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Gardna, the Ultimate Shield

 "...now, I believe that the next course of action would be to do some reconnaissance. After all, neither one of us are exactly familiar with our surroundings. So, shall we get started, Rider? Perhaps on the way, you could enlighten me on your wish upon the Grail." Souta's question still lingered in the air, as the two began to walk. He was met by silence for a good bit of time. Perhaps he said something wrong? Or perhaps he insulted the Heroic Spirit. He truly hoped neither was the case. The knight was quiet as his master spoke. It seemed to be a combination of general respect and uneasiness, as if he didn't know what to say. Finally though, he answered. "My name... I apologize, my master, but I am a knight with no name. My deeds they... Well, let us say I was not deemed worthy of a name." "A knight with no name?" Souta asked, quite intrigued by this. Nevertheless, he sighed. "Keep your secrets then...for the moment, revealing your name most likely wouldn't be for the best. Now...tell me, what are you seeking for from the Grail, Rider?" "What I wish... I have but one wish. I wish to return to my time, so I may be a splendid knight for my king," the Rider explained. "Pray tell, my Master, what do you wish for so much that you would risk your life in this Holy Grail Game?" Souta stopped in his stride when Rider spoke to him. A heavy sigh escaped his lips as he turned to look at his Servant. "It's...a wish not for myself...but for my clan, the Aozaki..." he began to explain. "We are...not one of the noble families of Magus, not by a long shot. My wish is...is for the Aozaki clan to have its glory and status fully restored..." "If you believe your duty to your family is reason enough to fight in this game, then I shall be your sword that leads you to victory," Rider stated. Souta looked at Rider, nodding slowly. "Thank you..." he said, before continuing his stride. ...it's truly not my own wish, however. But...I have a duty I must uphold and fulfill for their sake...I must, against all odds, survive this game... However, Rider said something yet again in those responses. "Game? Rider, why do you call this Holy Grail War a game?" he asked, curious to understand his Servant's phrasing about that. "..." Rider was silent at first, mulling over how to answer. "This is not a war." the Rider finally answered. "War is the hatred of brothers turning against brothers, and the pains of whole families turn asunder. It is the suffering of innocence and the death of justice. It is rampant atrocities and horrors the likes of which can drive you insane. It is the passing of years, of countless lifetimes, enduring—praying for peace to come and continuing on when it doesn't. This Holy Grail 'War' is a farce compared to true war." Now this was an answer Souta wasn't expecting, but nevertheless...he figured it would be, especially coming from a knight. "I see. No doubt, you've seen war with your own eyes to which you can accurately judge." he nodded. "Very well, I believe your wish is an admirable one...so I'll do my best in helping you, as you help me." "As long as you don't lose sight of your light, I shall be by your side." the knight reaffirmed. "Now, do we have modern clothes? I believe walking around in full armor is bound to draw attention to myself." "Hmmm, unfortunately I don't believe I have clothes that could fit you, Rider." Souta lamented, seeing this unfortunate to be in this predicament. "Nevertheless, I believe the mall is open...which is strange. America is strange...I'll have you stay in spirit form and out of sight until we get you the clothes." With this, Souta separated from Rider, who he watched dissipate from sight...most likely remaining in spirit form as requested. He was surely lucky that the U.S. had malls open at 2 A.M., although this was most unorthodox for him. Clothes shopping...well, if the Heroic Spirit wishes to blend in, I suppose this was to be a given. Souta thought, walking into the mall.