The perched figure hopped to the ground and stood to face William.

“You our scout?” William said.

“Yes,” the scout said. She glanced around each time William spoke.

“Do you know where we’re supposed to find the guy?”

“Yes.”

“And we have to kill him?”

“Yes.”

“What’s your name?” he asked. She gave him a stern gaze and he coughed. “You know, in case something happens and I need to warn you. I don’t want to just say, ‘hey. The scout.’”

“Mim,” she said.

“Just Mim?”

“Just Mim.”

“And how’ve you been tonight?” He managed a weak smile but Mim simply turned away.

“Fine.”

“My name is William. Most people call me Bill,” he said. There was a long pause. William rubbed the back of his neck.

“How are you?” Mim said softly without looking up.

“It’s kind of breezy tonight, so a bit cold. Nervous. I just killed some guys I guess. Long story.”

“Cold Bill,” she said, then began walking toward a nearby alley. Bill followed.

“Sure, that works. You probably know what you’re doing so I’ll just follow you.”