The Ace and the Dragon

by DragonJenna

Wandering the desert like normal, Vash comes across an injured woman from another world. He helps her out and she tags along. What crazy things will happen now? (Occurs after July, but before the series.)

12. Caravan

Hello everybody! Again I appologize for my updates being few and far between. I will assure you that I am working on this story and doing my best with the little time I have between work and other projects I have to get done. Summer hours start and I'll be home earlier in the day so I hope to be able to write alot more and update more often. (But then I've said that before and life happens 0P) Anyway, here's chapter 11, hope you like it, let me know what you think, etc. Later Gaters 0)

Chapter Eleven – Caravan

The caravan was a large group of various sized automobiles, from cars, to trucks, to a good-sized sand steamer. It was stretched out over a far amount of distance. Vash's group watched for a few moments as the workers scurried here and there, putting together the last few minor details before they headed off.

To the left of the end of the caravan was a large group of approximately fifty men gathered around a flat bed truck. Vash nudged Jenna and inclined his head in that direction. She followed him over and the stood at the back of the group.

The man that was standing in the bed of the truck looked up from his clipboard as they approached. After squinting and shielding his eyes from the sun glare, he smiled and called out, "Ah Mr. Wolf, Miss Saradin! How nice of you to finally join us." Jenna and Vash recognized the voice belonging to Leonard Smith. He made two marks on the board and looked up again and addressed the whole group. "Now that we are all here, lets go over the terms shall we?" Clearing his throat he began, "Now, let me make this very clear. All of you will be paid in full when it reaches Mercia safely! And not a penny sooner."

"How much!" someone yelled from the group of men, a few more chorused in a "Yeah!"

"Well, lets see." Smith said as he began to leaf through his papers, "Ah! Here it is! $$300 a day."

There was a general murmur of consent through the group of men. It must have been a good amount cause Vash was grinning from ear to ear.

"All right, I'm leaving it up to you to decide how its done, but I want this caravan guarded well and kept under control, got that! If anything happens out there I will hold each and every one of you responsible." Then he turned to a man in a gray coat and brown hat, standing a little bit away from the rest of the men, "Now Mr. Stampede, since you have, er, the most experience in this matter, I am putting you in charge." Turning back to the rest of the group, "Good luck gentlemen, See you in Mercia." With that he jumped from the truck and strode off towards the main office buildings.

Jenna snorted and turned to Vash, "Well that was dumb."

"What was?" he asked her.

"Putting the imposter in charge."

Vash shrugged, "He probably did it cause he was scared of what might happen if he didn't."

Jenna turned back to the truck where the man in the gray coat and hat had just climbed up on. Then she crossed her arms, pursing her lips as she studied him. Something wasn't right. She could feel it in the air around her. When she went to touch the imposters mind, it was closed off from her. Although it wasn't uncommon for humans to be able to shield their minds, it was rare. Before she could voice her concern, the impostor began to speak.

"All right people listen up." His voice was a soft but very firm tenor and he spoke with such confidence that Jenna almost believed that he could have been the real Vash the Stampede. "There arefifty-two names on this list. I want four groups ofthirteen evenly spaced along the caravan. One at the head, two in the middle and one coming up behind. I…"

As he spoke he was surveying the group and abruptly stopped when he spotted Jenna and Vash. They watched the imposter jump off the back of the truck and slowly approach them. He was a couple inches shorter than Vash, with cool blue eyes and long black hair that was pulled back into a ponytail at the nape of his neck. His face was handsome with high cheekbones and the chiseled look of one who spent a lot of time on the road. His coat was long and gray, hiding a handgun and a rifle that they both cought a glimpse of when the wind blew. He had a red handkerchief around his neck, a plain white shirt and jeans with knee high black boots.

Vash watched as the imposter stopped in front of Jenna, fists clenched and jaw muscles tight. Vash couldn't understand, but for some reason he was feeling very protective of the woman standing next to him, and was ready in case this imposter tried anything.

"Well Miss," the imposter began with an arrogant smile, as he looked Jenna up and down "I think you are in the wrong area. The woman folk are in the sand steamer. Please allow some of my men to escort you there."

Jenna smiled a cold smile in return, "I am not mistaken. I was hired by Mr. Smith the same as you Mr. Stampede. I am where I am supposed to be and await my orders."

The imposter laughed, as well as the rest of the men in the group. Vash gulped. This isn't going too well is it? he thought to his other two companions.

Fantus answered Nope, and Cyric shook his head, causing the other 'Vash' to notice him.

"And what is this beast that is behind you?" he said calmly.

Uh oh, that's not good. came the worried thought from Fantus.

What? asked Vash.

He insulted my friend. No one insults my friends. Jenna growled in all their heads. Then she answered the question with a forced calm, "He is my horse and my friend. And I warn you, insult him or any of my other companions and you will not live to see another sun rise."

Vash shuddered inwardly as he listened to her. "Jenna, you promised," he said to her quietly

I know and I will not break it unless you release me of it. Jenna said in Vash's head. Closeing her eyes she took a deep breath calming herself. When she opened them she looked at Imposter Vash (as they now refered to him as) with such fierceness that he took a step backwards.

Jenna smiled her cold smile again and said, "Now that I have made myself clear, can we get this show on the road?"

Vash rolled his eyes.

Imposter Vash looked a little startled, and then quickly regained his composure. Stepping back Imposter Vash addressed the rest of the group, "All right I want those groups formed now. Miss…?"

"Saradin." Jenna supplied.

"Miss Saradin and her companions up front. The rest of you spread out!" Turning back to Jenna he said, "I want you and your horse to act as a scout. You will report back to me directly understood."

Jenna nodded and looked and Vash, "C'mon Wolf, lets go." Vash nodded and followed her to the front of the line.

Jenna looked at him and noticed he had put his sunglasses on again and he was wearing a very stone-faced expression. She nudged him with her elbow. "Hey, What's with you?"

Vash grunted, but didn't answer.

She stopped and looked at him, "Are you jealous Mr. Wolf?" she asked with a hint of amusement in her voice.

Vash stopped and turned around, "No." he lied very unconvincingly.

She laughed at him, "Now who's in denial?"

"I'm not jealous. I just don't trust this Imposter Vash, that's all."

"Uh huh." Jenna said with a twitch of a smile and a raise of her eyebrow.

Vash turned on his heel and walked off towards the front of the line. He didn't know why that creep made him so furious. He'd dealt with many of his kind before. It should have just been a cut and dry thing. He does his job, the imposter tries something, and he stops him and saves the day. But something about this was different. Something about the way that man looked at Jenna, the way he moved and the way…. Vash realized what it was. She was right. He was jealous. Why? Why did he have the sudden urge to punch in that arrogant bastard's face? What the hell am I talking about? She was never mine to begin with. Vash! What the hell is wrong with you!

"Your jealous of a man that she obviously already hates, and wanting a woman whom you can't have." he muttered out loud to himself. The sudden epiphany hit him like a thunderbolt. He stood there stunned. Oh God, I'm doomed.

"What's a matter lad? You lost or something?"

Vash looked up and saw an older man standing in front of him. He had brown hair and a pleasant face. He was wearing a broad brimmed hat, jeans, a blue shirt and a brown vest that matched his boots. Vash shook his head to clear his muddled thoughts and said "What?"

The man repeated his question, "You lost?"

Just then, Vash realized that Jenna wasn't near him. "Yeah. I think so." he said bewildered as he looked around for her.

"Your with the woman aren't you?" the man asked as he began to lead Vash to where he was supposed to go.

"Yeah. She was here just a moment ago. I seemed to have lost her." Vash said, still looking for Jenna.

"No you didn't. She lost you." the man replied with a chuckle.

Vash looked at him like he was nuts, "What do you mean?"

"After that spat you walked off, she mounted that beast of hers and passed you with out you even noticing." He chuckled again, "That must have been some quarrel."

Vash looked at the man speechless. His mouth tried to move, but somehow it wasn't working.

The man laughed and held out his hand, "I'm Peter Green. I'll be your partner for this ride Mr. Wolf; since your original one has her own job to do."

Vash took the proffered hand and shook it, smiling. "Nice to meet you Peter Green."

"Pleasures all mine, and she's over there." Green pointed with a knowing smile on his face to where Jenna was standing with Cyric and the other 'Vash.' "I'll meet you at the jeep." and he walked off.

Vash turned cold watching her talking with the imposter. Things seemed casual enough, but something about that man set Vash's teeth on edge. Shaking the premonition from his mind he walked over to where they were standing. As he approached, the other 'Vash' made a hasty farewell and walked off.

"What'd he want?" Vash asked with a little more vehemence then he wanted to.

Those perfect ears didn't miss a thing. She quirked her head so she was looking him in the eye, "He just wanted to try one last time to persuade me to go with the other women." She rolled her eyes in annoyance, "Why is it that men can't seem to grasp the fact that women can fight too?" she asked him. Vash shrugged. He was watching the imposter retreat to his own car. Jenna followed his gaze. "You know Vash," he turned back to look at her, "He's not getting anywhere near me."

Vash looked a little guilty. She moved closer and laughed. She stood on her tiptoes and kissed him on the cheek. "Stop worrying."

Vash watched her in stunned silence swing up onto Cyric's back. When she looked back at him, she was all business again.

"Fantus! I want you to stay with Vash and the rest of the caravan." she barked out the command like she was the one in charge. Flashing Vash a quick smile, she dug her heels into Cyric's flanks and rode to the head of the column, leaving Vash standing by himself with Fantus on his shoulder, the drake pouting at being left behind.

It took all of his self-control to keep from running after her. Vash shook himself and began to walking towards the jeep. A little smile creased his face as he put his hand over his cheak where Jenna just kissed him. "Maybe there's hope after all." Vash said as his small smile became a grin.

"That's some woman you've got there." Green said with an appraising look in Jenna's direction.

"Huh? Oh, um she's not mine." Vash laughed nervously, the grin not quite leaving his face. "She doesn't belong to anyone."

Green smiled, "Is that so?" but his eyes told Vash that he didn't believe him.

Fantus snorted, Got that right! Only one man has ever tamed her, but if my suspicions are correct… He mused to himself. When Cyric gets back we are having a nice long talk about our Lady.

Green had jumped back at the flame that shot out of Fantus' nose and was looking at Vash with wide frightened eyes, "What is that thing!" he breathed.

Fantus and Vash exchanged looks, "This is my friend Fantus, he's uh, well…" Vash didn't quite know how to explain Fantus.

"Incredible!" said Green in an awed voice. He leaned forward to better inspect the bright green lizard.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you." warned Vash, "Fire tends to shoot out of him at unexpected times."

Fantus turned to him and putting his hands on his hips, stuck his forked tongue out at him.

Vash just smiled his goofy grin and turned back to Green. "So, when do we get this show on the road?" he asked thankful that Green's attention was not elsewhere.

Green grunted, folded his arms, and leaned against the jeep. "When ever his high and mighty says we can go. If I were Smith, I wouldn't have let that bastard anywhere near this caravan." Vash and Fantus winced. "I don't trust him." he finished.

"Funny, Jenna said the same thing." Vash said, trying to sound unaffected by what Green had just said.

"Jenna, that's the girls name?" asked Green. Vash nodded, his gaze going unconsciously over to where she and Cyric were waiting for the caravan to move. "She's a pretty little thing. I would keep a good eye on her if I were you. I think Vash the Stampede has his eye on her, along with every other man in the caravan."

"Yeah like you didn't notice." Fantus said with a snicker under his breath.

Vash gave him a dirty look, Will you shut up you little monster! No one asked you! Vash was blushing behind his sunglasses. Fantus began to snicker all the more.

Before Vash could say anything more, a shot rang out and some one shouted "Load up and move out!"

"C'mon Wolf, lets get going." Green said as he moved to open the driver's side of the door. Vash walked around to the passenger side and got in. Fantus jumped down to his lap and sat straight up, like a cat, as he watched out of the windshield.

"Good Lord! That things got wings!" Green exclaimed.

Fantus obligingly stretched them out so Green could better see them.

"Show off." Vash said.

Fantus sat even more proudly as he re-folded his wings. Vash rolled his eyes and Green started the car, eyes still wide.

"Well let's get this show on the road." said Green. And they were finally moving. Vash prayed that Jenna's Mahiza Rhai wouldn't show her face.

Jenna sat upon Cyric on a hill that over looked the whole caravan. She shaded her eyes as she looked out over the mile long train of those weird horseless carriages these people used as transportation. She spotted Vash leaning against one of the machines, talking to some one. Her augmented sight allowed her to see that he was an older man, wearing a hat, a blue shirt and jeans. He seemed to be friendly, and Vash seemed to be enjoying his company. She felt Vash had a good judge of character so the man couldn't be bad.

Thinking about the gunman made her gaze drift back to him. He wasn't hard to find, that red coat of his made him easy to see. She smiled as she remembered the look on his face when she kissed his cheek. She blushed slightly. She didn't know why she did it; it just felt like the right thing to do at the time.

Before she could begin to berate herself for letting her emotions get the better of her, a shot rang out and some one yelled for the caravan to get moving.

You ready? She asked Cyric.

He whinnied a joyous sound and reared before he took off.

Jenna laughed at him as they raced across the desert "I take that as a yes!" she shouted above the wind. He flicked his head as he ran.

She let him gallop at his leisure until they were about a half a mile ahead of the caravan. Then she reined him into a trot. "I think we are at a good enough distance to begin our scouting." Then she scowled, "Not like there is much to scout out. All of my worries are back at the caravan." Unconsciously she turned around to look at the large dust cloud that marked where the caravan was.

Cyric chuckled, "I wouldn't worry about him. He's lasted this long I'm sure he can take care of himself."

Jenna snorted, "Who said I'm worried about him? Just concerned that some one will recognize him for who he is and he'll get hurt again." She turned back and shaded her eyes as she began to scan the terrain in front of her. "That idiot gets in enough trouble on his own that I don't want another starting it for him."

"Who Fantus?" Cyric asked slyly.

"No, Vash. I…"

Cyric began to shake with laughter, the force of which caused him to stop moving.

Jenna had been caught. "Cyric you tricked me." she growled.

"No I didn't. I simply stated that 'He' would be all right. Which 'He' you put in there was entirely up to you." He turned his head so he could look into her stunned and blushing face. "Fantus and I aren't blind girl." Then he looked back ahead and moved forward without another word.

Jenna growled at him under her breath, but chose not to rise to his bait. Instead she concentrated on the landscape ahead. They were entering into a type of canyon. The rock walls were not solid, but they were close enough together to give Jenna the feeling of being enclosed. She hated that feeling. She was a dragon, born to fly, to be free and soar. She scowled at the walls of the canyon and turned her eyes to the skyline. She watched the puffy white clouds drift over the rocks, and through the gaps between.

Together, Cyric and Jenna traveled in silence, watching the rocks around them. Occasionally they would see a bird fly, or a large animal of some sort, and Jenna would contact it with her mind, learning how the animals of this world behaved, and getting a report of things to expect a head.

It was around noon when Jenna saw another large flying animal soaring above. She tapped Cyric on the shoulder and said, "Should I ask our friend if there is a place to stop ahead for lunch? I'm getting hungry and this is just stupid to continue. There's nothing out here for miles!"

Cyric nodded and snorted his agreement. "I need to stop and rest. These rocks are starting to get stuck in my hooves."

Jenna closed her eyes and let her mind go, drifting up into the sky until it came in contact with the creature above her. Very gently she touched its mind and slowly got a response. She smiled a comforting smile in the creatures mind, reassuring it that she meant no harm. Then, using images, she asked it where a good place was for the large "snake," as she had learned the aerial creatures called the caravan, could rest for a while. Jenna heard the creature bellow loudly, and showed her a place in her mind where the rocks of the canyon fell away and left a large open area. She thanked the creature and withdrew into her own mind. With a soft sigh she came into herself and opened her eyes. "I hate being grounded." she muttered to herself, then more loudly she said, "Our friend says that there is a large open place just up ahead. We should reach it in a few minutes and I can check your hooves for you."

True to the creature's word, they entered into the large rubble strewn clearing not two minutes later. Cyric stopped and neighed uncertainly, "If I didn't know any better, I would think that there had been a wizard's duel here."

Jenna nodded in agreement, "These rocks look like they have been blasted, not knocked over naturally." She dismounted and began to inspect the charred rocks in front of her. Jenna turned back to Cyric, "This doesn't look like anything I've ever seen before." She walked over and rubbed Cyric's neck, "We'll have to ask Vash when he gets here what he thinks of all this. Now, for those hooves of yours."

Twenty minutes later Jenna had picked out several large stones from Cyric's hooves. She stood back up and dusted off her hands. "There, feel better?" Cyric nodded and stomped each hoof in turn. "Good. Now to contact Vash and let him know where to tell his High and Mighty to stop."

Cyric snorted, "I thought you were to report directly to his High and Mighty."

"Yes, that was what I was ordered to do, but since when do I follow orders?" Jenna winked at him.

"Oh Gods, here we go again." Cyric rolled his eyes in exasperation as Jenna closed her eyes to contact Vash.

Vash meanwhile was bored out of his mind sitting in the car, watching what seemed like the same scenery over and over again. Fantus was asleep in his lap, Green had exhausted every story about his wife and family, and since Vash didn't like to talk about himself for obvious reasons, conversations came to a stand still. He leaned on the doorframe with his elbow outside the car and his head in his hand. Man, I wish Jenna were here. She may be irritating, but at least she's more entertaining than this! He heaved an over dramatic sigh. Well, I guess I shouldn't complain too much, if things stay this quiet, this job is going to be cake. He closed his eyes, imagining her in her leathers, letting his brain take it where it wanted too. He was just about to kiss her when the dream Jenna smacked him upside the head. Vash opened his eyes with a start. Even in my dreams she still hits me! He thought as he absently rubbed the back of his head.

You weren't dreaming Pin Head. I did hit you, well sort of.

Vash let out an embarrassed squeak and began to panic. Green looked over at him, "Are you alright?" he asked, raising an eyebrow in question.

"Oh yeah I'm great! HAHA!" Vash laughed nervously.

Green shrugged and went back to driving the car. Vash went back to panicking.

What the hell are you doing sneaking into a man's head for! It's not right! He did his best to send the thought only to her.

Uh huh. Well it can't really be helped when I am trying to contact you and find myself trapped in one of your little fantasies. It's nice to know you care so much. She said with a hint of playfulness and sarcasm.

Vash felt himself blushing, but sensed that he wasn't the only one. That some how made him feel just a little better about being caught. I can explain everything! See I was bored and wondering what you were doing…

Stop! Jenna said. I really don't want to know what is going on in that spiky head of yours at the moment. I was just trying to get a hold of you so you could tell Imposter Vash that there is a place to rest up ahead.

Oh? And what makes you think he's going to listen to me? And if he did listen to me, what makes you think he's gonna want to stop? Besides, your supposed to report to him directly, remember? Vash said acidly.

Vash felt Jenna sigh in exasperation. I don't know he's going to stop or if he's going to listen to you, and yes those were my orders, but I'm not exactly in a position to let him know now am I? But you are. And I trust you. She added.

Gee thanks.

Would you stop being so childish and just go tell him, or at least send Fantus or something.

All right all right. But I'm not going to do this every time you need to get that loser a message.

Fine, I'll keep that in mind. She mocked him. Then she was all business, We are a half an hour ahead of you, well, more like twenty minutes now. I'll see you then, all right?

Yeah, see ya. Vash pouted.

He heard her laughter in his head, Vash, would you stop feeling jealous already? I just asked you to tell him that I found a place to stop, not that I wanted a date or anything! You can be such a baby some times.

He still felt her smiling at him. And it drove him nuts. Sor-ry! I'll let him know and talk to you later!

She laughed again, No your not! And thank you. Then she was gone.

After grumbling under his breath about it not being fair that she always got the last word and having to be right, he nudged Fantus in his lap. "Hey Fantus, I need you to do something for me." he whispered

"Huh what?" he asked sleepily. He stretched his fore legs in front of him and yawed a big yawn showing all of his needle sharp teeth.

"Jenna just found a place to stop for a bit. I need you to go tell," he looked over at Green, who seemed to be off in his own world, then held up his hands and made quotes with his fingers " 'Vash' for me, er, I mean her."

"Why did she talk to you?" Fantus asked indignantly.

"Because you were asleep stupid. Now go tell him."

Fantus glared at him, "Please?" Vash pleaded.

"Alright, I'll go." Fantus jumped onto the windowsill muttering, "Sleep never stopped her before." and took off into the sky towards the lead vehicle.

Fantus caught a breeze and used it to maneuver his way over to Imposter Vash's jeep. He hovered over the back bar of the roll-cage, folded his wings and gracefully landed, perching behind Imposer Vash and the three other men with him. They hadn't seen him land so Fantus decided to listen in on their conversation.

"I tell you I've seen that guy before!" said a dark haired tall man in the back seat.

"Shut up Howard! Anyone could have seen anyone before!" said the man next to him.

"You shut up Rick." Howard turned and leaned forward so he was between the two front seats, "I'm telling ya boss! I think we have a problem. I've seen that blond guy before in areas where Vash the Stampede has been seen! I really think its him."

"Oh please!" said the man in the front seat. "What would the real Stampede be doing guarding a caravan and traveling with a woman? The guys a psychopath not to mention a huge womanizer, he's not a goody-two-shoes."

Fantus smiled to himself, That's what you think!

"Quiet all of you!" Imposter Vash snapped. Immediately all three passengers shut their mouths to listen. "I want no more of this 'Real Vash' talk. As far as everyone in the caravan is concerned I am the real Vash, understood?" All three nodded their understanding. "Good. But just in case Howard is right, I want him watched. If it turns out it is him, we may have to take action." Fantus gulped and watched as Imposter Vash laughed an evil chuckle. "I think we need to watch that woman too. If she's working with him, you can bet she'll be just as much trouble as he is. Maybe, we can even coerce her into double crossing him…" Imposter Vash seemed to be talking to himself now.

Fantus didn't stick around to hear the rest of Imposter Vash's musings. He unfurled his wings and took off back to where Vash was.

Vash was idly watching the other jeep when he saw Fantus suddenly take off. Uh-oh. Something is wrong. He thought as he watched Fantus soar over and land on the jeep. "What's up?" he asked the green drake.

Fantus opened his mouth to speak when Green said, "Wow! That was amazing! He flies just as nimbly as those hawk-birds them rich people always have."

Fantus looked from Vash to Green and grumbled. Green looked at Vash for an explanation.

"Uh he says thank you." Vash answered. Fantus shot Vash a look, Vash shrugged at him.

Green smiled and said "Tell him he's welcome." Then went back to driving.

Ok what's wrong? Why didn't you answer Green? Vash asked Fantus.

Because I think it's best if Imposter Vash doesn't know I can talk, or understand what's going on. Fantus replied.

Vash crossed his arms over his chest and looked over the rim of his glasses. I take it you found out something.

One of them thinks he recognizes you. Fantus began. Vash's eyes narrowed as he listened to Fantus' story.

So, Fantus finished, I think I am better help if I pretend to be a dumb animal and do some watching of my own.

I think you could be right. Should we contact Jenna now? Or wait till we meet up with her? Vash asked Fantus.

Don't need to.

Vash and Fantus both jumped.

You two were talking loud enough that I heard most of the conversation from here! Jenna said. I take it then you didn't tell him about the lunch stop?

No. Both said sheepishly.

Oh well. Doesn't matter now. You should be here in a few minutes, you were closer than I origonally thought. We can talk more then.

All right. Both said still sounding sheepish.

Jenna laughed at them.

"What's so funny?" Cyric asked Jenna as she broke contact.

"Oh nothing. Vash and Fantus were both broadcasting." Then she sighed. "What I was afraid of has happened." Jenna was sitting on one of the rocks. She looked up and squinted at the unicorn. "One of Imposter Vash's men recognizes Vash. So we've now been marked." She threw a rock off into the distance.

Cyric stamped his foot, "We were marked as soon as Your Highness swaggered in and threw your womanhood in the jerks face!"

Jenna looked up and gave the unicorn a dirty look, but said nothing. She threw another rock across the clearing. The sounds of the cars were growing closer. She looked over at the entrance to the canyon and saw the dust cloud growing larger. "They're here." She stood up and leaned against the unicorn. "Those mechanical charriages of theirs move a lot faster than I would have expected."

Cyric snorted in agreement.

Imposter Vash's jeep was first to arrive, followed by one holding four men Jenna didn't recognize, then Vash's jeep. After them came the actual caravan. She watched as the front passenger of Imposter Vash's jeep stood up and signaled the rest to stop. Once things stopped moving, Imposter Vash jumped out and walked toward where Jenna was standing.

As Jenna walked towards the caravan with Cyric right behind her, Imposter Vash yelled, "Why have you stopped?"

Jenna waited till she was standing in front of Imposter Vash before she answered. "There is nothing up ahead for miles and I was hungry. I thought this would be a good place to stop for a rest and get something to eat." Jenna didn't wait for an answer; she started walking to where Vash had gotten out of the car with Fantus.

"Yo Wolf! How was the trip so far?" she called as she approached Vash.

Vash waved back, "Oh probably the same as yours." he grinned. When she reached him he looked over her shoulder at Imposter Vash. "Oh, you've done it now!" he said with a laugh.

Jenna turned and saw the Imposter staring at her with his fists clenched.

"What'd you do?" Vash asked.

"I told him we were stopping cause I was hungry and I thought this a good place to rest." She turned around and waved at Imposter Vash. Turning back she clasped her hands behind her back in a childlike manner and looked up at Vash, "Besides, we were getting pretty bored and lonely out there all by ourselves." she grinned up at him.

Vash rolled his eyes, "Why me?" he whined.

"Because you're cute. Now come on, lets go get something to eat."

Imposter Vash watched as the man named Wolf walked away with the woman and her horse. He ground his teeth in frustration and anger. How dare she! he thought. If she continues to get away with stuff like that, I am going to loose face in front of my men, and if that happens, we won't be able to pull this off! He took a deep breath and steadied himself. I am just going to have to have a talk with her tonight when we make camp. With that, he turned on his heel and began calling out orders and organizing for the rest stop.

Twenty minutes later found most of the group sitting around the area eating lunch. Imposter Vash had organized the vehicles so that most were in a large circle around the clearing, the sand steamer in the middle for protection.

Jenna sat on a rock next to the jeep that Vash and his new partner Peter Green rode in. Vash was sitting in the drivers seat, one leg propped against the dashboard, the other on the ground. Green was sitting a few feet away with his wife and two children.

"He's a nice man." Jenna commented as she took a bite of her sandwich.

"Yeah he's alright." Vash replied.

Jenna turned to look up at him. His sunglasses were hiding his face, but she could tell from his voice something was wrong. "You ok?" she asked him.

Vash grunted in response and continued to eat.

Jenna cocked an eyebrow but let it drop. She looked around the clearing at the scorched rocks and decided that this was as good a time as any to ask him what he thought about them.

"Hey Vash," she began.

"Yeah?" Vash looked at her over the rim of his sunglasses.

"I was just wondering. Do you know what caused all these rocks to fall over and look all scorched?"

Vash didn't answer, so she continued. "On my world I would assume that there had been a wizards duel, or perhaps a young dragon had gotten the urge to test their fire. But I know that there aren't wizards here, and seeing as I'm the only dragon on this planet that I know of," She twisted in her seat so she could look him in the eyes, "What caused all the destruction."

She watched his eyes, which seemed to be trapped in a memory. They were sad, but the sadness wasn't as deep as it was when he talked about his past. Then she saw the corners of his mouth twitch.

"Care to share with the rest of us?" she asked him gently.

Vash snapped back into reality and blinked. "Oh what?" he asked seeming to have forgotten she was there.

Jenna smiled a half smile, "The rocks. You were about to tell me about what you think caused the rocks to look like this." Jenna already had an idea.

"Bounty hunters, about six months ago." Vash looked around at the whole canyon, "I'd forgotten about this place." He stopped and grinned at her, "Gave those boys a run for their money! I taught them a valuable lesson that day."

"What? To stay away from Vash the Stampede?" she asked sarcastically.

"No. I helped them to understand that the world should be made of Love and Peace!" He put one fist over his heart and with the other hand he crossed the index and middle finger in her face.

Jenna looked at him in open-mouthed skepticism. Shaking her head she lowered his hand. "Your joking right?" she said, her look going from skepticism to disbelief.

"No. This world is made of Love and Peace!" Vash said it with so much enthusiasm he fell right out of the jeep and onto his head.

"Wow, if that's Love and Peace, I don't think I want any." Jenna said grinning at him.

"Owww." was all Vash could manage.

Jenna laughed as she helped him to sit back up. "Nice going." she congratulated him.

"Shut up." Vash mumbled as he rubbed the back of his head.

Both of them looked up as a shadow fell over them. "You alright Wolf?" Green asked Vash.

"Yeah. I just slipped." Vash answered.

Jenna nearly spit out her water.

Vash shot her a dirty look, "That's not very nice."

"I know. But you have to admit, that was really funny." Jenna said trying to smile while she choked.

Green was looking from one to the other, smiling as he did so. Vash had told him earlier that she was just his friend and partner. Seeing them interact showed Green that there was something there, even if they didn't see it.

"All right people! Time to move on!"

Green turned around while Jenna and Vash leaned around him to get a better look. One of the men that Fantus described from Imposter Vash's car was standing on a rock next to the sand steamer. "Come on! Lets go! Vash the Stampede wants to be on the road in ten minutes. And you don't want to make him angry." To emphasize his point he shot his machine gun into the air. It worked, because people started moving very quickly.

" 'You don't want to make him angry' well that's rude!" Jenna said taking on a haughty expression and folding her arms. "How stupid. Can't even threaten innocent women and children himself. He has to send a lackey to do it. Pitiful. Just pitiful. I think I've lost all respect for Mr. Stampede…Whoa-OW!" Jenna looked over the rock she was just sitting on at Vash, who had on one of his idiotic smiles.

"Sorry about that Jen. I stretched and hit you on accident." Vash said innocently.

Green knew a fight when he saw one, and seeing the look on Jenna's face confirmed it. He decided that this was the time to excuse himself and help his wife. He cleared his throat, "Um right. I am going to go make sure Eleanor and the children make it safely onto the steamer. I'll be back as soon as They're safe." and he rushed off to where his wife was waiting impatiently for him.

"Why did you push me?" Jenna demanded as Vash stood up and then helped her up.

Vash still had on the same idiotic grin and was about to answer, but was interrupted by Imposter Vash.

"Saradin. I want you riding at the head next to me. I'll let you know when I want you to scout out a place to stop for the night." Imposter Vash said. Then he looked at the real Vash. Jenna watched as the two men tried to stare each other down. Imposter Vash looked away first, turned and walked away. Jenna couldn't help a triumphant YES! go through her head. It quickly melted when she saw that Vash was still staring after the other man.

"Vash." She called. "VASH!"

"Huh?"

Men. She thought as she rolled her eyes. She decided to change the subject. "You never answered my question. Why did you push me?"

As soon as his black mood came, it went. His grin was back on his face, "I didn't push you."

"Yes you did!" she pushed him sideways as they walked over to where Cyric and Fantus were waiting outside the circle of cars.

"I did not. I told you I was stretching." he gently shoved her back.

"LIAR!" she yelled playfully.

Vash took on the airs of being injured and looking at her over the rim of his sunglasses said. "Me? Jenna I'm hurt!"

Jenna stuck her tongue out at him. Vash just laughed at her.

"I did it because you were talking to much." Vash finally answered her seriously.

"Talking to much? I just said that I had lost faith…oh, I see what this is." Jenna grabbed his arm so he would stop walking. "You took that last comment personally didn't you?"

Vash got all flustered, "What! I…er…that…NO!" he finally blurted out.

"Alright, so you didn't" Jenna said not believing him, "But just incase you did, I have full faith and confidence in you." she poked him in the nose, "And you have my trust." Then she looked over at where Imposter Vash and his cronies were, "He doesn't deserve to steal your name, or the honor of licking the dirt from your boots!" she said acidly. She turned back and looked into Vash's wide eyes and put her smile back on, "Shall we go?" she asked as she began to walk over to where Cyric now stood by himself.

Vash stood frozen in his spot. Then he shuddered. "SCAAARY!" he said to himself.

"You're just noticing that now boy?" Fantus landed on Vash's shoulder.

Vash shuddered once more then walked over to where Jenna was explaining their new orders to Cyric.

We have to WHAT? Cyric yelled in all their heads.

"What? What do we have to do now?" Fantus asked as they approached.

Jenna says that she and I have to ride next to that…that…

"Imposter?" finished Vash as he folded his arms. "Yeah I think Jenna was a little pissed about that too." Vash said as he realized the cause of her earlier comment.

Vash smirked and watched Jenna blush slightly as she inspected Cyric's tack. She cleared her throat, "Its all about power. I usurped his, now he is trying to keep me under control. That's all."

Vash was shocked at how calmly and accepting she sounded, apparently Fantus had the same thoughts he did.

"And you're just going to let that happen? Miss 'No man can make me do anything?'" Fantus squawked.

People turned to look over at their little group. Vash clamped his hand over the drake's snout, "Shh! I thought we were going to pretend you were mute!" he hissed.

Fantus said something, that came out "I uz! I st ied may."

"What?" everyone said in unison.

Fantus removed Vash's hand, "Well if you would have let me go you would have understood!" he said annoyed. "I said, I was, I just got carried away." Fantus turned back to Jenna with wide eyes, "Its just so shocking that the Dragon Princess is following orders from the scum of the earth!" he said mockingly.

"Oh shut up. Not like I have a choice." Jenna said sullenly.

"Hey you two!"

Vash and Jenna spun around and saw the same man from earlier standing behind them.

"Vash is getting impatient, lets get a move on." The man got a wicked look on his face and added, "Or else!" Then he walked away.

Fantus puffed himself and began to mimic the man, while everyone else rolled their eyes.

Jenna mounted up, and then offered Vash her hand, "Want me to take you over to your jeep? It will be much faster and then the 'or else' won't happen." she said sarcastically.

Vash paled, "Um, no that's ok."

"You sure?"

"Positive. Now get going before we get into more trouble than we already are." Vash said seriously.

Jenna looked at him curiously, but held her tongue. "Alright, but you better hurry."

"Don't worry about me. Go!"

"See you tonight!" Jenna smiled and waved. Then kicked Cyric into motion, leaving Vash and Fantus behind.

"Well let's go!" Vash said and began to jog over to where Green waited for them. Once they were settled, the gun went off again, and the caravan began to move once more.

Jenna sat hunched over in the saddle as she listened to Imposter Vash and his men talk. Every once and a while one of them would look at her and make a comment to the guy next to him and they would laugh. Jenna would then roll her eyes and look away.

This is ridiculous. She thought to herself. Then she opened her mind to Cyric so he could listen in, You know, why didn't he just put shackles on my wrists and tie me to the saddle?

Cyric chuckled, There wouldn't be much difference would there?

Jenna cocked her head to one side; You don't think he would let me ride back with Vash do you? I mean we would be doing the same thing right? Just not right next to him.

Cyric shook his head, Well, I guess it wouldn't hurt to try. It would just depend on how much power he feels like giving you back.

Jenna snorted, Right. That man couldn't hold a stick to the amount of power I really have.

Jenna, you may be able to annihilate him with a thought, but you must remember that he can hurt these people before you do.

Jenna sighed heavily, I know Cyric, I know. Its just he's so infuriating and horribly arrogant that I just want to blast a fireball in his face.

Cyric chuckled, We all do. But go ask and see what he says.

Jenna turned Cyric and rode closer to the car. When Imposter Vash noticed her he looked at her, and then looked back at the road. The rest of the car went silent as they waited to see what would happen.

"Yes?" Imposter Vash finally asked her.

"Mr. Stampede, since I am doing no good at the front here, I was wondering if I could at least ride with my friends until you need me." Jenna asked as politely as she could. Since you've already done a nice job at humiliating me. She growled in her head.

"And why should I?" he asked her in the same uncaring tone.

"I already told you, I'm of no use until you need me. I'm also bored and would like to talk with my partner."

Imposter Vash didn't answer for a long time. Jenna thought for sure that he was going to say no, and was about to move Cyric around when he finally nodded and said "Alright."

With great control Jenna said, "Thank you Mr. Stampede." as courteously as she could manage. She turned Cyric and headed back to where Vash and Green were following.

Howard looked at Imposter Vash with shock written all over his face, "Boss! Why'd you do that? I thought the plan was to keep her as close as possible."

Imposter Vash smiled, "It was. I changed my mind. If we are to win her over to our side, we need to get her to trust us. I think I made my point with her. Look at how politly she asked instread of telling me. I can always call her back. Besides watching them interact my come to an advantage to us in the long run." And show me how best to make her see that her future lies with me.

The other men in the car looked at one another, a little bit of confusion on their faces.

This wasn't the what he was say'n earlier but, oh well Howard shrugged, and the subject was dropped.

Vash was watching what he could of Jenna up front through the dust, and he wasn't the only one. Fantus stood with his front paws on the dashboard, glowering in the same direction Vash was looking. Even Green would glance in that direction every once and a while. All three were so tense that when Fantus finally roared in frustration everyone jumped.

This is so dumb! Look at us! Worrying as though we are a bunch of old women! Fantus snorted in disgust.

It wasn't until Vash heard Green ask him if everything was all right that he realized that Fantus was speaking directly to him in his mind.

"Uh yeah. Jenna's pet is just angry because he got left behind again, that's all. Isn't it little friend?" Vash said as he rubbed the top of Fantus' head. Fantus growled menacingly and Vash pulled his hand back with one of his stupid laughs.

Green still looked warily at Fantus, but nodded and went back to looking at the road ahead.

Good thing Green has a brain and doesn't ask stupid questions. Vash thought he said to himself.

Yeah, good thing. Fantus commented in his head. I'm kinda sorry that I decided not to talk out loud.

Would you stop listening to my thoughts? Vash asked him sarcastically.

Stop broadcasting. I think you could stand another lesson from Jenna.

Vash grunted in reply, but otherwise said nothing. He looked back to where Jenna was and found her missing. Panic started to rise in his chest as he looked around for her.

"Looking for something."

Vash spun in his seat and looked slightly behind him. Sitting on Cyric with an amused expression on her face was Jenna. She urged Cyric so they were riding parallel to the car.

"Where'd you come from?" Vash asked her in surprise.

"Oh, around." she answered evasively. Vash just rolled his eyes and looked forward again, trying hard to hide his smile of relief.

"I see that!" Jenna said, still amused.

Vash cleared his throat and put on one of his stone faced expressions, "See what?" he said as he pushed his sunglasses farther up on his face.

Jenna rolled her eyes, "You know, you can be a real pill sometimes!"

Vash let the corners of his mouth twitch, "Look who's calling the kettle black."

"Oh shut up!" Jenna said as she took a playful swipe at his head.

"Welcome back Jenna." Green said from his position behind the wheel, "Its always a pleasure to have a lovely lady around." he said with a big grin and a wink.

"Why thank you Mr. Green." Jenna said, and then she stuck her nose is the air, "Its nice to know that some men still know how to welcome a lady. Unlike some people I know." She looked directly at Vash while saying the last comment.

"Yeah yeah." he said as he rolled his eyes and grumbled under his breath.

Fantus was snickering as he watched them talk. He exchanged a quick look with Cyric and they both nodded. Jenna was still giving Vash a dirty look and he was still starting out the windshield, so neither saw the exchange take place.

"Oh for crying out loud! I get Mr. Stampede to let me go and now your going to sit and sulk? I was having a better time at the front with them!" Jenna said as she jumped from Cyric's saddle into the back seat of the jeep. She watched as Vash's shoulders tightened up and he looked back at her with disbelieving eyes, his mask of stone gone.

"You were?" he asked in a surprised voice. Green glanced back at Jenna and laughed under his breath.

Jenna looked at him for a moment, but instead of being angry, her face softened, and she shook her head, "No Pin Head, I wasn't." She looked back to the lead car and shuddered, "I'd rather have you not talking to me then all of them talking at once." Jenna leaned back and put her hands behind her head. "This is definitely much better. And now you three can stop worrying about me." she added with a wink, then laughed as Fantus sunk down and the two men looked sheepish. "You guys didn't think I couldn't feel you staring at me did you?" Jenna laughed as she leaned forward. "Thanks guys. It really means a lot to me." she said with a fake sniffle in mock sadness.

Vash turned around and looked at Jenna over the rim of his glasses, "Oh I'm so touched by your gratitude." he said sarcastically. When she started laughing he took a swipe at her head, which sent him off balance because of his awkward position. Jenna fell over laughing as she dodged, but Vash fell onto Green and caused him to loose slight control of the car.

"That's enough you two!" Green yelled at them in a very commanding voice.

Jenna and Vash both sat up and looked at their feet, "Yes sir." they both said at the same time. For a time there was silence in the car.

Jenna figured it was safe to talk again and leaned forward, "So, what have you two been up to while I've been gone? Anything exciting?"

Green and Vash exchanged a glance, "Um, you pretty much hit it on the nail." Vash said sheepishly with one of his grins.

"Huh?" Jenna asked perplexed.

Everyone has been sick with worry since you left. Blondie has been doing nothing but stare at your ass the entire time you've been gone. Fantus answered for everyone.

"I did not!" Vash yelled indignantly as he blushed as red as his coat.

Green looked startled, "You didn't do what?" he asked confused.

"I uh, well that is…" Vash blubbered as he tried to find the words to explain his outburst.

"I said," Fantus spoke out loud, "That all anyone has been doing is worrying about Jenna."

Green went white, while Jenna was looking at Vash with her head cocked to one side and an eyebrow raised.

"My butt huh?" Jenna asked Vash at the same time Green said, "He can talk!"

Jenna and Vash ignored Green and let Fantus get himself out of trouble.

"Um…" Vash said as he turned around to stare out the windshield.

"Um what?" Jenna said in innocent curiosity. She watched as Vash shrunk down into the collar of his coat. She smiled and poked him in the shoulder, which made him slide down farther, "C'mon Vash. Does it look that good?" she asked him playfully.

I'm not answering that question. I'm already in enough trouble thanks to the sparkler. Vash thought to himself.

No, you're not in trouble. I'm flattered, really I am. It's not everyday that some one worth my time stares at my butt.

Vash turned around quickly in his seat and looked at her with wide eyes over the edge of his coat.

Jenna winked at him, then made a sour face, Usually it's the creeps. Then she smiled at the utterly confused expression on his face. You were broadcasting again. I couldn't help myself.

Vash turned around and "Hurrumphed" in his seat and listened to Jenna's irritatingly sweet laughter behind him. He decided to ignore her and listened instead to Fantus and Green.

"So you've actually been able to understand everything that's been said this whole time?" Green was asking.

"Yup." Fantus answered, "I've been playing dumb so I can keep an eye on Vash the Stampede."

Green nodded as he looked at the road. Vash watched him, as he seemed to be struggling with something. "What are you exactly?" Green finally asked.

Fantus looked at Jenna and when she nodded, he answered the question, "I'm a genetically altered lizard." He said with a grin. Jenna rolled her eyes, Vash groaned and Cyric snorted, but that didn't seem to matter to Green.

Fantus' explanation seemed to be enough for him. Green shrugged, "Makes sense." Was all he said, and then he went back to driving.

The four companions all exchanged looks then shrugged. I like him. Jenna said to all of them, I think we can trust him.

I don't know. Cyric answered.

Fantus snorted, You never seem to 'know' any more Cyric. When are you going to?

Cyric shot fantus a dark look, but held his peace.

Vash looked at Jenna, but she just shrugged and looked over the side of the car, seeming to dismiss the whole conversation. Ooook. Vash thought to himself. I guess that means to just leave it alone then. Oh well. And he went back to watching the jeep ahead of him.

They remained in the silence for the rest of the trip that day, either falling asleep or just admiring the scenery. It wasn't until the first sun was beging to set that their quiet time was interrupted.

"MISS SARADIN!" came the call from a bullhorn at the front of the line of cars, startling everyone in Vash's car.

"MISS SARADIN. VASH THE STAMPEDE WANTS YOU FRONT AND CENTER! NOW!"

Jenna swore in a language that Vash had never heard before. Vash and Green exchanged looks as Jenna's tyrade contined.

"Can't that man just leave me alone! He's made his point" She complained as she began to climb up onto the door of the still moving jeep.

"Well he did leave you alone for a few hours." Vash pointed out. "Longer than I thought he would."

Jenna muttered her agreement and then whistled a shrill whistle. Looking back over her shoulder at the men in the jeep she said, "Wish me luck. I'll see you gentlement in a bit. Fantus-"

"I know! Stay here." Fantus grumbled as he folded his arms in Vash's lap and pouted."

Jenna smiled and looked back to where Cyric was galloping towards their jeep from farther back in the line of cars. She braced herself, reached out, and before Vash could stop her, grabbed Cyrics mane and hauled herself into the saddle.

Vash sat opened mouth as he watched her turn and wave and ride off.

"Reckless." Green said as he shook his head.

Vash sighed, then laughed as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Yeah she is, but she seems to be able to handle herself. To himself he thought I hope.

Jenna rode up to the front of the line and came parallel to the head jeep carrying Imposter Vash and his cronnies.

"Ah there you are scout. Its about time you showed up. Vash was getting impatient." Said the man next to Imposter Vash.

Jenna bit her lip to keep herself from saying anything she might regret later. Instead she sat quietly and waited for her orders.

When she didn't speak the man next to the Imposter continued, "We need you to scout out a place to set up camp for the night. There are a lot of people so we need a large place and fairly soon. Vash wants camp set up before the second sun goes down."

Jenna nodded, "Anything else?" she said in a flat voice.

"No that will be all for now." Imposter Vash said in a dismissive manner as he kept driving, not even bothering to look at her.

Without another word Jenna kicked cyrics flanks and took off in front of the caravan. Vash! Tell everyone I'm scouting for a place to camp. I'll check in every fifteen minutes or so. If you don't hear from me, find me.

Will do. Answered Vash. He then looked at Fantus and repeated what she said. Fantus nodded and then continued to look straight ahead.

They rode in silence as they waited for Jenna's check ins, which came in fifteen minutes like promised. A short sentence telling them where she was, then she continued with her scouting.

Thirty minutes later Vash looked up at the setting suns to see a familiar form silhouetted by the second sun as it touched the horizon.

"Found her." Vash said outloud as he watched the first car reach where Cyric was standing. Fantus woke up long enough from his nap to see what Vash was talking about, then went back to sleep.

"Looks like we're going to be stopping sooner than I thought." Green said watching the breaklights ahead of him as he began to slow down. "Good. The sooner we get to sleep. The sooner tomorrow will be here and we can get this adventure overwith."

Vash looked at Green with surprise, then mild amusement, "I take it your not enjoying yourself then?"

Green grunted, "Not one bit. This was just a way to make some quick cash and get my family moved to a new place. Hopefully quieter than the last." He sighed, "If I had known Vash the Stampede was going to be leading this journey, I wouldn't have signed up at all."

"Ha ha, yeah me too." Vash agreed as he sunk lower in his seat at looked in the opposite direction.

Green looked over at the unknown outlaw with concern, "You alright Wolf? Your looking kinda pale."

Fantus looked up at Vash as he replied, "Oh I'm fine. Been in the car a bit to long. Get motion sickness sometimes." Vash lied and laughed his obnoxious laugh to hide his unease. Fantus rolled his eyes and put his head back down. By now Vash realized the drake was only faking his nap.

Green smiled a knowing smile, "My daughter gets motion sickness. Don't worry son, we'll be out of here soon and then you can put some food in ya. That will make you feel better."

"Haha, I hope so." Answered Vash, surprised that his lie actually worked as he sunk farther into his seat.

Fantus flew up to his shoulder and wispered "Lucky you."

Vash mumbled something that sounded like "shut up." And then ignored the Drake when he started laughing.

Twenty minutes later found Vash, with Fantus on his shoulder, and Green standing by the jeep that they had just parked, watching the sand steamer as it slowed, making its way into the center of the extra automoiles. Once in positon, the driver of the steamer cut the engines and the gangplank was lowered for the passengers.

"Well boys, its been fun, but I've got some people to go meet. Give that Lady of yours a kiss for me would ya." Green said with a wink. Walking away he waved over his head and without turning he said, "Goodnight."

Vash stood rooted on the spot while Fantus sat of his shoulder laughing. Gaining some of his composure Vash knocked the drake from his perch. "Shut up sparkplug." And started walking away.

Still laughing from the ground, fantus sat up and pointed a clawed finger "Oho! Sounds like someone hit a soft spot!"

Vash stood up straight and turned around to face the lizard sitting on the ground grinning maliciously. Walking over to where the drake sat he bent down so he was eye to eye with Fantus, "That, my friend, is none of your business."

"HA!" answered Fantus, "You can't fool me. Your as red as your coat and I've caught you staring at her serveral times just today!" Giving Vash a sly look, "You like her don't you?"

"I uh, I…Wait why are you spying on me!" Vash asked trying to dodge the question.

"Oh don't change the subject Mr! You like her! And I don't spy, that's rude." Fantus folded his arms and managed to look injured.

Vash smaked his forehead and stood up, "This is rediculous. I'm arguing with an over grown lizard."

"Why are you arguing with an over grown lizard.?"

Vash jumped and turned around to see Jenna standing behind him with a curious expression on her face.

"Um, no reason. Just a simple dissagreement. That's all. Heheh." He responded lamely. Next to his ankle Fantus snickered. Vash knocked him over and grinned his stupid grin at Jenna.

"Ok." Jenna answered disbelievingly. "Then I'll leave you two to finish. When your done, come find us over there." She pointed toward some rocks outside of the circle of cars not far from where the jeep was parked.

"Sure. We'll be there." Fantus snickered again and Vash kicked him a second time.

Jenna nodded, still looking suspiciously at them and walked away.

Vash watched her as she walked, leading Cyric over to their intended camp site. Do I like her? He asked himself, then he shook his head, No, I can't. He won't let me. But still maybe just once…

Fantus climbed back onto Vash's shoulder and watched the outlaw's face as he watched Jenna. When Fantus saw the mischeivious glint in Vash's eye and his mouth twitch into a smile, and knew what he was thinking.

"Word of warning to you before you try something stupid." Fantus began.

"Hmm?" Vash asked still in his little fantacy world.

"She's very prideful and not one to try anything on with out her wanting it. Remember what happened to the guy in the last town?" Fantus pushed off Vash's shoulder and launched himself into the air and headed for the rocks where Jenna had stopped.

"What! Fantus I wasn't, I mean, wait a minute." Vash called to the Drake.

Fantus stopped mid air and turned on the spot, getting quite a few stares from people standing around them.

She likes you Vash, but be careful. She's not going to let you know that. Hell, she'd kill me for telling you. With a grin Fantus spun back around, Good luck my friend!

Jenna meanwhile had stopped setting up the portable stove and was watching Vash and Fantus with curiousity.

"Just what are you two up to?" she asked no one in particular.

"More mischief. Probably invloving the imposter." Cyric said with a shake of his mane.

Jenna smiled, "Probably, knowing those two." Still… she thought, not quite convinced. Shrugging, she got the stove working and began fixing dinner.

"Here they come." Cyric announced.

Looking up from the pot she was stirring, Jenna saw Vash and Fantus walking towards them, Fantus with a smug look on his face, Vash looking thoughtful.

"Done with your argument?" She teased.

"What, oh yeah. We're done." Vash said grinning back and looking at her like he knew something he shouldn't.

"What?" Jenna asked uneasily.

"Oh nothing. Mmmm! Something smells really good!" Vash pushed past her and made a bee-line for the steaming pot.

"Men!" Jenna said as she threw her arms up in defeat. "Always thinking with their stomachs, among other things." She mumbled under her breath as she walked over to where their rations she'd been given sat and pulled out some extra spices.

"Huh? Did you say something Jen?" Vash asked as he sat staring into the pot of boiling stew.

"No, nothing at all. Now move before you start drooling into our food!" Jenna answered and pushed Vash out of the way, thowing the new ingrediants into the pot.

"I am not drooling." Vash answered as he vigerously wiped his chin. "Is it almost ready?" he asked anxiously.

Jenna rolled her eyes and kept stiring. "Not if you keep pestering me. Va-I mean Wolf do me a favor and slice the bread please." Jenna barely caught herself in time to not say Vash's name out loud.

"Why do I want to cut the bread?" Vash asked as though the slip didn't happen.

"Because it will make the time till we eat go faster. Its in the bag there next to my staff." Jenna pointed as Vash began to look around for the bread. "Here, use this," Jenna stood up and drew one of her long knives to pass to Vash, but stopped as Vash pulled out his own from somewhere within his coat. "Where'd that come from?"

Vash shrugged as he began to slice the bread loaf. "Just something I picked up along the way." He answered.

Jenna nodded and sheethed her own blade. Then she went back to stirring the stew. Fifteen minutes later Jenna leaned over the pot and tasted the contents. With a satisfied nod she turned to her companions, "Dinners ready boys. Eat up!"

"Sure smells good!" Vash said enthusiasticly as Jenna began to laddle the steaming liquid into their bowls. Fantus and Vash quickly sat down and began shoveling food into their mouths.

Jenna laughed as she watched them eat. "That good?"

"Mmmph goof." Vash and Fantus answered together, both mouths full.

Jenna laughed and walked over to Cyric and began to remove his tack as he ate from his grain bag.

Vash swallowed, "Aren't you going to eat anything Jenna?"

Looking over her shoulder Jenna answered, "Yeah, once I finished cleaning Cyric up. Its been a long day, and I'm afraid if I stop, I won't get back up." She smiled and went back to removing Cyric's saddle. As she stepped back her knees gave out and pain shot through her chest, the weight of what she was holding forced her to fall backwards. Jenna let out a scream as she dropped the saddle and began to turn to break her fall.

Vash watched in slow motion as Jenna began to fall. Before anyone else even seemed to be aware of what was happeneing, he was on his feet and catching her. "You alright?" Vash asked her.

Jenna clutched at Vash's coat and used his arms to push herself into a position where she could look him in the face. "Yeah I think so. I forget sometimes that just because the wound lookes healed, it may not entirely be fixed." She let out a tired laugh, "I guess I've pushed myself little hard today." She said.

Vash helped her stand up, "Seems like I've been making a habit of catching you these last few days, not that I mind or anything." He added with his stupid grin.

"Thank you Vash I appreciate it." Jenna then looked around and realized he was still holding her, "Um Vash, I think I can stand now."

"You sure?" he asked as he tentativly let go, then watched as she began to wobble undsteadily, "Nope," Vash said, "No you can't." Before Jenna could protest, Vash scooped her up in his arms and began to carry her over to the fire.

"What are you doing Vash! Put me down! I can walk just fine!" Jenna began yelling as she struggled to get free, but his grip was so tight that struggling wasn't getting her anywhere.

"No I won't put you down and we're under cover remember?" Vash told her calmly through her thrashing. Jenna stopped moving and allowed him to set her down next to the fire and serve her some food. "Now eat." Vash said pushing the bowl of stew into her hands. "I'll take care of Cyric." If he'll let me.

Jenna looked at him with a dubious expression on her face, but did as she was told, watching Vash cautiously approach and finish removing Cyrics tack.

"He's a good one, that boy." Fantus said quietly from Jenna's shoulder.

"Just what are you up to Fantus?" Jenna said as she watched Vash carefully removing the rest of their gear.

"What me? Why would I be up to something?" asked the drake innocently.

Jenna turned and looked the drake square in the eye, "Because I know you and when it comes to my life, your always up to something."

"Says you!" Fantus said with a hint of guilt in his voice. He jumped off her shoulder and curled into a ball next to the fire, muttering to himself the whole while.

Jenna ignored him and looked into the fire. As she sat by herself, she tried not to think about Vash, about Mirva, and especially about Kale. How long she sat like that she wasn't sure. It wasn't until she heard footsteps beside her that she pulled herself out of her meloncholy.

"See, Cyric's not so bad once- oh. Its you." Jenna had been expecting Vash but had looked up to find The Imposter standing over her. "What do you want?" she asked with disdain as she looked back into the fire.

"I would like to have a word with you if that's alright." Imposter Vash answered.

Jenna glanced up, then back to the fire. "I suppose so."

"Alone please Miss Saradin."

Jenna looked up to see Fantus awake next to the fire, and Vash and Cyric staring at her, all three listning intensly. Vash stood with his hand casually on his holster, but Jenna knew he was ready to pounce if the oportunity presented itself.

Looking back at The Imposter Jenna said, "alright," standing up she added, "Where would you like to have this talk?"

"Its such a pretty evening I thought a walk would be nice." Imposter Vash said in a suave voice. "Would you care to join me?"

"No, I really wouldn't," Jenna answered and watched his eyes harden, "But since I have no choice I'd be glad to."

"Thank you." Imposter Vash said as he extended his arm, but Jenna pushed right past him.

"I'll be back. Save a donut for me." She called over her shoulder as she left the fire light. Imposter Vash didn't even acknowledge that there was anyone else, he turned and followed her.

An angry monster growled inside of Vash's chest and when Cyric and Fantus both turned to look at him in surprise, he realized it was actually him. Clearing his throat he said, "Ah sorry guys. Got a little peace of food stuck in my throat. Heheh."

Fantus raised one of his scaley eyebrows at Vash. Cyric came around to stand beside Vash and said, "Steady boy. She'll be alright, trust her"

Vash's eyes narrowed and he put his hand on the stallions neck, "I know that and I do trust her, but I don't trust him. I'd just like to know what he's up to. My gut tells me that somethings about to go down." He looked over at the sand steamer and the many passangers roaming its balconies, "Just what is inside that thing that is so damn important?" Vash asked himself.

Fantus flew up to sit on Cyrics back, "Does stuff like this happen all the time here?" he asked Vash enthusiasticly.

"Yeah it does," Vash answered a bit distractedly, then he caught the tone in the drakes voice, "Hey wait a minute, that sounded like you almost want something to happen!"

"I uh, don't know what your talking about." Fantus said and looked anywhere but at Vash.

Vash slapped his forehead Why me? He thought and out loud said, "We don't want anything to happen. We needed a nice, easy trip to make some spending cash, and I thought you had had enough excitement for a while with your last adventure."

Fantus grinned, "We needed to do that last one, the world depended on it. This is for fun!"

Vash looked up at the sky and repeated "Why me?" Sobering, he looked in the direction that Jenna had gone with the Imposter.

"She'll be ok." Fantus said around a mouthful of donuts, "The area's pretty flat so we can keep an eye on her. So stop worrying." Fantus stuffed another donut in his mouth.

"Hey! Don't eat all of those!" Vash shouted turning around and taking the box from the drakes hands and beginning to stuff his own face.

"Gimme those back!" Fantus yelled back and tried to take the box from Vash.

Cyric shook his mane as Fantus and Vash began their nightly donut fight. Ignoring the shouts and the cursing, Cyric continued to watch Jenna in the distance. You don't trust him Vash? Well that's one thing we can both agree on. Your still hiding something from us, but you have proven your good intentions. Him on the other hand… Cyric let the thought linger unfinished as he flared his nostrals and continued to watch the two figures in the distance.

Jenna let Imposter Vash take the lead as they began walking. When he didn't say anything to her for a good ten minutes, she became impatient. "Ok cut the crap. What do you want Vash?" Giving Vash's name to this man was like swallowing a bitter pill, she almost choked on it.

The Imposter stopped and turned to her with a cold smile on his face, "You are very shrewed aren't you Miss Saradin?" He didn't wait for an answer, but continued on. "I have come with a propositon for you." Imposter Vash let the smile fade from his face. "I am looking for a partner, Miss Saradin, and so far you are the only person on this excursion showing any promise."

Jenna folded her arms across her chest and raised an eyebrow, "Oh?" she said. "And why is that? Aren't all your flunkies enough for you?"

He laughed a humorless laugh, "See but that's just it. All these guys are are flunkies, as you so perfectly put it." Imposter Vash clasped his hands behind his back and began to walk around Jenna in a thoughtful manner, "What they lack are the smarts. They are good at following orders and making sure other people carry them out, but I need someone who can think on their feet. You have proven that you are not afraid of authority or of questioning it and that you can think and act quickly. I like that about you Miss Saradin. My men, or flunkies, are just hired brusers who between them couldn't count to twenty." He stopped walking in front of her, looking directly into Jenna's suspicous eyes, "I need some one who isn't afraid to get their hands dirty, who, every once in a while, can help me make decisions," Imposter Vash reached out and caressed Jenna's shoulder, "among other things."

Jenna looked at his hand, reached up, and moved it back to his side. "I thank you for thinking of me, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to decline." She turned and began to walk back to her camp.

"Why? I'm offering you money, power, anything you want. And I'm only offering it to you. Why would you want to pass that oportunity up?" He asked her with real confusion on his face.

Jenna stopped walking and turned, "Because I don't find your offer that appealing. Money, power, or anything else you have to offer me, doesn't matter to me." Shrugging she continued walking.

Imposter Vash laughed, "See that's why I want you" running he caught up with her and put himself between Jenna and her camp. "Your not afraid of me. You think for yourself and your not greedy! I can trust you."

Jenna folded her arms, "My answer, Mr. Vash, is still no. I'm here on a job to guard the caravan and make sure it arrives to its destination safely. That's it." Walking around him she continued, "I'm not here to join a gang and create chaos."

The imposter narrowed his eyes. Suspisions arose in his head. Just how much did she know or suspect about why he was there. As she passed him he grabbed her arm and spun her to face him. "Just what is that supposed to mean?"

There was no fear in her eyes. She looked at him calmly as he pulled her closer and repeated his question.

"You are supposed to be Vash the Stampede. Trouble follows you everywhere. I am assuming that you're here to cause trouble some how." Jenna said. Imposter squeezed her arm as she watched the panic rise in his eyes. Wincing she said, "Let go of my arm, your hurting me."

"It will only be considered trouble if your on the wrong side of it." Imposter Vash said through clenched teeth, "I'll ask you again miss Saradin, will you join me and help me. I'll give you anything you could ever want."

Jenna twisted her arm free, "All I want is to be left in peace. To travel with my friends and to make it to the next town with out any trouble. Can you give me that?" She said as she rubbed her arm, turned, and quickly began to walk away

His face grew angry. She dare defy him?

"You call those animals and that goody-two-shoes your friends?" Imposter Vash called after her.

Jenna stopped balled her hands into fists and counted to ten before turning around and answering. She had had enough of being polite to this man. "Yes I do. Those animals care about what happens to me and are loyal to me, and that man saved my life. He is the most caring and selfless man I know!" Jenna looked Imposter Vash up and down with open disgust, "You fall very short compared to him."

Imposter Vash laughed at her and closed the distance between them, "I fall short? I am Vash the Stampede, everyone fears me," his eyes narrowed and his features turned cold, "I get what I want."

Jenna glared at Imposter Vash, "No, you are not the real Vash the Stampede. I know him, and you are no where near who he is. You are nothing but a fake!" She turned her back on him and walked away just as quickly as before.

The Imposter felt that is was time to switch tactics with this one, if he couldn't get her on his side by asking, then he would use threats. He ran and grabbed her arm again, spinning her around to face him. "You don't want to make me angry Miss Saradin. Leave that group of fools behind and come join me and you can have anything you want, or consiquences you will not like will follow. I guarantee it."

"The only fool I see is the one standing before me. Now, LET ME GO!" Jenna shouted loud enough for people all around to hear. Everyone stopped what they were doing to watch, some even moving closer for a better veiw.

"Vash," Cyric said in alarm, "I think something is wrong."

Vash stopped cramming donuts and looked up at Cyric. Turning slowling he looked over his shoulder to see Jenna arguing with the Imposter Vash, her body language clearly stating that she was not happy. Swallowing, Vash stood up, putting the donuts aside and began walking towards the shouting match. When he saw Imposter Vash grab Jenna none to gently, Vash began to run.

Shit! This is not good. Then he heard her yell. This is really not good. He began to run faster. Vash reached the scene in time to see Jenna hit the imposter square in the jaw.

Imposter Vash realed backwards as he let go of Jenna's arm. They both stood looking at each other, The Imposter wiping blood from his lip.

"You hit me." He said in a stunned voice.

"I told you to let go." Jenna said in a quiet voice. "Twice. Its your own fault."

An ugly snear apeared on the imposters face and he spat blood at Jenna's feet. "You'll regret ever doing that." Imposter Vash said in the same quiet voice. Remember that I offered to take you with me." Then looking Jenna up and down with his own look of disgust, he added, "I didn't want used goods anyway."

Vash watched Jenna's nostrils flar and her stance change slightly. Her pupils changed from round, to a slit in less than a second. He recognized that stance from the last fight she was in and knew that this guy didn't stand a chance. In the split second that Vash hesitated he discovered himself actually wanting Jenna to pulverise the human that stood before him. Vash's concience won out however and before Jenna could strike, he was already moving. Vash ducked under the punch she aimed at the imposter and in the same motion grabed her by the waiste and threw her over his shoulder.

"Time to go." He said as if he were merely out for a walk. Vash headed for the opposite direction of the imposter and the crowd that was now gathering. He had to hold on tight to his charge as she kicked the air and punched his back trying to get free. She was also screaming curses at Imposter Vash, and probably him, all the while in that same language Vash had never heard before.

Imposter Vash wiped the blood from his chin as he walked over to where his group of supporters stood watching. Howard approached him warily and asked, "What do we do now boss."

Without looking backwards Imposter Vash said, "Kill her."

"So does that mean that she's the one calling the shots?" Howard asked cautiosly.

"No," Imposter Vash answered, "The guy in the red coat is the brains, she's the brawns, but she knows I'm not the real Vash. Howard I think you were right." Imposter Vash stopped walking, "She also suspects we're up to something. We need to get them both out of the way before we can carry on with our plans, but they are too strong together. So here's what we do…" Imposter Vash's gang surrounded him to listen to his plan.

Enduring the screaming and the punches, Vash kept walking. Knowing what she was cabable of he wanted to get clear of the situation and allow Jenna time to calm down. Vash was now realizing that along with her powers and ability to heal herself, dragons had an amazingly short temper, one that he hoped he wouldn't be getting the brunt of now that her advisary was out of the picture. Vash didn't know how far he had gone. Even when she had stopped struggling, he kept walking, the tensness of her muscles told him that she was still angry, and if he let go, She'll come after me. He thought.

It wasn't until he heard her heave a large sigh and felt her body go completely limp that he finally stopped walking. Looking over his shoulder Vash could see her hair cascading upside down and her arms hanging limply next to her head.

"I'm ok." She muttered into his back, "You can put me down now."

Vash looked at her and raised and eyebrow, "You sure about that?"

"Yes, I'm calm now. I'm not going to do anything to him." Jenna answered.

"Him? I was more worried about me." Vash said with a slight look of aprehension on his face.

Jenna turned her head and gave him a reproachful look through her hair.

"All right all right. I'll put you down." Vash said as he bent and set her on her feet. She'd been upside down for so long that as soon she was standing upright, she lost her balance and Vash had to catch her again.

"Whoa, steady there." He said as he kept her upright with his hand.

Jenna put a hand on her head and murmered "dizzy." Then she shook her head to clear it and had to grab ahold of Vash's jacket before she completely fell over.

"Well that wasn't such a good idea." Vash said as he lowered her to the ground.

"I wasn't hanging upside down for my own amusement you know." Jenna answered and shot Vash a rather nasty look.

Vash sighed and sat down next to her. "Sorry about that. I just didn't want to see you get into trouble, or get hurt." Jenna snorted but stayed silent. Vash looked sidelong at her and saw her looking away from him. Yup, she's still mad. Blowing air out of his mouth he leaned back on his elbows and watched the moons and stars in the sky. Best to just wait it out. Vash began to hum the only song he ever heard Rem singing.

Jenna wasn't as angry as she had innitialy been, but her anger was still smouldering inside her. She couldn't look at Vash because she was afraid she would say something she would regret later and taking it out on Vash wasn't right at all when it was the Imposter who had said those hurtful words. Those words which still echoed inside of her head. "Used goods" he had called her, and looked at her as if she were a cheap whore. Jenna clenched her fists and began punching the sand between her legs, muttering curse words between each blow. Before she knew it she was crying along with those punches, her mask of anger falling away to reveal her hurt.

Vash watched Jenna from the corner of his eye. He sat silently while she punched the sand and muttered words that he could not understand, but could guess their meaning. While he watched her, he began to realize that the brave and often angry front she always put up was just that, a front. That her temper wasn't so much on a short fuse, but that it was her way of not showing her more vulnerable emotions and dealing with the situation at hand. Much like me Vash thought sadly.

Vash waited patiently until she was done expressing herself to the sand. He looked back up at the night sky and pretended to study the nearest moon. "Do you think that the old legends could be true?" he asked seamingly to no one in particular

Jenna looked up at him, curiosity written all over her tear stained face.

Vash glanced at her, then looked back up at the sky. "The moon," he said and pointed upwards, "do you think its true, that it could be made of cheese?"

Jenna almost choked. She had never heard something more obserd in her life. Jenna first looked at the moon, and back at Vash, then she began to laugh. Whipeing away her tears with the heel of her hand she said, "That's the most rediculous thing I've ever heard! Where did you come up with that?" and laughed all the harder when she realized what he was doing.

Vash grinned at her. Mission accomplished. He had known that as soon as he could get her laughing again, she'd be ok. After all, laughter was the best medicine to cure an injured heart. "You ready to go back now?" he asked her gently as her laughter began to die away.

Sniffling she said, "Yeah, and thanks." She smiled at him.

"Don't worry about it," he said as he stood up, "I can't ever pass up the oportunity to help a pretty lady in distress." Vash helped Jenna to her feet and added seriously, "That was a very cruel thing to say, Jenna, and I'm sorry."

Jenna looked at Vash, her eyebrows furrowd in question, "Why are you apologizing? You didn't say anything wrong."

Vash shrugged as they started walking towards their campsite, "I just felt that someone needed to apologize for what that jerk said. I hate seeing you cry." He mumbled.

Jenna cocked her head to one side, a small smile playing at her lips, "What was that?" she asked, even though she had heard every word.

Vash looked around in panic, "I uh, nothing." He said as he laughed his stupid laugh and walked faster. "We'd better hurry or Fantus will have eaten all the donuts!" he called over his shoulder.

Jenna shook her head and smiled at his idiotic ways. "Oh Vash, what am I going to do with you?" she laughed and ran to catch up.