Warning: this starts out mushy, but after the first 2 paragraphs, it's not that bad.
All the usual disclaimers apply.


Meryl had never felt so happy before. Everything and everyone around her seemed to radiate pure joy. They had finally managed to reach the under-water source, and now it sprayed up from the well like a fountain, covering everyone with a refreshing mist.

But the water wasn't the only reason she was happy. The true reason for her smile was walking towards them, waving happily. Vash the Stampede, the 60 billion $$ man, was considered a walking disaster, but she knew his true, gentle, peace-loving nature. And he was alive and well, so she could tell him how much she cared for him! She knew that she'd find a way to gather her courage and finally say to him--

What the heck is he carrying? Meryl asked.

Millie said.

They both stared at Vash and his baggage. At first, it looked like a white blob. Then they realized it was the back end of someone that Vash was carrying over his shoulder. Whoever it was was apparently wounded. Meryl's first instinct was to call a doctor, but she hesitated.

Should I go get a doctor, Ma'am? Millie asked.

I don't know, Millie. I think-- I think that's Knives.

If any doubt existed in Meryl's mind as to the owner of that particular posterior, it was erased by the suspiciously nervous smile of Vash's face. Meryl stormed towards him with Millie in tow, feeling chills despite the desert heat. They met Vash on the outskirts of the town, which were now deserted, as everyone was celebrating at the well.

Uh... I see you got the well going. Vash said cheerily.

Yeah! Isn't it great Mr. Vash--

Meryl interrupted. And to Vash she snapped, Don't think you can distract us. Who is that? She pointed to the limp body. Is that KNIVES?!

Ah, ah! Not so loud! Vash said, looking around as he motioned for her to calm down. I'm not sure how many people know his name here. Prompted by Meryl's glare, he continued, Yes, it's Knives. We need to get him to my room. He's, uh, kinda shot up. I bandaged him best I could but-- There was a silent plea in his eyes as he looked at Meryl and Millie.

Meryl fought down the anger and fear that was churning in her stomach. she said, take him to your room. Millie and I will meet you there with medical supplies. BUT he's your responsibility!

I know, Vash said, with a calm, sad smile. Rem asked me to take care of him.

His solemnness and sadness eased Meryl's anger, but her mind was still buzzing as she and Millie picked up medical supplies. Knives is injured for now, but when he gets better, he'll be dangerous again. How does Vash expect to pacify him? I can't believe he did this! Strike that, she thought with a sigh. Of course he'd do it, because it's the STUPIDEST--



Meryl snapped out of her internal monologue with a start.

You're very quiet-- Millie continued.

It's nothing, Meryl said. I'm just... worried. How are we supposed to take care of, let alone hide, a temperamental, living bomb?

Well, as my youngest older sister used to say, We'll burn those bridges when we get to them,' Millie stated cheerily. Uh, cross. I mean cross those bridges', she corrected.

Meryl said with a sigh, I think you were closer the first time.