Counting The Water

Did anyone bring any water? asks Sweezus.

I didn't, says Arthur.

We left in rather a hurry, says Kierkegaard.

I have water, says Victor. Be prepared, that's our motto.

I thought it was Keeping SA Safe, says Sweezus.

And how do you think we do that? asks Victor.

Okay, says Sweezus. Can I have some?

I'll see what I've got, says Victor.

He stops cycling.

Arthur is jolted, as the back of the ladder stops too.

Arthur falls off his bicycle.

You okay? asks Sweezus. Shit, you're bleeding.

It's just my elbow, says Arthur. 

Victor examines his water bottle. Slish-slosh. 

Half full, says Victor.

Or half empty, says Kierkegaard.

If you're a pessimist, says Victor.

Or completely full, says Arthur. If you're a chemist.

You delirious? asks Sweezus.

A chemistry joke, says Arthur. Half air half water.

I thought you were googling maths jokes, says Sweezus.

It was included, says Arthur. Because of the fractions.

Do you need any water? asks Victor.

Arthur takes the bottle. Tips water into his cupped hand. Dips his bleeding elbow in it. Wipes the elbow dry on his shorts. Drinks the red water.

It's gross, but it's Arthur. He's done worse.

Kierkegaard spots a pair of hooded plovers.

What are those? asks Kierkegaard. We should record our bird sightings for Gaius.

Birds, says Sweezus. No you're right. We should. I reckon they're oystercatchers.

They're not oystercatchers, says Victor. They don't look like Saint Roley. 

True, says Sweezus. Gaius'll know, if we record their characteristics

Too late now, says Kierkegaard. They've gone.

Come on Victor, says Arthur. 

Yes, come on Victor, says Kierkegaard. You're a policeman, trained in observation.

They had black hoods, white underparts and red eye rings, says Victor.

That's a win for the police force! 

Two, counting the water.