[Why does that proffered hand always feel like a threat. It isn't the first time Knives has asked him to join his side. And at least this time, it's probably an innocuous offer. They should investigate, Vash knows there's much more to learn. But the idea of going it alone with him, disappearing when Wolfwood could very well be waiting for him at home...]

You need warmer clothes before you do that. [He pulls his own coat tighter around himself as he finally seems to realize the chill seeping into his bones. He lifts himself out the snow, before turning to offer Knives his hand. He'll turn the offer around.] And we need to be more prepared. I went running into the woods when I first got here and almost died. We can't heal like we used to, and I'll bet you don't have near the strength that you should.

[It's not a no. It's a clever dodge to help himself be more prepared for what may yet come.]