Disclaimer: I don't own Trigun, I'm just borrowing it for awhile. Trigun is property of Yasuhiro Nightow, Mad House, Pioneer, and whoever else was smart enough to get a piece of the action. I just know I wasn't. T_T
"..." is talking
'...' is thinking
Author's note: I finished writing this fic earlier this week, but today I thought up an idea for a new chapter (which I'm writing now) and since I don't know which chapters I'm going to insert it between, the chapter after this may take a little longer to post up. I'm sorry... please, don't hate me... _
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A Glimpse of Eden
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Chapter - 7
~
"Where are we going, Meryl?" Locke asked, absently running a hand over his now-short and spiky hair.
Scraping some scrambled eggs out of the frying pan and onto a plate, Meryl placed it on the table in front of Locke. "Into town. We need to buy some clothes and things."
"Oh..." He forked some eggs into his mouth. "Is Knives coming with us?"
"Don't talk with your mouth full, and yes, Knives is coming with us. He's driving."
Locke carefully chewed and swallowed before asking his next question. "What's a town like? Will there be lots of people there?"
Meryl sat down with her own plate. "Well... a town has alot of buildings, like stores and inns and houses. And yes, it has 'lots' of people."
She raised a forkfull of eggs to her mouth but stopped in surprise when Knives entered the room. He was wearing a pair of black jeans and his form-fitting, white button-down shirt had been left untucked. A long black leather coat and a pair of black work boots completed his ensemble. He caught her shocked expression and frowned.
"What?" He glanced down at himself and brushed absentmindedly at his shirt. "Is there something wrong?"
"No, no... it's just that..." she trailed off. His appearance had taken her completely by surprise. She was used to seeing him in his usual outfit, that grey and red jumpsuit thing he always wore. To see him dressed so normal was... weird.
He ran his fingers through his hair and gave her a confused look. "'It's just what?'"
She blushed and looked down. "I'm just not used to seeing you dressed like that," she finished lamely.
He came over and sat down next to Locke at the table and Meryl jumped up to fix his plate. She needed to give herself something to do. His appearance had really disarmed her. When he was dressed in his normal outfit she thought of him only as Vash's brother, the man who had caused Vash so much suffering. But now she was painfully aware at how physically attractive the man was and just how much he resembled Vash. He was lean but well-muscled, and his new clothes only helped to accentuate his body.
She carried the plate over and set it down in front of Knives. Keeping her eyes downcast she moved back to her chair and sat down. She could feel Knives' questioning gaze on the top of her head but she ignored it. Finally, he turned his attention to Locke and she resumed eating.
"What's this? You cut his hair?" He reached out and fingered a strand of Locke's newly cut blonde hair.
She glanced up in surprise. "Don't you think I should have? It was getting pretty long after all."
He ran his hand over Locke's short hair slowly, his expression thoughtful. "No, it's fine I suppose." He returned his attention back to his plate.
Meryl watched him add salt to his eggs and take a bite before she released the breath she had been holding. She had half expected Knives to threaten and berate her about how she hadn't asked his permission before going ahead and trimming Locke's hair. Maybe... after all these months he was finally changing, becoming less controlling and more tolerant towards her.
"Meryl..."
"Yes, Knives?"
"Do something like this again without my permission and see what I'll do to you."
She signed. Or maybe, he had just paused to think up a good threat.
She had a feeling it was going to be a long and difficult day.
~
They arrived in the town of Garrison after a long and difficult car ride. Knives had been quiet the entire way and Meryl had been kept busy trying to answer a million of Locke's questions. He seemed to have a question about everything, and Meryl tried to be patient and answer them all but...
"What's that, Meryl?"
She sighed. Following Locke's pointing finger she replied, "It's a thomas."
"What's it for?" he asked, his brow crinkled in thought.
"It's an animal used for transportation," she said simply.
"You ride on top of it?" he asked, a look of interest on his face.
"It's like a horse." Knives cut in. "Remember? From that book I showed you?"
"Oh..." Locke looked over at the thomas' odd appearance. "It looks funny."
Meryl grabbed Locke's hand and pulled him out of the street and toward a store, Knives following silently behind them. Entering the store she released Locke's hand and turned toward Knives.
"You can wait outside." She waved her hands at him in a shoo-ing motion. "I can handle this."
"Hurry and buy what you need." He crossed his arms, irritated. "We don't have all day."
Holding back a biting retort, she walked to the counter and greeted the clerk.
"Good morning, Miss. What can get for you today?"
She produced the list Knives had made out. "We need these things," she handed the clerk the list, "and I also need to buy some clothes."
The clerk glanced over the list and nodded. "I think I have everything on here."
Locke came over and shyly smiled at the man.
"And who's this?" The clerk leaned over the counter to smile at the boy. Glancing up at Meryl he asked, "Your son?"
Meryl sputtered in indignation. Surely she didn't look that old. She was barely in her mid 20s!
Not noticing Meryl's outraged reaction he spoke down to Locke. "How old are you, son?"
Locke looked at the floor and shyly replied, "Seven."
"Seven years old, huh? Well, here... have a treat on me." The man handed Locke a sucker.
As Locke politely thanked the man, Meryl smiled fondly at the boy. When he had said 'seven' he hadn't meant years, he had meant months.
"Is there a gunsmith shop around here?" Meryl stiffened as Knives came up behind her and addressed the clerk.
"Yes, sir. There's one across the street and a couple doors down."
"Thank you." he paused and then spoke down to Meryl. "Will you... be alright alone?"
She glanced up, surprised. She finally managed a nod and he handed her a roll of money.
"No need to worry," spoke up the clerk, grinning knowingly at her and Knives, "I'll take good care of your wife."
'Wife!?' Meryl choked and blushed furiously, trying to think of a response to the man's comment.
"Thank you," Knives smiled politely at the man, "I'm sure my 'wife' will be in very good hands." He turned and grinned cheerfully down at Meryl, pretending to be a happy and caring husband. His eyes danced with cold humor and Meryl had to resist the urge to wrap her hands around his throat and throttle him. Any retort she might have come up with was cut short when Knives abruptly turned and walked toward the exit.
"Hey! Just where are you going? I'm not through with you! Get back here!" she yelled across the store and shook a fist at Knives' retreating back. Stopping at the threshold, he glanced back toward an angry and extremely irritated Meryl.
"When you're done here, meet me across the street and we'll have lunch at the bar." Not bothering to wait for a reply, he raised a hand in farewell and continued out of the store, quickly disappearing from her sight.
She crossed her arms and forced herself to calm down. Knives certainly had a warped sense of humor.
Her eyes widened as she realized what had just occured. Knives had just left her alone.
'Does he... finally believe my promise not to run away?'
Smiling, she turned back to the counter to look through the store's clothing selection.
~
Meryl watched the clerk write up the final bill. It would eat up much of the money Knives had left her, but they had needed alot of things. She had bought clothes for Locke and herself and the other things Knives had written down. She had also bought extra clothes that were too large for Locke now but that he would grow into. With her not knowing when she would get to town again she felt she had better.
"It will take a while for me to wrap all your purchases." The clerk handed her the change. "But when you're done with your meal come back and I'll have everything ready for you."
"Thank you." She took Locke's hand and walked outside.
Scanning the street she quickly located the bar Knives had mentioned. Holding Locke's hand tighter she crossed the street and entered the building. Inside she found Knives, quietly sitting at a table looking over a menu.
"Did you get everything?" he asked, not looking up from the menu.
"Yes, thank you." She handed him the change, which he took without comment. "It cost more than I had thought, but we have plenty of supplies now."
She sat at the table in the chair directly across from his and opened a menu, glancing over the choices. When the waiter approached she was still trying to decide between the spaghetti or the meatloaf. Knives pulled the menu out of her hands and ordered for them all.
"We'll have the veal." The waiter nodded and left.
"Knives! I can order for myself!" She raised her hand to try and get the waiter's attention.
He reached across the table and pulled her hand down. "You'll have the veal and like it," he said tersely, his eyes narrowed.
She frowned. He may have shown that he trusted her slightly by leaving her unsupervised for a few minutes, but he was showing her that he was still in complete control. She crossed her arms and decided to ignore him.
He frowned, slightly surprised and disapointed that she hadn't argued with him. He found that he quite enjoyed verbally sparing with the girl and that watching her get angry or irritated over his comments was extremely amusing.
The waiter brought their food and drinks and then departed. They ate in silence, listening to the steady hum of conversation going on around them.
"Meryl..." Locke tugged on her arm. "I need a napkin."
She looked around the table for one, but the waiter had apparently forgotten to bring any.
"Don't worry, I'll go and get us some." She stood and made her way over to the bar to ask for some, aware that many of the bar's male customers were now watching her. She heard some whispered comments and blushed, conscious of the fact that she no longer had her derringers for protection.
Grabbing a handful of napkins from off the counter, she turned to head back to the table and was surprised to find Knives standing directly in front of her, blocking her way. Casting a narrowed glance around the room, he took the napkins from her with one hand and then lightly brushed a finger across her cheek with his other. Surprised, her blush deepened.
"Knives... what are you...!?"
Silencing her with a look, he took hold of her upper-arms and roughly pulled her against him, her head ending up resting on his chest. He then aimed a dark glare at the crowd of men gathered at the bar who had only moments before been openly leering at Meryl. His meaning was clear. She belonged to him.
The men returned their attention back to their drinks and Knives abruptly released her and walked back to their table. Plunking back down in his seat, he handed a napkin to Locke and casually resumed eating. Meryl self-consciously made her way back to their table and sat down.
"And just what was... that about!?" she asked, trying hard to remain calm.
He glanced up, taking note of her clenched fists and angry glare. "I was merely demonstrating to those men that you weren't to be bothered. Was that wrong?"
"You could have done it some other way!"
He blinked. "I could have. But I chose the most effective way."
"But... that was embarassing!" she squeeked out, her right eyebrow starting to twitch.
"Why?" he asked innocently.
"Because... because you made it look like you... and that I... argh! It just was!" Standing up, she took Locke's hand and made for the exit. She had the feeling that if she didn't leave right now, her lunch might very well end up all over Knives' fat head.
"Hey, Meryl!"
She turned and glared at him. He had that smug look on his face, obviously pleased with himself at having made her lose her temper. "What!?"
"Where are you going?" he asked with a hint of amusement.
She paused, a look of momentary confusion on her face. Where was she going? He had upset her so much she had forgotten where she was headed. Oh, yeah...
"I'm going to see if the supplies are ready!" she yelled, having to bite her tongue to keep herself calling him an obscenity.
"Oh, alright. I'll meet you outside the gunsmith's when you're done." He waved the waiter over for the bill.
Seething, she marched out of the bar with Locke in tow. How dare that man embarass her like that! She walked across the street and into the store, determined that when she came out again she would have her anger under control. That, or she would punch Knives right in his smug face and to hell with the consequences!
~
Meryl placed the last package in the car's trunk and then slammed it shut. She had calmed down since leaving the bar, but she was still bothered by what had happened. Not so much at what Knives had done, but at her own reaction to his touch.
She reached up a hand to lightly touch her check. What was wrong with her lately? First she practically drools at the man during breakfast, and now here she was all upset and giddy over a simple touch. She blushed. Why did he have such an affect on her?
Knives was the man who had killed thousands, perhaps millions if you counted the Great Fall, and dreamed of the day when he could finish off the rest. And even though he himself hadn't pulled the trigger, he was also responsible for the death of Wolfwood. She could feel the tears forming as she recalled that horrible day.
Vash had come in with tears in his eyes, brokenly whispering that he had something to tell her and Milly, and then he had sat down at the table, looking every bit of his 130 years. Between his tears, he had finally managed to say that Wolfwood had been shot. Milly had gone pale and then started for the door, asking where Wolfwood was now and how badly had he been hit. Vash didn't answer, his crying deepening into huge sobs that racked his lean body, his grief tearing at Meryl's heart.
Then Milly had understood, her light blue eyes widening in shock before she collapsed on the floor in grief. Meryl had found herself torn between comforting the man she loved and her best friend. In the end, she had gone to Milly, helping the girl to her room and staying with her until she had cried herself to sleep. Only then had she gone to be with Vash, but by then he was gone.
He had returned by morning, saying only that he had taken care of Wolfwood, and that had been it. All attempts by Meryl to talk to either of them about Wolfwood afterward was met by empty smiles by both Milly and Vash. Milly saying that she would be alright and Vash not willing to discuss it at all. She had never learned the name of the man responsible for killing Wolfwood, but she was sure that it had been one of Knives' followers, one of the Gung Ho Guns. She had truly hated Knives then, for causing so much pain to her friends.
When Vash had later bought Knives to their home to be cared for after their battle, Meryl had been against it. She had expected Milly to side with her, but the girl had been all for Knives staying with them. When Meryl had later asked her why, Milly had simply answered that Knives was Vash's brother and that he needed their help and that had been the end of the discussion. Knives had moved into the spare room and Vash and Milly took turns changing his bandages and feeding and caring for him.
She had gotten out of the chore by saying that since she worked two jobs she simply didn't have the time to babysit Knives. It had been true, she was busy with her jobs, but the look in Vash's eyes had almost broken her heart. He looked so hurt and disappointed by her words. He had almost immediately cheered up and said that he was proud of how hard she was working, but she knew that he had been upset to learn that she wasn't interested in helping his brother to recover.
When Knives had left after almost a year of living with them she had wanted to celebrate, but seeing how hurt Vash was that he couldn't change his brother's beliefs had kept her quiet. She had thought they were free of Knives forever, but now, here she was not only living with him again but helping him to raise a child as well.
She wondered, not for the first time, how Milly and Vash were. She wondered if Vash had ever come back at all. Milly had probably gone looking for her, but after so many months she was sure the girl had given up.
"Meryl, there's Knives." Locke's words interupted her thoughts and she turned to look down the street. Knives was standing on the sidewalk, just outside of the gunsmith shop.
When he caught her gaze he signaled for her to come before he turned his attention to the holster he now wore around his waist. As she watched him adjust the straps, she tensed in apprehension. Knives, with a weapon. This was not good.
She held Locke's hand tightly as she hurried toward him. Maybe if she could get him out of town before he randomly started shooting people everything would be okay.
Halfway to Knives, a large man stumbled out of the saloon and into her path, cursing loudly about the brightness of the suns. He turned and saw her, his eyes leering down at her through stringy dark hair.
Her grip on Locke's hand tightened even more and she stepped off the sidewalk and into the street to avoid having to pass too closely to the drunken man. She once again headed toward Knives but was stopped when a dirty and sweaty hand grabbed her wrist. Dragging her close to him, the man's lecherous gaze traveled over her small but shapely body. She recoiled and tried to pull away, but the man's grip only tightened. Crying out in pain, she released Locke, and tried to pry her wrist free from his grasp with her other hand.
She shut her eyes tightly as the man leaned down toward her, so close she could feel his alcohol tainted breath stirring her bangs. Then suddenly, she heard the man grunt in pain and her wrist was free. Opening her eyes, she saw that Knives now stood between her and her attacker.
And he looked pissed.
~
Meryl held Locke close to her body, trying to shield him from what was happening. Her attacker lifted a shocked hand to his face, surprised that anyone would dare to strike him. His eyes narrowed in anger as his hand came away covered in blood. Pulling his weapon from his holster, he swung around to aim it at Knives... and looked straight down the barrel of Knives' revolver. The man's eyes now widened in fear as he dropped his gun and raised his hands in surrender.
"Don't kill me! I didn't know she was your woman! Please, I promise not to bother her again! I swear!" The man broke down into sobs. Ignoring the man's now weaponless state, Knives cocked the hammer of his gun and aimed it squarely between the man's eyes.
"Knives, don't! Please, don't kill him!" Meryl cried out as she clutched Locke even closer. She didn't want him to see Knives kill someone in cold blood.
"Shut up! Don't you dare plead to me for this pathetic fool's life!" Knives eyes took on a wild look and sweat beaded his forehead. His voice was raised an octave higher than usual and his breath was coming in quick gasps.
Meryl's eyes widened as she realized what was happening. 'This is it... this is the Knives that wiped out thousands and tried to kill his own brother...'
"Stop that blubbering! At least have the decency to die like a man!" Knives lashed out and kicked the man hard in the face, breaking his nose and shattering teeth. Placing his boot on the man's neck he coldly re-aimed his gun and sneered down at him.
Meryl closed her eyes and held Locke closer as he buried his face in Meryl's chest. The small crowd that had gathered held it's collective breath and the only sound heard was Knives' harsh breathing, until--
'Click...'
The sound of a gun's hammer being cocked cut through the silence. Knives' aim never wavered, but he began to laugh in a way that sent shivers up Meryl's back.
"So, Brother... you finally came. I knew you would eventually." Meryl's eyes shot open at Knives' words. 'Brother!?'
Her eyes frantically searched the crowd until they focused on a tall blonde man holding a gun that was aimed directly at Knives' head. It was Vash the Stampede, and Meryl had never seen him look so angry.
Or so deadly.
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End chapter 7
~
angelarms: I wasn't really satisfied with the previous chapter, but I'm glad you liked it. I had to figure out a way to get Knives to take Meryl and Locke to town, and an 'apology' seemed like the best way.
Yma: Heh, I made you dread what was going to happen? I hope this chapter met with your expectations. And please, update your fic soon. I'm dying to know what happens next. ^_^
Neptune Butterfly: *giggles insanely* Your reviews are always so much fun to read. I hope you found this chapter exciting, and as for Knives and Meryl's relationship... keep reading, things may soon begin changing.
trapt-tears: He's illegaly downloading porn. No, I'm kidding! Knives is always working on ways to improve his equipment and data, and it's also been his excuse to avoid Meryl. When is the 'I'm-still-a-maniacal-killer' part of Knives coming out? Ummm... *points above* I think it's just happened...
~
There! I gave you guys Vash! I also gave you guys a cliffhanger. *dodges rocks*
Next time: The continuation of this chapter. What will happen between the two brothers!? Has Knives totally snapped or can something be done to head off the seemingly inevitable!? Or will Vash have to shoot Knives... again!?
Feedback, I crave it. So, please review and let me know if you liked this chapter. ^_^v
~
"..." is talking
'...' is thinking
Author's note: I finished writing this fic earlier this week, but today I thought up an idea for a new chapter (which I'm writing now) and since I don't know which chapters I'm going to insert it between, the chapter after this may take a little longer to post up. I'm sorry... please, don't hate me... _
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A Glimpse of Eden
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Chapter - 7
~
"Where are we going, Meryl?" Locke asked, absently running a hand over his now-short and spiky hair.
Scraping some scrambled eggs out of the frying pan and onto a plate, Meryl placed it on the table in front of Locke. "Into town. We need to buy some clothes and things."
"Oh..." He forked some eggs into his mouth. "Is Knives coming with us?"
"Don't talk with your mouth full, and yes, Knives is coming with us. He's driving."
Locke carefully chewed and swallowed before asking his next question. "What's a town like? Will there be lots of people there?"
Meryl sat down with her own plate. "Well... a town has alot of buildings, like stores and inns and houses. And yes, it has 'lots' of people."
She raised a forkfull of eggs to her mouth but stopped in surprise when Knives entered the room. He was wearing a pair of black jeans and his form-fitting, white button-down shirt had been left untucked. A long black leather coat and a pair of black work boots completed his ensemble. He caught her shocked expression and frowned.
"What?" He glanced down at himself and brushed absentmindedly at his shirt. "Is there something wrong?"
"No, no... it's just that..." she trailed off. His appearance had taken her completely by surprise. She was used to seeing him in his usual outfit, that grey and red jumpsuit thing he always wore. To see him dressed so normal was... weird.
He ran his fingers through his hair and gave her a confused look. "'It's just what?'"
She blushed and looked down. "I'm just not used to seeing you dressed like that," she finished lamely.
He came over and sat down next to Locke at the table and Meryl jumped up to fix his plate. She needed to give herself something to do. His appearance had really disarmed her. When he was dressed in his normal outfit she thought of him only as Vash's brother, the man who had caused Vash so much suffering. But now she was painfully aware at how physically attractive the man was and just how much he resembled Vash. He was lean but well-muscled, and his new clothes only helped to accentuate his body.
She carried the plate over and set it down in front of Knives. Keeping her eyes downcast she moved back to her chair and sat down. She could feel Knives' questioning gaze on the top of her head but she ignored it. Finally, he turned his attention to Locke and she resumed eating.
"What's this? You cut his hair?" He reached out and fingered a strand of Locke's newly cut blonde hair.
She glanced up in surprise. "Don't you think I should have? It was getting pretty long after all."
He ran his hand over Locke's short hair slowly, his expression thoughtful. "No, it's fine I suppose." He returned his attention back to his plate.
Meryl watched him add salt to his eggs and take a bite before she released the breath she had been holding. She had half expected Knives to threaten and berate her about how she hadn't asked his permission before going ahead and trimming Locke's hair. Maybe... after all these months he was finally changing, becoming less controlling and more tolerant towards her.
"Meryl..."
"Yes, Knives?"
"Do something like this again without my permission and see what I'll do to you."
She signed. Or maybe, he had just paused to think up a good threat.
She had a feeling it was going to be a long and difficult day.
~
They arrived in the town of Garrison after a long and difficult car ride. Knives had been quiet the entire way and Meryl had been kept busy trying to answer a million of Locke's questions. He seemed to have a question about everything, and Meryl tried to be patient and answer them all but...
"What's that, Meryl?"
She sighed. Following Locke's pointing finger she replied, "It's a thomas."
"What's it for?" he asked, his brow crinkled in thought.
"It's an animal used for transportation," she said simply.
"You ride on top of it?" he asked, a look of interest on his face.
"It's like a horse." Knives cut in. "Remember? From that book I showed you?"
"Oh..." Locke looked over at the thomas' odd appearance. "It looks funny."
Meryl grabbed Locke's hand and pulled him out of the street and toward a store, Knives following silently behind them. Entering the store she released Locke's hand and turned toward Knives.
"You can wait outside." She waved her hands at him in a shoo-ing motion. "I can handle this."
"Hurry and buy what you need." He crossed his arms, irritated. "We don't have all day."
Holding back a biting retort, she walked to the counter and greeted the clerk.
"Good morning, Miss. What can get for you today?"
She produced the list Knives had made out. "We need these things," she handed the clerk the list, "and I also need to buy some clothes."
The clerk glanced over the list and nodded. "I think I have everything on here."
Locke came over and shyly smiled at the man.
"And who's this?" The clerk leaned over the counter to smile at the boy. Glancing up at Meryl he asked, "Your son?"
Meryl sputtered in indignation. Surely she didn't look that old. She was barely in her mid 20s!
Not noticing Meryl's outraged reaction he spoke down to Locke. "How old are you, son?"
Locke looked at the floor and shyly replied, "Seven."
"Seven years old, huh? Well, here... have a treat on me." The man handed Locke a sucker.
As Locke politely thanked the man, Meryl smiled fondly at the boy. When he had said 'seven' he hadn't meant years, he had meant months.
"Is there a gunsmith shop around here?" Meryl stiffened as Knives came up behind her and addressed the clerk.
"Yes, sir. There's one across the street and a couple doors down."
"Thank you." he paused and then spoke down to Meryl. "Will you... be alright alone?"
She glanced up, surprised. She finally managed a nod and he handed her a roll of money.
"No need to worry," spoke up the clerk, grinning knowingly at her and Knives, "I'll take good care of your wife."
'Wife!?' Meryl choked and blushed furiously, trying to think of a response to the man's comment.
"Thank you," Knives smiled politely at the man, "I'm sure my 'wife' will be in very good hands." He turned and grinned cheerfully down at Meryl, pretending to be a happy and caring husband. His eyes danced with cold humor and Meryl had to resist the urge to wrap her hands around his throat and throttle him. Any retort she might have come up with was cut short when Knives abruptly turned and walked toward the exit.
"Hey! Just where are you going? I'm not through with you! Get back here!" she yelled across the store and shook a fist at Knives' retreating back. Stopping at the threshold, he glanced back toward an angry and extremely irritated Meryl.
"When you're done here, meet me across the street and we'll have lunch at the bar." Not bothering to wait for a reply, he raised a hand in farewell and continued out of the store, quickly disappearing from her sight.
She crossed her arms and forced herself to calm down. Knives certainly had a warped sense of humor.
Her eyes widened as she realized what had just occured. Knives had just left her alone.
'Does he... finally believe my promise not to run away?'
Smiling, she turned back to the counter to look through the store's clothing selection.
~
Meryl watched the clerk write up the final bill. It would eat up much of the money Knives had left her, but they had needed alot of things. She had bought clothes for Locke and herself and the other things Knives had written down. She had also bought extra clothes that were too large for Locke now but that he would grow into. With her not knowing when she would get to town again she felt she had better.
"It will take a while for me to wrap all your purchases." The clerk handed her the change. "But when you're done with your meal come back and I'll have everything ready for you."
"Thank you." She took Locke's hand and walked outside.
Scanning the street she quickly located the bar Knives had mentioned. Holding Locke's hand tighter she crossed the street and entered the building. Inside she found Knives, quietly sitting at a table looking over a menu.
"Did you get everything?" he asked, not looking up from the menu.
"Yes, thank you." She handed him the change, which he took without comment. "It cost more than I had thought, but we have plenty of supplies now."
She sat at the table in the chair directly across from his and opened a menu, glancing over the choices. When the waiter approached she was still trying to decide between the spaghetti or the meatloaf. Knives pulled the menu out of her hands and ordered for them all.
"We'll have the veal." The waiter nodded and left.
"Knives! I can order for myself!" She raised her hand to try and get the waiter's attention.
He reached across the table and pulled her hand down. "You'll have the veal and like it," he said tersely, his eyes narrowed.
She frowned. He may have shown that he trusted her slightly by leaving her unsupervised for a few minutes, but he was showing her that he was still in complete control. She crossed her arms and decided to ignore him.
He frowned, slightly surprised and disapointed that she hadn't argued with him. He found that he quite enjoyed verbally sparing with the girl and that watching her get angry or irritated over his comments was extremely amusing.
The waiter brought their food and drinks and then departed. They ate in silence, listening to the steady hum of conversation going on around them.
"Meryl..." Locke tugged on her arm. "I need a napkin."
She looked around the table for one, but the waiter had apparently forgotten to bring any.
"Don't worry, I'll go and get us some." She stood and made her way over to the bar to ask for some, aware that many of the bar's male customers were now watching her. She heard some whispered comments and blushed, conscious of the fact that she no longer had her derringers for protection.
Grabbing a handful of napkins from off the counter, she turned to head back to the table and was surprised to find Knives standing directly in front of her, blocking her way. Casting a narrowed glance around the room, he took the napkins from her with one hand and then lightly brushed a finger across her cheek with his other. Surprised, her blush deepened.
"Knives... what are you...!?"
Silencing her with a look, he took hold of her upper-arms and roughly pulled her against him, her head ending up resting on his chest. He then aimed a dark glare at the crowd of men gathered at the bar who had only moments before been openly leering at Meryl. His meaning was clear. She belonged to him.
The men returned their attention back to their drinks and Knives abruptly released her and walked back to their table. Plunking back down in his seat, he handed a napkin to Locke and casually resumed eating. Meryl self-consciously made her way back to their table and sat down.
"And just what was... that about!?" she asked, trying hard to remain calm.
He glanced up, taking note of her clenched fists and angry glare. "I was merely demonstrating to those men that you weren't to be bothered. Was that wrong?"
"You could have done it some other way!"
He blinked. "I could have. But I chose the most effective way."
"But... that was embarassing!" she squeeked out, her right eyebrow starting to twitch.
"Why?" he asked innocently.
"Because... because you made it look like you... and that I... argh! It just was!" Standing up, she took Locke's hand and made for the exit. She had the feeling that if she didn't leave right now, her lunch might very well end up all over Knives' fat head.
"Hey, Meryl!"
She turned and glared at him. He had that smug look on his face, obviously pleased with himself at having made her lose her temper. "What!?"
"Where are you going?" he asked with a hint of amusement.
She paused, a look of momentary confusion on her face. Where was she going? He had upset her so much she had forgotten where she was headed. Oh, yeah...
"I'm going to see if the supplies are ready!" she yelled, having to bite her tongue to keep herself calling him an obscenity.
"Oh, alright. I'll meet you outside the gunsmith's when you're done." He waved the waiter over for the bill.
Seething, she marched out of the bar with Locke in tow. How dare that man embarass her like that! She walked across the street and into the store, determined that when she came out again she would have her anger under control. That, or she would punch Knives right in his smug face and to hell with the consequences!
~
Meryl placed the last package in the car's trunk and then slammed it shut. She had calmed down since leaving the bar, but she was still bothered by what had happened. Not so much at what Knives had done, but at her own reaction to his touch.
She reached up a hand to lightly touch her check. What was wrong with her lately? First she practically drools at the man during breakfast, and now here she was all upset and giddy over a simple touch. She blushed. Why did he have such an affect on her?
Knives was the man who had killed thousands, perhaps millions if you counted the Great Fall, and dreamed of the day when he could finish off the rest. And even though he himself hadn't pulled the trigger, he was also responsible for the death of Wolfwood. She could feel the tears forming as she recalled that horrible day.
Vash had come in with tears in his eyes, brokenly whispering that he had something to tell her and Milly, and then he had sat down at the table, looking every bit of his 130 years. Between his tears, he had finally managed to say that Wolfwood had been shot. Milly had gone pale and then started for the door, asking where Wolfwood was now and how badly had he been hit. Vash didn't answer, his crying deepening into huge sobs that racked his lean body, his grief tearing at Meryl's heart.
Then Milly had understood, her light blue eyes widening in shock before she collapsed on the floor in grief. Meryl had found herself torn between comforting the man she loved and her best friend. In the end, she had gone to Milly, helping the girl to her room and staying with her until she had cried herself to sleep. Only then had she gone to be with Vash, but by then he was gone.
He had returned by morning, saying only that he had taken care of Wolfwood, and that had been it. All attempts by Meryl to talk to either of them about Wolfwood afterward was met by empty smiles by both Milly and Vash. Milly saying that she would be alright and Vash not willing to discuss it at all. She had never learned the name of the man responsible for killing Wolfwood, but she was sure that it had been one of Knives' followers, one of the Gung Ho Guns. She had truly hated Knives then, for causing so much pain to her friends.
When Vash had later bought Knives to their home to be cared for after their battle, Meryl had been against it. She had expected Milly to side with her, but the girl had been all for Knives staying with them. When Meryl had later asked her why, Milly had simply answered that Knives was Vash's brother and that he needed their help and that had been the end of the discussion. Knives had moved into the spare room and Vash and Milly took turns changing his bandages and feeding and caring for him.
She had gotten out of the chore by saying that since she worked two jobs she simply didn't have the time to babysit Knives. It had been true, she was busy with her jobs, but the look in Vash's eyes had almost broken her heart. He looked so hurt and disappointed by her words. He had almost immediately cheered up and said that he was proud of how hard she was working, but she knew that he had been upset to learn that she wasn't interested in helping his brother to recover.
When Knives had left after almost a year of living with them she had wanted to celebrate, but seeing how hurt Vash was that he couldn't change his brother's beliefs had kept her quiet. She had thought they were free of Knives forever, but now, here she was not only living with him again but helping him to raise a child as well.
She wondered, not for the first time, how Milly and Vash were. She wondered if Vash had ever come back at all. Milly had probably gone looking for her, but after so many months she was sure the girl had given up.
"Meryl, there's Knives." Locke's words interupted her thoughts and she turned to look down the street. Knives was standing on the sidewalk, just outside of the gunsmith shop.
When he caught her gaze he signaled for her to come before he turned his attention to the holster he now wore around his waist. As she watched him adjust the straps, she tensed in apprehension. Knives, with a weapon. This was not good.
She held Locke's hand tightly as she hurried toward him. Maybe if she could get him out of town before he randomly started shooting people everything would be okay.
Halfway to Knives, a large man stumbled out of the saloon and into her path, cursing loudly about the brightness of the suns. He turned and saw her, his eyes leering down at her through stringy dark hair.
Her grip on Locke's hand tightened even more and she stepped off the sidewalk and into the street to avoid having to pass too closely to the drunken man. She once again headed toward Knives but was stopped when a dirty and sweaty hand grabbed her wrist. Dragging her close to him, the man's lecherous gaze traveled over her small but shapely body. She recoiled and tried to pull away, but the man's grip only tightened. Crying out in pain, she released Locke, and tried to pry her wrist free from his grasp with her other hand.
She shut her eyes tightly as the man leaned down toward her, so close she could feel his alcohol tainted breath stirring her bangs. Then suddenly, she heard the man grunt in pain and her wrist was free. Opening her eyes, she saw that Knives now stood between her and her attacker.
And he looked pissed.
~
Meryl held Locke close to her body, trying to shield him from what was happening. Her attacker lifted a shocked hand to his face, surprised that anyone would dare to strike him. His eyes narrowed in anger as his hand came away covered in blood. Pulling his weapon from his holster, he swung around to aim it at Knives... and looked straight down the barrel of Knives' revolver. The man's eyes now widened in fear as he dropped his gun and raised his hands in surrender.
"Don't kill me! I didn't know she was your woman! Please, I promise not to bother her again! I swear!" The man broke down into sobs. Ignoring the man's now weaponless state, Knives cocked the hammer of his gun and aimed it squarely between the man's eyes.
"Knives, don't! Please, don't kill him!" Meryl cried out as she clutched Locke even closer. She didn't want him to see Knives kill someone in cold blood.
"Shut up! Don't you dare plead to me for this pathetic fool's life!" Knives eyes took on a wild look and sweat beaded his forehead. His voice was raised an octave higher than usual and his breath was coming in quick gasps.
Meryl's eyes widened as she realized what was happening. 'This is it... this is the Knives that wiped out thousands and tried to kill his own brother...'
"Stop that blubbering! At least have the decency to die like a man!" Knives lashed out and kicked the man hard in the face, breaking his nose and shattering teeth. Placing his boot on the man's neck he coldly re-aimed his gun and sneered down at him.
Meryl closed her eyes and held Locke closer as he buried his face in Meryl's chest. The small crowd that had gathered held it's collective breath and the only sound heard was Knives' harsh breathing, until--
'Click...'
The sound of a gun's hammer being cocked cut through the silence. Knives' aim never wavered, but he began to laugh in a way that sent shivers up Meryl's back.
"So, Brother... you finally came. I knew you would eventually." Meryl's eyes shot open at Knives' words. 'Brother!?'
Her eyes frantically searched the crowd until they focused on a tall blonde man holding a gun that was aimed directly at Knives' head. It was Vash the Stampede, and Meryl had never seen him look so angry.
Or so deadly.
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End chapter 7
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angelarms: I wasn't really satisfied with the previous chapter, but I'm glad you liked it. I had to figure out a way to get Knives to take Meryl and Locke to town, and an 'apology' seemed like the best way.
Yma: Heh, I made you dread what was going to happen? I hope this chapter met with your expectations. And please, update your fic soon. I'm dying to know what happens next. ^_^
Neptune Butterfly: *giggles insanely* Your reviews are always so much fun to read. I hope you found this chapter exciting, and as for Knives and Meryl's relationship... keep reading, things may soon begin changing.
trapt-tears: He's illegaly downloading porn. No, I'm kidding! Knives is always working on ways to improve his equipment and data, and it's also been his excuse to avoid Meryl. When is the 'I'm-still-a-maniacal-killer' part of Knives coming out? Ummm... *points above* I think it's just happened...
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There! I gave you guys Vash! I also gave you guys a cliffhanger. *dodges rocks*
Next time: The continuation of this chapter. What will happen between the two brothers!? Has Knives totally snapped or can something be done to head off the seemingly inevitable!? Or will Vash have to shoot Knives... again!?
Feedback, I crave it. So, please review and let me know if you liked this chapter. ^_^v
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