had no clue where this was.] "I was in my garden a couple of minutes ago, I must have spaced out when I went to get tea."

[A wanderer was what they were. An unwilling one at that.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

"Couldn't tell you exactly where we are, either, but I can say that I know how to get back." They note lightly, not seeming even the slightest bit put off by the other's unwilling wandering and instead assuring them that they could both get back fine.

They pause for a second. "Garden, huh?" There's a second where it seems like they might continue, but for one reason or another, their voice dies in their throat and they twist their fingers in the opposite arm's sleeve in annoyance.

Why did talking to people have to be hard? Knowing that they hadn't always been like this only made the situation more annoying for them.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

"I would appreciate being able to get back." [They hummed thoughtfully at the sentence. They were grateful that Shapeshifter wasn't one of those people to ask what they meant by 'spaced out'. It could get annoying repeating the same thing over and over again.]

[Actually, they memorized it from how many times they had to say it.]

['I never really know where I'm going but my legs do. Sometimes it feels like my body and mind are different, like they split apart and my body is seeking my mind out. Only when I come to my senses has my body found my mind.' Normally they told that to whoever would listen, it was both an explanation and also long enough that nobody would willingly bother them again with stupid questions.]

[They might hate questions, now that they think about it.]

"Yes, a garden." [Mimic moved on from that awkward pause where it felt as if Shapeshifter would continue. They weren't alone, talking to people was indeed hard! Mimic was lucky that they knew how to keep a conversation going, however, they never knew how to start one.]

[That was where their conversational skills fell.]

"I can show you to it if you'd like, I have a tree there and I can assure you that you will not fall again. If you'd prefer to continue whatever you were doing before I came along." [They speak lightly, rather fondly. The tension they displayed at first meeting wasn't as present, although it was certainly still there.] "Well... Once you get us out of here?"

[They meant for it to come out as a statement yet their voice squeaked as it came out in a question. Even through their hair, their brows could be described as raised, their mouth pulled into a thin line that creased upwards at the edges just slightly. It was barely visible through their stubble.]

[They were trying to make themselves... Friendly. Sure, in this line of work, they didn't have a reason to make friends or be friendly but it was like an instinct driven into their skin]. 

[To get on the good side of everyone.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

"I think I'd like to see it, assuming I'm not intruding on anything." They note. They doubted Mimic would offer if that were the case, but it felt like the right thing to say. Blame it on the inherent strangeness that nature had where they came from.

When there were forests out there that could stretch on forever and constantly misdirect you, you learned to err on the side of caution. Even when you befriend one such forest.

"Right." They clap, the sound muted by their gloves. "Now, I'm probably gonna look crazy here." Their voice carries some humor, clearly aware of how strange what they're about to do will look.

They turn their head. "South, we're going!"

Nothing happens for a moment, but they don't seem swayed. After a few more seconds of silence, some leaves rustle and something squawks, then a raven flies down and promptly lands on their head.

"Mimic, meet South. Resident mischief maker." They turn back to Mimic. "Also the one that will yell at me if I take a wrong turn."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

"It's peaceful. Much like this place although..." [They think for a second, trying to find the right word. What was the English word again? It was on the tip of their tongue.] "Pequeño, pequeño... pequeñito..." [They murmur the word in a foreign language as if it would remind them of the English word.]

[There were no connections between the English and Spanish versions of it so they opted to make a shrinking motion with their hand.] "Very cramp?" [The sentence comes out in a question once more. Despite so many years surrounded by English-speaking men, they seemed to forget those small details. Small words that weren't in their day-to-day talks. Such as the actual word for 'small'.]

[They drop their hands sheepishly to their sides, deciding that even if their little motion didn't work they were fine with Shapeshifter not knowing. They could figure it out once the two were out of the forest.]

[Mimic only managed to catch onto Shapeshifter's 'South, we're going!' and turned their head to stare at the other. They were thinking about the word small, it was right there and they couldn't figure it out! At first, they assumed they meant they were heading south with Shapeshifter's comment but when Shapeshifter didn't move Mimic just stood there awkwardly. Their brows furrowed because Shapeshifter's body language showed anticipation. Waiting for something. Now the question had to be either, is it a creature or is Shapeshifter insane?]

[Or both?]

[They tensed at the rustle of leaves, realizing they had focused longer on Shapeshifter's sanity rather than paying attention to what they were waiting for. They blinked their eyes as a means to ground themselves, tilting their head to get a look at the raven. So it was an animal!]

[Although a blurry one at that. Mimic lifts a tuft of hair covering their right eye. Squinting slightly to get a good look at the feathery creature.] "Ah! Then we have someone who knows the way!" [They humorously chirp as they drop their hand. With hair constantly obscuring their good eye they didn't have the best vision, hence the action of lifting their hair and squinting when they really wanted to get a look at something.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They were hanging upside down from a tree, something that was made harder thanks to their mask. Their blood ran to their head and they held their mask in place, unwilling to risk letting it fall when someone could stumble across them but also not wanting to admit defeat to gravity.

They were trying to sort through their thoughts, usually they'd climb a tall building or something to clear their mind, but that wasn't an option right now, so they took one out of Spring's book and did this instead.

Of course, Spring didn't have to worry about the blood rushing to her head like they did, so it was arguable if they were actually getting anywhere.

It was strange. Everything felt lively, yet quiet. Things were definitely happening, but never where they were, and if anything big was happening, clearly no one felt the need to include them or ask for their help.

And that was fine.

That was what they told themselves, anyway. They had always intended to leave distance between them and the rest of the team. It was better that way, no one really needed to know them. Sure, V had accepted them, but there was no saying if anyone else would.

That logic didn't hold up as well as it used to. Not after everything that had happened, from the bots showing up to everything that was Halloween and so on.

They swung slightly back and forth, deep in thought. Honestly, they were distracted by their own thoughts and probably a bit too easy to sneak up on.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic wasn't the best known for being in the right place at the right time.]

[They weren't fresh to their team nor were they there from the beginning. They were just an addition that caught the attention of some eyes when they'd gotten too clumsy in their killing spree. They weren't close to anyone, they kept as far as they could. After all, this was just work, who would get close to their coworkers?] 

[It was common for them to drift off, to wander around and get themselves in trouble because it was all they knew. Aside from a boiling anger that had finally settled into a soft simmer after so many years of its roar.]

[For once Mimic could say they could think straight, something they hadn't felt they could say in so many countless years.]

[They come to their senses when the wind gently brushes their coat, jostling it as they lift their head from the floor they stared at. They blinked their eyes, adjusting to their surroundings as they stood still. Their boots rocked awkwardly on the floor as they clasped their hands in front of them in form of entertainment.] 

[Clap!]

[They flinch at the very sound of their hands, too used to the quiet atmosphere of their mind. It snapped them to their senses, coming to the sense that they weren't alone.]

[There was a tree and among it a person. Person? Yes. Or maybe not. Was that a mask? Mimic squints their eyes, not gaining much from it considering they were blind in one and their hair covered too much. They slowly unclasp their hands, lifting one to their face to push away a tuft of hair. A green eye peered from between the tufts, squinted as if it would help.]

[They aren't sure they should announce their presence, not sure who it was that stood in front of them.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

Fortunately, there was no need to announce their presence. The clap caught their attention just fine.

They definitely didn't fall out of the tree in their surprise. It was a calculated drop, if you had to know.

"By those-" They started, lifting themselves up and fixing their mask, which had gone askew in their descent. They paused at the unfamiliar face before getting up and brushing themselves off. "Guess that's what I get for not paying attention." They joke weakly.

"Uh- I don't think we've met before?" They mentally kicked themselves, it sounded more like a question than a statement. Introductions always felt so awkward. They pushed on regardless, giving their hood a tug to make sure it was covering them properly. "I'm the Shapeshifter, but that can be a mouthful, so just Shapes or Shifty works fine."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were startled, dropping their hand as the person fell.] "Oh!" [Was all they could pathetically muster in a moment of alarm. Ah, that was a rough tumble!]

[They stared at the unfamiliar mask, unsure they'd met the other person. They could only wonder if it was a merc, there seemed to be so many of them, and many they had yet to meet. The weak attempt at a joke has an awkward smile climbing up their lips.]

"I don't think we have." [They reply, feeling a chuckle follow light on their tongue. It wasn't a mocking laugh, it felt as if they did it to alleviate any awkward tension in the air.] "It's a pleasure to meet you Shapeshifter," [They pause for a second in thought.] "Shifty." [They bite at the nickname, giving it a taste before deciding it wasn't something they could roll with. Nicknames have never been their thing.]

[With a bad taste of the nickname on their tongue they quickly correct themselves.] "Shapeshifter."

[They looked down at the other, clasping their hands in front of them once again but this time gently. Skin pressing against skin but no sound, gentle and thought out. They press their weight into the heels of their boots, thoughtfully humming.] "I'm the Mimic, Mimic or Mi is just fine." [The nickname tumbles awkwardly from their mouth, it was clear nobody called them that. It was a clumsy attempt at mimicking the context of Shapeshifter's sentence.]

[They feel obligated to ask if the other was okay, they were after all the cause of Shapeshifter's fall and to say they didn't feel the slightest bit guilty about it would be a mouthful of lies.] "Are you alright? You took quite a fall."

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They make the decision to pointedly ignore their tumble, a quiet laugh escapes them at their correction, finding some humor in the clear decision that was made in just repeating their name. They nod as Mimic introduced themselves, taking note of how they stumble over the short nickname. "Mimic, got it."

They then scratched the back of their neck. Gloves against hood, fabric against fabric. Not an inch of exposed skin. " 'nd yeah, I'm fine. That was far from the worst fall I've taken. Might end up with a bruise or two at worst." They shrug, quickly attempting to dodge any concern. The last thing they wanted was to have to visit Medic. Especially for something so minor.

"Oh! Uh- pronouns? I'm fine with anything, myself, but get they/them most often." They didn't interact with enough of the others to know if they actually remembered to ask about their pronouns when first introducing themselves, but they'd like to think they did.

They could swear they used to be better at this kind of thing, but they could be wrong.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They seemed to move past their little tumble of nicknames in favor of nodding their head at the mention of their name, swinging on the balls of their feet as they inhaled softly. They swing their clasped hands in front of them quietly, seeming similar to a child waiting for a treat. Swinging their feet and arms in childlike manners.]

[Not overly exaggerated but it seemed like a motion they did to relieve stress. Their shoulders were slightly tensed and they had just a slight awkward swing. Their pose made it difficult to swing on their boots but they seemed to manage in favor of not standing still like a tree.]

"I can only assume you've gotten worse." [They made a general motion towards the mask that obscured their vision of Shapeshifter's face. They had a general assumption that the other was a merc just like them, if not then what sane man would wear a mask? They're polite enough not to bring it up.] "This line of work will have you sore by merely getting out of bed."

[They wave a hand lazily as they speak, they are somewhat expressive considering their eyes give no portal to their emotions.]

[Their voice could be described as blunt, there wasn't any real hint of emotion behind it. There was an accent to it however, some words were slurred, and 'r's seemed to pop just slightly. The roll of their tongue with every word that leaves their mouth.]

"I'm glad you're alright." [They seemed to realize that it was only polite to say that otherwise they wouldn't have said it and went along with just talking.] "Oh! Pro…nouns?" [The word slips out in a slurred confusion. Out of all the things they've been asked they can't say they've heard that before and despite not having their eyes visible the crinkles on their face showed that their brows had furrowed.]

"Ah!" [They seemed to brighten as the other brought up their pronouns.]

"Well then, I am a man and many refer to me as such." [They start with a tilt of their head, moving their hands to their chest.] "But I do use they/them as well!" [That seemed to be the first genuine spike in their tone. It sounded like they were happy and with a smile on their face perhaps that was it.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They, on the other hand, stood mostly still outside of occasional exaggerated movements likely to make up for the lack of visible facial expressions. Waving a hand here or there, slumping their shoulders, anything that helped convey their emotions was on the table.

It looked like despite being completely covered from head to toe, they actually wanted to be understood. How odd.

"The mask's a part of my uniform, which is a little funny since you never see it when I'm actually on the field." They muse. "If I'm out there, it's never as myself."

Their hands slip into the pockets of their hoodie and their shoulders seem to relax a bit, a little more comfortable now. "So he/him and they/them? Noted." They nod.

They pause, considering and weighing their options for a moment. "So, mind if I ask what brings you out here?"

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Their hands swung to the side as they brought up their pronouns, seeming delighted that someone else had the decency to know to ask. It wasn't very common that people did, it wasn't brought up from what they noticed. They tipped their weight forward, standing on the toes of their boots before swinging back slowly.]

[Shapeshifter was a nice change of pace from their previous interactions. One not being so pleasant and the other being simply... Strange. Although strange seemed to be a part of this job.]

[They quite like this person, from what they were experiencing now. Of course that could be bound for change.]

[They can't say they were blind to Shapeshifter's attempts at being understood. For a person who was covered from head to toe, you would expect them to be well... Mysterious. And yes, Shapeshifter was mysterious in some way but it didn't appear as if that was their goal. Mimic picked up on this, being surrounded by men who were both open and closed about themselves they tended to know the difference.]

[They were curious but they didn't pry. Unlike some members of their team, they were rather respectful, polite, and formal. At least in the presence of a stranger.]

"Shapeshifter" [They mimic at their sentence 'never as myself'.] "That makes sense." [They vocalize before moving past that issue in favor of other conversation topics. Work clearly wasn't their best conversation subject.]

[While speaking they must have stopped swinging, the action was gradual and barely noticeable until they had stopped completely. They nodded their head politely at the confirmation of their pronouns as they looked around.] "I can't say I know where here is."

[They spin in a circle, inspecting their surroundings before deciding that yes, they had no clue where this was.] "I was in my garden a couple of minutes ago, I must have spaced out when I went to get tea."

[A wanderer was what they were. An unwilling one at that.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

"Couldn't tell you exactly where we are, either, but I can say that I know how to get back." They note lightly, not seeming even the slightest bit put off by the other's unwilling wandering and instead assuring them that they could both get back fine.

They pause for a second. "Garden, huh?" There's a second where it seems like they might continue, but for one reason or another, their voice dies in their throat and they twist their fingers in the opposite arm's sleeve in annoyance.

Why did talking to people have to be hard? Knowing that they hadn't always been like this only made the situation more annoying for them.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

"I would appreciate being able to get back." [They hummed thoughtfully at the sentence. They were grateful that Shapeshifter wasn't one of those people to ask what they meant by 'spaced out'. It could get annoying repeating the same thing over and over again.]

[Actually, they memorized it from how many times they had to say it.]

['I never really know where I'm going but my legs do. Sometimes it feels like my body and mind are different, like they split apart and my body is seeking my mind out. Only when I come to my senses has my body found my mind.' Normally they told that to whoever would listen, it was both an explanation and also long enough that nobody would willingly bother them again with stupid questions.]

[They might hate questions, now that they think about it.]

"Yes, a garden." [Mimic moved on from that awkward pause where it felt as if Shapeshifter would continue. They weren't alone, talking to people was indeed hard! Mimic was lucky that they knew how to keep a conversation going, however, they never knew how to start one.]

[That was where their conversational skills fell.]

"I can show you to it if you'd like, I have a tree there and I can assure you that you will not fall again. If you'd prefer to continue whatever you were doing before I came along." [They speak lightly, rather fondly. The tension they displayed at first meeting wasn't as present, although it was certainly still there.] "Well... Once you get us out of here?"

[They meant for it to come out as a statement yet their voice squeaked as it came out in a question. Even through their hair, their brows could be described as raised, their mouth pulled into a thin line that creased upwards at the edges just slightly. It was barely visible through their stubble.]

[They were trying to make themselves... Friendly. Sure, in this line of work, they didn't have a reason to make friends or be friendly but it was like an instinct driven into their skin]. 

[To get on the good side of everyone.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They were hanging upside down from a tree, something that was made harder thanks to their mask. Their blood ran to their head and they held their mask in place, unwilling to risk letting it fall when someone could stumble across them but also not wanting to admit defeat to gravity.

They were trying to sort through their thoughts, usually they'd climb a tall building or something to clear their mind, but that wasn't an option right now, so they took one out of Spring's book and did this instead.

Of course, Spring didn't have to worry about the blood rushing to her head like they did, so it was arguable if they were actually getting anywhere.

It was strange. Everything felt lively, yet quiet. Things were definitely happening, but never where they were, and if anything big was happening, clearly no one felt the need to include them or ask for their help.

And that was fine.

That was what they told themselves, anyway. They had always intended to leave distance between them and the rest of the team. It was better that way, no one really needed to know them. Sure, V had accepted them, but there was no saying if anyone else would.

That logic didn't hold up as well as it used to. Not after everything that had happened, from the bots showing up to everything that was Halloween and so on.

They swung slightly back and forth, deep in thought. Honestly, they were distracted by their own thoughts and probably a bit too easy to sneak up on.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic wasn't the best known for being in the right place at the right time.]

[They weren't fresh to their team nor were they there from the beginning. They were just an addition that caught the attention of some eyes when they'd gotten too clumsy in their killing spree. They weren't close to anyone, they kept as far as they could. After all, this was just work, who would get close to their coworkers?] 

[It was common for them to drift off, to wander around and get themselves in trouble because it was all they knew. Aside from a boiling anger that had finally settled into a soft simmer after so many years of its roar.]

[For once Mimic could say they could think straight, something they hadn't felt they could say in so many countless years.]

[They come to their senses when the wind gently brushes their coat, jostling it as they lift their head from the floor they stared at. They blinked their eyes, adjusting to their surroundings as they stood still. Their boots rocked awkwardly on the floor as they clasped their hands in front of them in form of entertainment.] 

[Clap!]

[They flinch at the very sound of their hands, too used to the quiet atmosphere of their mind. It snapped them to their senses, coming to the sense that they weren't alone.]

[There was a tree and among it a person. Person? Yes. Or maybe not. Was that a mask? Mimic squints their eyes, not gaining much from it considering they were blind in one and their hair covered too much. They slowly unclasp their hands, lifting one to their face to push away a tuft of hair. A green eye peered from between the tufts, squinted as if it would help.]

[They aren't sure they should announce their presence, not sure who it was that stood in front of them.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

Fortunately, there was no need to announce their presence. The clap caught their attention just fine.

They definitely didn't fall out of the tree in their surprise. It was a calculated drop, if you had to know.

"By those-" They started, lifting themselves up and fixing their mask, which had gone askew in their descent. They paused at the unfamiliar face before getting up and brushing themselves off. "Guess that's what I get for not paying attention." They joke weakly.

"Uh- I don't think we've met before?" They mentally kicked themselves, it sounded more like a question than a statement. Introductions always felt so awkward. They pushed on regardless, giving their hood a tug to make sure it was covering them properly. "I'm the Shapeshifter, but that can be a mouthful, so just Shapes or Shifty works fine."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were startled, dropping their hand as the person fell.] "Oh!" [Was all they could pathetically muster in a moment of alarm. Ah, that was a rough tumble!]

[They stared at the unfamiliar mask, unsure they'd met the other person. They could only wonder if it was a merc, there seemed to be so many of them, and many they had yet to meet. The weak attempt at a joke has an awkward smile climbing up their lips.]

"I don't think we have." [They reply, feeling a chuckle follow light on their tongue. It wasn't a mocking laugh, it felt as if they did it to alleviate any awkward tension in the air.] "It's a pleasure to meet you Shapeshifter," [They pause for a second in thought.] "Shifty." [They bite at the nickname, giving it a taste before deciding it wasn't something they could roll with. Nicknames have never been their thing.]

[With a bad taste of the nickname on their tongue they quickly correct themselves.] "Shapeshifter."

[They looked down at the other, clasping their hands in front of them once again but this time gently. Skin pressing against skin but no sound, gentle and thought out. They press their weight into the heels of their boots, thoughtfully humming.] "I'm the Mimic, Mimic or Mi is just fine." [The nickname tumbles awkwardly from their mouth, it was clear nobody called them that. It was a clumsy attempt at mimicking the context of Shapeshifter's sentence.]

[They feel obligated to ask if the other was okay, they were after all the cause of Shapeshifter's fall and to say they didn't feel the slightest bit guilty about it would be a mouthful of lies.] "Are you alright? You took quite a fall."

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They make the decision to pointedly ignore their tumble, a quiet laugh escapes them at their correction, finding some humor in the clear decision that was made in just repeating their name. They nod as Mimic introduced themselves, taking note of how they stumble over the short nickname. "Mimic, got it."

They then scratched the back of their neck. Gloves against hood, fabric against fabric. Not an inch of exposed skin. " 'nd yeah, I'm fine. That was far from the worst fall I've taken. Might end up with a bruise or two at worst." They shrug, quickly attempting to dodge any concern. The last thing they wanted was to have to visit Medic. Especially for something so minor.

"Oh! Uh- pronouns? I'm fine with anything, myself, but get they/them most often." They didn't interact with enough of the others to know if they actually remembered to ask about their pronouns when first introducing themselves, but they'd like to think they did.

They could swear they used to be better at this kind of thing, but they could be wrong.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They seemed to move past their little tumble of nicknames in favor of nodding their head at the mention of their name, swinging on the balls of their feet as they inhaled softly. They swing their clasped hands in front of them quietly, seeming similar to a child waiting for a treat. Swinging their feet and arms in childlike manners.]

[Not overly exaggerated but it seemed like a motion they did to relieve stress. Their shoulders were slightly tensed and they had just a slight awkward swing. Their pose made it difficult to swing on their boots but they seemed to manage in favor of not standing still like a tree.]

"I can only assume you've gotten worse." [They made a general motion towards the mask that obscured their vision of Shapeshifter's face. They had a general assumption that the other was a merc just like them, if not then what sane man would wear a mask? They're polite enough not to bring it up.] "This line of work will have you sore by merely getting out of bed."

[They wave a hand lazily as they speak, they are somewhat expressive considering their eyes give no portal to their emotions.]

[Their voice could be described as blunt, there wasn't any real hint of emotion behind it. There was an accent to it however, some words were slurred, and 'r's seemed to pop just slightly. The roll of their tongue with every word that leaves their mouth.]

"I'm glad you're alright." [They seemed to realize that it was only polite to say that otherwise they wouldn't have said it and went along with just talking.] "Oh! Pro…nouns?" [The word slips out in a slurred confusion. Out of all the things they've been asked they can't say they've heard that before and despite not having their eyes visible the crinkles on their face showed that their brows had furrowed.]

"Ah!" [They seemed to brighten as the other brought up their pronouns.]

"Well then, I am a man and many refer to me as such." [They start with a tilt of their head, moving their hands to their chest.] "But I do use they/them as well!" [That seemed to be the first genuine spike in their tone. It sounded like they were happy and with a smile on their face perhaps that was it.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They, on the other hand, stood mostly still outside of occasional exaggerated movements likely to make up for the lack of visible facial expressions. Waving a hand here or there, slumping their shoulders, anything that helped convey their emotions was on the table.

It looked like despite being completely covered from head to toe, they actually wanted to be understood. How odd.

"The mask's a part of my uniform, which is a little funny since you never see it when I'm actually on the field." They muse. "If I'm out there, it's never as myself."

Their hands slip into the pockets of their hoodie and their shoulders seem to relax a bit, a little more comfortable now. "So he/him and they/them? Noted." They nod.

They pause, considering and weighing their options for a moment. "So, mind if I ask what brings you out here?"

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Their hands swung to the side as they brought up their pronouns, seeming delighted that someone else had the decency to know to ask. It wasn't very common that people did, it wasn't brought up from what they noticed. They tipped their weight forward, standing on the toes of their boots before swinging back slowly.]

[Shapeshifter was a nice change of pace from their previous interactions. One not being so pleasant and the other being simply... Strange. Although strange seemed to be a part of this job.]

[They quite like this person, from what they were experiencing now. Of course that could be bound for change.]

[They can't say they were blind to Shapeshifter's attempts at being understood. For a person who was covered from head to toe, you would expect them to be well... Mysterious. And yes, Shapeshifter was mysterious in some way but it didn't appear as if that was their goal. Mimic picked up on this, being surrounded by men who were both open and closed about themselves they tended to know the difference.]

[They were curious but they didn't pry. Unlike some members of their team, they were rather respectful, polite, and formal. At least in the presence of a stranger.]

"Shapeshifter" [They mimic at their sentence 'never as myself'.] "That makes sense." [They vocalize before moving past that issue in favor of other conversation topics. Work clearly wasn't their best conversation subject.]

[While speaking they must have stopped swinging, the action was gradual and barely noticeable until they had stopped completely. They nodded their head politely at the confirmation of their pronouns as they looked around.] "I can't say I know where here is."

[They spin in a circle, inspecting their surroundings before deciding that yes, they had no clue where this was.] "I was in my garden a couple of minutes ago, I must have spaced out when I went to get tea."

[A wanderer was what they were. An unwilling one at that.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They were hanging upside down from a tree, something that was made harder thanks to their mask. Their blood ran to their head and they held their mask in place, unwilling to risk letting it fall when someone could stumble across them but also not wanting to admit defeat to gravity.

They were trying to sort through their thoughts, usually they'd climb a tall building or something to clear their mind, but that wasn't an option right now, so they took one out of Spring's book and did this instead.

Of course, Spring didn't have to worry about the blood rushing to her head like they did, so it was arguable if they were actually getting anywhere.

It was strange. Everything felt lively, yet quiet. Things were definitely happening, but never where they were, and if anything big was happening, clearly no one felt the need to include them or ask for their help.

And that was fine.

That was what they told themselves, anyway. They had always intended to leave distance between them and the rest of the team. It was better that way, no one really needed to know them. Sure, V had accepted them, but there was no saying if anyone else would.

That logic didn't hold up as well as it used to. Not after everything that had happened, from the bots showing up to everything that was Halloween and so on.

They swung slightly back and forth, deep in thought. Honestly, they were distracted by their own thoughts and probably a bit too easy to sneak up on.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic wasn't the best known for being in the right place at the right time.]

[They weren't fresh to their team nor were they there from the beginning. They were just an addition that caught the attention of some eyes when they'd gotten too clumsy in their killing spree. They weren't close to anyone, they kept as far as they could. After all, this was just work, who would get close to their coworkers?] 

[It was common for them to drift off, to wander around and get themselves in trouble because it was all they knew. Aside from a boiling anger that had finally settled into a soft simmer after so many years of its roar.]

[For once Mimic could say they could think straight, something they hadn't felt they could say in so many countless years.]

[They come to their senses when the wind gently brushes their coat, jostling it as they lift their head from the floor they stared at. They blinked their eyes, adjusting to their surroundings as they stood still. Their boots rocked awkwardly on the floor as they clasped their hands in front of them in form of entertainment.] 

[Clap!]

[They flinch at the very sound of their hands, too used to the quiet atmosphere of their mind. It snapped them to their senses, coming to the sense that they weren't alone.]

[There was a tree and among it a person. Person? Yes. Or maybe not. Was that a mask? Mimic squints their eyes, not gaining much from it considering they were blind in one and their hair covered too much. They slowly unclasp their hands, lifting one to their face to push away a tuft of hair. A green eye peered from between the tufts, squinted as if it would help.]

[They aren't sure they should announce their presence, not sure who it was that stood in front of them.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

Fortunately, there was no need to announce their presence. The clap caught their attention just fine.

They definitely didn't fall out of the tree in their surprise. It was a calculated drop, if you had to know.

"By those-" They started, lifting themselves up and fixing their mask, which had gone askew in their descent. They paused at the unfamiliar face before getting up and brushing themselves off. "Guess that's what I get for not paying attention." They joke weakly.

"Uh- I don't think we've met before?" They mentally kicked themselves, it sounded more like a question than a statement. Introductions always felt so awkward. They pushed on regardless, giving their hood a tug to make sure it was covering them properly. "I'm the Shapeshifter, but that can be a mouthful, so just Shapes or Shifty works fine."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were startled, dropping their hand as the person fell.] "Oh!" [Was all they could pathetically muster in a moment of alarm. Ah, that was a rough tumble!]

[They stared at the unfamiliar mask, unsure they'd met the other person. They could only wonder if it was a merc, there seemed to be so many of them, and many they had yet to meet. The weak attempt at a joke has an awkward smile climbing up their lips.]

"I don't think we have." [They reply, feeling a chuckle follow light on their tongue. It wasn't a mocking laugh, it felt as if they did it to alleviate any awkward tension in the air.] "It's a pleasure to meet you Shapeshifter," [They pause for a second in thought.] "Shifty." [They bite at the nickname, giving it a taste before deciding it wasn't something they could roll with. Nicknames have never been their thing.]

[With a bad taste of the nickname on their tongue they quickly correct themselves.] "Shapeshifter."

[They looked down at the other, clasping their hands in front of them once again but this time gently. Skin pressing against skin but no sound, gentle and thought out. They press their weight into the heels of their boots, thoughtfully humming.] "I'm the Mimic, Mimic or Mi is just fine." [The nickname tumbles awkwardly from their mouth, it was clear nobody called them that. It was a clumsy attempt at mimicking the context of Shapeshifter's sentence.]

[They feel obligated to ask if the other was okay, they were after all the cause of Shapeshifter's fall and to say they didn't feel the slightest bit guilty about it would be a mouthful of lies.] "Are you alright? You took quite a fall."

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They make the decision to pointedly ignore their tumble, a quiet laugh escapes them at their correction, finding some humor in the clear decision that was made in just repeating their name. They nod as Mimic introduced themselves, taking note of how they stumble over the short nickname. "Mimic, got it."

They then scratched the back of their neck. Gloves against hood, fabric against fabric. Not an inch of exposed skin. " 'nd yeah, I'm fine. That was far from the worst fall I've taken. Might end up with a bruise or two at worst." They shrug, quickly attempting to dodge any concern. The last thing they wanted was to have to visit Medic. Especially for something so minor.

"Oh! Uh- pronouns? I'm fine with anything, myself, but get they/them most often." They didn't interact with enough of the others to know if they actually remembered to ask about their pronouns when first introducing themselves, but they'd like to think they did.

They could swear they used to be better at this kind of thing, but they could be wrong.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They seemed to move past their little tumble of nicknames in favor of nodding their head at the mention of their name, swinging on the balls of their feet as they inhaled softly. They swing their clasped hands in front of them quietly, seeming similar to a child waiting for a treat. Swinging their feet and arms in childlike manners.]

[Not overly exaggerated but it seemed like a motion they did to relieve stress. Their shoulders were slightly tensed and they had just a slight awkward swing. Their pose made it difficult to swing on their boots but they seemed to manage in favor of not standing still like a tree.]

"I can only assume you've gotten worse." [They made a general motion towards the mask that obscured their vision of Shapeshifter's face. They had a general assumption that the other was a merc just like them, if not then what sane man would wear a mask? They're polite enough not to bring it up.] "This line of work will have you sore by merely getting out of bed."

[They wave a hand lazily as they speak, they are somewhat expressive considering their eyes give no portal to their emotions.]

[Their voice could be described as blunt, there wasn't any real hint of emotion behind it. There was an accent to it however, some words were slurred, and 'r's seemed to pop just slightly. The roll of their tongue with every word that leaves their mouth.]

"I'm glad you're alright." [They seemed to realize that it was only polite to say that otherwise they wouldn't have said it and went along with just talking.] "Oh! Pro…nouns?" [The word slips out in a slurred confusion. Out of all the things they've been asked they can't say they've heard that before and despite not having their eyes visible the crinkles on their face showed that their brows had furrowed.]

"Ah!" [They seemed to brighten as the other brought up their pronouns.]

"Well then, I am a man and many refer to me as such." [They start with a tilt of their head, moving their hands to their chest.] "But I do use they/them as well!" [That seemed to be the first genuine spike in their tone. It sounded like they were happy and with a smile on their face perhaps that was it.]

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

When you sign up for a job they never tell you you'll have to mimic a FUCKING FRENCH MAN!!!

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They were hanging upside down from a tree, something that was made harder thanks to their mask. Their blood ran to their head and they held their mask in place, unwilling to risk letting it fall when someone could stumble across them but also not wanting to admit defeat to gravity.

They were trying to sort through their thoughts, usually they'd climb a tall building or something to clear their mind, but that wasn't an option right now, so they took one out of Spring's book and did this instead.

Of course, Spring didn't have to worry about the blood rushing to her head like they did, so it was arguable if they were actually getting anywhere.

It was strange. Everything felt lively, yet quiet. Things were definitely happening, but never where they were, and if anything big was happening, clearly no one felt the need to include them or ask for their help.

And that was fine.

That was what they told themselves, anyway. They had always intended to leave distance between them and the rest of the team. It was better that way, no one really needed to know them. Sure, V had accepted them, but there was no saying if anyone else would.

That logic didn't hold up as well as it used to. Not after everything that had happened, from the bots showing up to everything that was Halloween and so on.

They swung slightly back and forth, deep in thought. Honestly, they were distracted by their own thoughts and probably a bit too easy to sneak up on.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic wasn't the best known for being in the right place at the right time.]

[They weren't fresh to their team nor were they there from the beginning. They were just an addition that caught the attention of some eyes when they'd gotten too clumsy in their killing spree. They weren't close to anyone, they kept as far as they could. After all, this was just work, who would get close to their coworkers?] 

[It was common for them to drift off, to wander around and get themselves in trouble because it was all they knew. Aside from a boiling anger that had finally settled into a soft simmer after so many years of its roar.]

[For once Mimic could say they could think straight, something they hadn't felt they could say in so many countless years.]

[They come to their senses when the wind gently brushes their coat, jostling it as they lift their head from the floor they stared at. They blinked their eyes, adjusting to their surroundings as they stood still. Their boots rocked awkwardly on the floor as they clasped their hands in front of them in form of entertainment.] 

[Clap!]

[They flinch at the very sound of their hands, too used to the quiet atmosphere of their mind. It snapped them to their senses, coming to the sense that they weren't alone.]

[There was a tree and among it a person. Person? Yes. Or maybe not. Was that a mask? Mimic squints their eyes, not gaining much from it considering they were blind in one and their hair covered too much. They slowly unclasp their hands, lifting one to their face to push away a tuft of hair. A green eye peered from between the tufts, squinted as if it would help.]

[They aren't sure they should announce their presence, not sure who it was that stood in front of them.]

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

Fortunately, there was no need to announce their presence. The clap caught their attention just fine.

They definitely didn't fall out of the tree in their surprise. It was a calculated drop, if you had to know.

"By those-" They started, lifting themselves up and fixing their mask, which had gone askew in their descent. They paused at the unfamiliar face before getting up and brushing themselves off. "Guess that's what I get for not paying attention." They joke weakly.

"Uh- I don't think we've met before?" They mentally kicked themselves, it sounded more like a question than a statement. Introductions always felt so awkward. They pushed on regardless, giving their hood a tug to make sure it was covering them properly. "I'm the Shapeshifter, but that can be a mouthful, so just Shapes or Shifty works fine."

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were startled, dropping their hand as the person fell.] "Oh!" [Was all they could pathetically muster in a moment of alarm. Ah, that was a rough tumble!]

[They stared at the unfamiliar mask, unsure they'd met the other person. They could only wonder if it was a merc, there seemed to be so many of them, and many they had yet to meet. The weak attempt at a joke has an awkward smile climbing up their lips.]

"I don't think we have." [They reply, feeling a chuckle follow light on their tongue. It wasn't a mocking laugh, it felt as if they did it to alleviate any awkward tension in the air.] "It's a pleasure to meet you Shapeshifter," [They pause for a second in thought.] "Shifty." [They bite at the nickname, giving it a taste before deciding it wasn't something they could roll with. Nicknames have never been their thing.]

[With a bad taste of the nickname on their tongue they quickly correct themselves.] "Shapeshifter."

[They looked down at the other, clasping their hands in front of them once again but this time gently. Skin pressing against skin but no sound, gentle and thought out. They press their weight into the heels of their boots, thoughtfully humming.] "I'm the Mimic, Mimic or Mi is just fine." [The nickname tumbles awkwardly from their mouth, it was clear nobody called them that. It was a clumsy attempt at mimicking the context of Shapeshifter's sentence.]

[They feel obligated to ask if the other was okay, they were after all the cause of Shapeshifter's fall and to say they didn't feel the slightest bit guilty about it would be a mouthful of lies.] "Are you alright? You took quite a fall."

[emotionallydeprived-shapeshifter]

They were hanging upside down from a tree, something that was made harder thanks to their mask. Their blood ran to their head and they held their mask in place, unwilling to risk letting it fall when someone could stumble across them but also not wanting to admit defeat to gravity.

They were trying to sort through their thoughts, usually they'd climb a tall building or something to clear their mind, but that wasn't an option right now, so they took one out of Spring's book and did this instead.

Of course, Spring didn't have to worry about the blood rushing to her head like they did, so it was arguable if they were actually getting anywhere.

It was strange. Everything felt lively, yet quiet. Things were definitely happening, but never where they were, and if anything big was happening, clearly no one felt the need to include them or ask for their help.

And that was fine.

That was what they told themselves, anyway. They had always intended to leave distance between them and the rest of the team. It was better that way, no one really needed to know them. Sure, V had accepted them, but there was no saying if anyone else would.

That logic didn't hold up as well as it used to. Not after everything that had happened, from the bots showing up to everything that was Halloween and so on.

They swung slightly back and forth, deep in thought. Honestly, they were distracted by their own thoughts and probably a bit too easy to sneak up on.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic wasn't the best known for being in the right place at the right time.]

[They weren't fresh to their team nor were they there from the beginning. They were just an addition that caught the attention of some eyes when they'd gotten too clumsy in their killing spree. They weren't close to anyone, they kept as far as they could. After all, this was just work, who would get close to their coworkers?] 

[It was common for them to drift off, to wander around and get themselves in trouble because it was all they knew. Aside from a boiling anger that had finally settled into a soft simmer after so many years of its roar.]

[For once Mimic could say they could think straight, something they hadn't felt they could say in so many countless years.]

[They come to their senses when the wind gently brushes their coat, jostling it as they lift their head from the floor they stared at. They blinked their eyes, adjusting to their surroundings as they stood still. Their boots rocked awkwardly on the floor as they clasped their hands in front of them in form of entertainment.] 

[Clap!]

[They flinch at the very sound of their hands, too used to the quiet atmosphere of their mind. It snapped them to their senses, coming to the sense that they weren't alone.]

[There was a tree and among it a person. Person? Yes. Or maybe not. Was that a mask? Mimic squints their eyes, not gaining much from it considering they were blind in one and their hair covered too much. They slowly unclasp their hands, lifting one to their face to push away a tuft of hair. A green eye peered from between the tufts, squinted as if it would help.]

[They aren't sure they should announce their presence, not sure who it was that stood in front of them.]

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

Mimics account is one month old, so you know what that means!!! Celebratory doodles for Mimic coming out later that'll be posted on this account!! (If I remember) -Rabbit

[crashlanding-heavy]

[Mimic doesn't remember the last time they had something to eat. Perhaps that was what caused them to leave the comfort of their small garden in favor of quietly strolling through the RED base walls.]

[They held a kettle in one gloved hand, balancing three tea cups in the other. Their steps were slow and soft, softened by the bottom of their boots which were intended for stealth.]

[Their eyes were downcast as they turned the corner, stepping down the hallway that opened into the kitchen. Maneuvering the items they held as they lifted their eyes up to make sure they didn't bump into anything, or anyone for that matter, as they stepped into the kitchen.]

(- @emotionally-defeated-mimic )-

The Alien froze in surprise like a deer in headlights, dropping one of Demo’s Scrumpy bottles. Glass shards scattering across the kitchen floor.

Hearing the glass bottle shatter made the Alien’s crooked antennas twitch.

It slowly faced Mimic. The Alien’s shoulders were still raised, but eventually the Alien loosened up.

It studied the human who walked in on it stealing from the freezer.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were equally startled, jumping a little as they locked onto the creature in the kitchen. One thing was for sure, they will almost never get used to seeing odd stuff in this work field. They didn't make a sound as they glanced down at the scattered glass, their eyes covered by thick tufts of hair, and yet all visible to them.]

"Um... do you need help cleaning that up?" [They finally managed to murmur. Staring down the red creature like it would attack them any second. They made their way into the kitchen, placing down their kettle beside the sink and placing the cups down gently with a soft clink.]

[At first, they couldn't make the connection between the creature and a coworker named Heavy. They were more focused on not breaking their precious glass the way the creature had broken one of Demo's Scrumpy. When they were certain their glass wasn't in danger, they turned their head to stare at the creature.]

[Their brows furrowed in confusion for a split second, their mind seeming to make the connection of their coworker and the creature in front of them and they seem to worry about whether or not it's a similar incident to Soldier with honey.] "Heavy is that you?" [The question comes out hesitantly, as if Mimic wasn't sure it was him]

[crashlanding-heavy]

The Alien made a grumbling noise as a defense mechanism, though its grumbling died down as it calmed down.

“.. Gwarp.”

Maybe one day it would find someone that could speak its language, but today was not the day. Though it was quite unsure if this person was human, the alien couldn’t spot their eyes.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic stared at the rather strange creature after its first sound. Okay... they didn't know where to go with this. What was this? A prank? A joke?] "Okay... maybe not." [They couldn't tell if this was a serious issue or just a joke. But the creature looked defensive, and Mimic was starting to wonder if they were going insane. What peaked their interest was the sound the creature made. It certainly didn't sound human.]

"The glass..?" [They point down to it, not certain on how to say that they simply wanted to help clean it up. Their current dilemma was to worry about the glass or worry about the creature, which they were fairly certain was Heavy but not anymore, and the worry for the glass was winning. Their eye pulled away from the creature as they sought out the broom, finding it tucked away in a corner and lifting it up for the creature to see.]

[They point at the glass again, this time with the broom while making a slight sweeping motion.] "Do you need help cleaning up?" [Was what they could manage, again, while looking up at the creature. They might as well treat this as a normal event, perhaps it was a little strange, but they have encountered much stranger things in their life. Demoman.]

[crashlanding-heavy]

[Mimic doesn't remember the last time they had something to eat. Perhaps that was what caused them to leave the comfort of their small garden in favor of quietly strolling through the RED base walls.]

[They held a kettle in one gloved hand, balancing three tea cups in the other. Their steps were slow and soft, softened by the bottom of their boots which were intended for stealth.]

[Their eyes were downcast as they turned the corner, stepping down the hallway that opened into the kitchen. Maneuvering the items they held as they lifted their eyes up to make sure they didn't bump into anything, or anyone for that matter, as they stepped into the kitchen.]

(- @emotionally-defeated-mimic )-

The Alien froze in surprise like a deer in headlights, dropping one of Demo’s Scrumpy bottles. Glass shards scattering across the kitchen floor.

Hearing the glass bottle shatter made the Alien’s crooked antennas twitch.

It slowly faced Mimic. The Alien’s shoulders were still raised, but eventually the Alien loosened up.

It studied the human who walked in on it stealing from the freezer.

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[They were equally startled, jumping a little as they locked onto the creature in the kitchen. One thing was for sure, they will almost never get used to seeing odd stuff in this work field. They didn't make a sound as they glanced down at the scattered glass, their eyes covered by thick tufts of hair, and yet all visible to them.]

"Um... do you need help cleaning that up?" [They finally managed to murmur. Staring down the red creature like it would attack them any second. They made their way into the kitchen, placing down their kettle beside the sink and placing the cups down gently with a soft clink.]

[At first, they couldn't make the connection between the creature and a coworker named Heavy. They were more focused on not breaking their precious glass the way the creature had broken one of Demo's Scrumpy. When they were certain their glass wasn't in danger, they turned their head to stare at the creature.]

[Their brows furrowed in confusion for a split second, their mind seeming to make the connection of their coworker and the creature in front of them and they seem to worry about whether or not it's a similar incident to Soldier with honey.] "Heavy is that you?" [The question comes out hesitantly, as if Mimic wasn't sure it was him]

[physicallyfreakishcupcake]

[Mimic must have been wandering around forever in search of another person to interact with. Their steps soft against concrete floor. He was fumbling with a small journal, using it as a distraction from awkward silence.]

[It was stupidly hot everywhere, their coat clung onto them uncomfortably with every little step they took. Who's idea was it to have this be their work outfit?]

"Hello?" [He called out finally. For a place that was usually buzzing with life, co-workers and enemies alike it was rather... Silent. They tugged awkwardly on their coat.]

@emotionally-defeated-mimic

*a stench reeked in the hot air that hung around, putrid, foul, it was the unmistakable odor of decomposing death. There were faint brownish stains on the wooden floorboards leading up to the large metal door of RED's upper spawn.*

*You could hear the sound of the dingy ventilation fan inside whirring. The sounds of movement inside tells you someone is present, seemingly something heavy being dragged around across the ceramic tiled floor, and the peculiar snapping- something similar to the sounds of reloading a shotgun.*

Bap-

*something bumped against a wall from the inside, before it went eerily quiet.... do you still dare look inside?*

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic might have assumed this was perhaps an abandoned place. They hadn't heard much about this place, it felt almost abandoned. They certainly haven't been placed in any matches here.] [That was until that- putrid stench filled the air. They almost gagged as soon as they began to smell it. It was subtle at first when they were far away from it but as they got closer and closer their senses were so ruthlessly attacked in a way that has they wincing.] [They almost turn on their heels to leave, lifting their journal to their nose to protect their nostrils as their brows furrowed. They climbed up wooden floorboards very hesitantly before they came across the metal door of RED's spawn room.] "Ah, that makes sense..." [They murmur softly, feeling a gag at the tip of their tongue at having to speak. But at least there was an answer for the putrid smell. The question was, who could be rotting in there? A dead animal? A corpse of a team member left behind? Against better judgement they press their gloved hand against the door, ignoring all fight or flight alarms that ring in their head.] "Hello?" [They'd croak again, their voice low and calm. They could hear sounds, something similar to a reloading shotgun and it has the hairs on the base of their neck rising. Bap! They don't hear the sound until they're opening the door, realizing that something might be alive.]

[physicallyfreakishcupcake]

*The door creaks as it retracts upwards, sliding open.*

*It was an assault to all the senses. The stench was revolting, the light coloured walls were dripping with shades of brown and red like a slaughterhouse. Sprays of splattered viscera and brainmatter , coming down to drip and pool on the tiles. In the middle of the aftermaths of a previous carnage, you see it. Soldier *

*His back facing away from you, crunching, chewing, tearing, ripping, biting, inhumanly groutesque sounds as you watch him eat gluttonously. A lifeless corpse being sacked around like a ragdoll as he tore away bits and pieces, wolfing it down. *

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Although they had expected that from the door, they seemed to flinch. Their hand retracted quickly as they took a step backward. The journal they had gripped ever so tightly fell with a soft thump on the floor of leather crashing on worn tile.]

[Gasp.]

[The sound leaves them suddenly without them capable of controlling it. It was immediately followed with a violent gag. One thing was the smell of blood on a battlefield. Another was a rotting corpse. Those were two different smells altogether. It makes their eyes water just slightly as they lift a glove to clog their nose.]

[They blink away small tears as they focused on the middle of the room. Ignoring the blood coated walls in favor of focusing on the figure dead in the center. They stepped slowly into the room without thinking, breathing through their mouth. A back faced them, but they'd be stupid not to recognize who sat there devouring at... something like it was his life savior.] "What the hell! Soldier?"

[Their voice carried through the room, squeaky from covering their nose, as they announced their presence. Their boots avoid small splashes of blood on the floor, side stepping whatever disgusting matter was on the floor. They wince when they step in something squishy and lift their boot up with a frown on their face.] "Que en el carajo are you doing?" [They squack. They've seen many things in their life, but they've never seen their coworker do something this weird!]

[physicallyfreakishcupcake]

[Mimic must have been wandering around forever in search of another person to interact with. Their steps soft against concrete floor. He was fumbling with a small journal, using it as a distraction from awkward silence.]

[It was stupidly hot everywhere, their coat clung onto them uncomfortably with every little step they took. Who's idea was it to have this be their work outfit?]

"Hello?" [He called out finally. For a place that was usually buzzing with life, co-workers and enemies alike it was rather... Silent. They tugged awkwardly on their coat.]

@emotionally-defeated-mimic

*a stench reeked in the hot air that hung around, putrid, foul, it was the unmistakable odor of decomposing death. There were faint brownish stains on the wooden floorboards leading up to the large metal door of RED's upper spawn.*

*You could hear the sound of the dingy ventilation fan inside whirring. The sounds of movement inside tells you someone is present, seemingly something heavy being dragged around across the ceramic tiled floor, and the peculiar snapping- something similar to the sounds of reloading a shotgun.*

Bap-

*something bumped against a wall from the inside, before it went eerily quiet.... do you still dare look inside?*

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Mimic might have assumed this was perhaps an abandoned place. They hadn't heard much about this place, it felt almost abandoned. They certainly haven't been placed in any matches here.] [That was until that- putrid stench filled the air. They almost gagged as soon as they began to smell it. It was subtle at first when they were far away from it but as they got closer and closer their senses were so ruthlessly attacked in a way that has they wincing.] [They almost turn on their heels to leave, lifting their journal to their nose to protect their nostrils as their brows furrowed. They climbed up wooden floorboards very hesitantly before they came across the metal door of RED's spawn room.] "Ah, that makes sense..." [They murmur softly, feeling a gag at the tip of their tongue at having to speak. But at least there was an answer for the putrid smell. The question was, who could be rotting in there? A dead animal? A corpse of a team member left behind? Against better judgement they press their gloved hand against the door, ignoring all fight or flight alarms that ring in their head.] "Hello?" [They'd croak again, their voice low and calm. They could hear sounds, something similar to a reloading shotgun and it has the hairs on the base of their neck rising. Bap! They don't hear the sound until they're opening the door, realizing that something might be alive.]

[lt-but-gay]

Mimicking Engie is the best cause all they gotta do is slap some knee-protectors on and pray the enemy Spy sucks ass

Bonus height comparison LMFAOOO

[emotionally-defeated-mimic]

[Pointing]

THAT'S ME THAT'S ME