Alex

MC: I’m honored you’d say that, but I still have a lot to learn. Compared to the other members, there’s only so much I can do...
Alex: You shouldn’t put yourself down. People have said you’ve been a great help. Of course, I rely on you too.
MC: ...! I’ll do my best!
(He’s the commander of Chevalier and the guild master... Yet he never acts like he’s above anyone.)
MC: ...Maybe the reason why the knights respect him, and the people of the town admire Chevalier so much, is all because of Alex’s character.
Alex: Hm? What’s on your mind?
MC: Eh? Oh, I just said what I was thinking—
???: I feel a wave of love coming from this direction~...Oh my goodness!?
Harriet: MC! Alex! Wait—are you two on a date!?
Alex: ...MC. It seems we’re on a date now.
MC: Huh!? No, no, no! I mean... I don’t think this is a date!
Harriet: Whaaat!? A man and woman, walking hand in hand, and you say it’s not a date!? Then what is it!?
MC: Yeah... fair point.
Alex: Heh.
I didn’t have the skills to dodge Harriet’s teasing…
All I could do was feel my cheeks grow hotter, as the gentle breeze brushed across them.

Chapter 3 - An Unnamed Gift
It happened on a clear, sunny day.
I went to a fabric shop to pick up the ordered flag for the Chevalier guild when—
MC: Huh!? Sir Alex!?
Alex: Hey there, MC. I’m counting on you today.
MC: Me too—wait, I mean! I heard someone would be coming with me, but...
Alex: Ah yes, that someone is me. Now then, shall we go inside?
MC: Wait—!?
...
Weaver: Oh! Welcome, Holy Knight of our time!
(“Holy Knight”... that’s the title given to the guild master of Chevalier.)
Alex: It’s true I’m called a Holy Knight. But I’m not someone grand enough to deserve such a warm welcome.
Weaver: What are you saying? You’re the hero who ended the Nation-Crushing War!
The Nation-Crushing War — it was one of the most famous and largest wars in the world’s history.
Almost 10 countries, big and small, split into two alliances and fought for nearly 100 years.
It finally ended about 10 years ago, when Alstoria joined the fight... so it’s still fresh in people’s minds.
Weaver: Back then, everyone lived in fear, wondering when the war would start to spread. And you, Sir Alex, put a stop to it! You’re nothing less than a true hero!
Alex: ...Thank you. That means a lot to me. By the way, could I see the new flag I ordered...?
Weaver: Oh, of course! You’ll be taking this too, right? Let me just find the invoice...
The shopkeeper went to the back, and a quiet silence settled between Alex and me.
Alex: ......
(I feel like... Sir Alex looks a little down right now...)
I wasn’t sure enough to ask him about it, so instead, I looked toward the small box the shopkeeper mentioned earlier.
Alex: That’s something I ordered personally. It’s a gift—for someone important to me.
MC: Someone important...?
Alex: He’s my junior apprentice. We used to train together under Lord Orland.
MC: Lord Orland? The Sword Saint...!?
Alex: That’s right. He always looked after me.
The title Sword Saint is even higher than Holy Knight.
Lord Orland used to be the former leader of Chevalier—Alex’s predecessor.
Now, he serves the Dream King as the Grandmaster, making him someone far above any person's level...
(Once again... these people are amazing.)
Alex: MC?
MC: Oh—sorry! So, um...

~Choices~
-Where is your junior apprentice now? (☼) ✓
-What’s the gift for? (☽)
~Choices~

MC: Where is your junior apprentice now? He must be close to you, right?
(I’ve never heard of anyone in the guild being Alex’s junior apprentice though…)
Alex: ...Yeah. He was a very important person to me. He...
MC: Huh? Is something wrong—?
Weaver: Sorry for the wait! Found the invoice! Now, where were we again?
The shopkeeper’s return cut off our conversation...
Before I could hear Alex’s answer, we left the shop—leaving his words unfinished.

Chapter 4 - The Ideal Form Of A Hero
Today was the day of a special ceremony — held to celebrate 10 years since the victory in the "Nation-Crushing War."
I came to the royal castle of Alstoria with Alex and the other knights.
(I never thought I'd be allowed to attend...)
MC: Um, Alex, thank you.
Alex: Oh? What are you thanking me for?
MC: This kind of ceremony doesn’t need a Keeper to attend, but… you recommended me so I could learn, right?
Alex: Ah, that. Of course. I expect a lot from you.
MC: …Thank you so much! I’ll listen carefully.
Alex: Haha, you don’t have to be that tense. You sound like you're about to watch without even blinking. The speeches will be a bit boring, so just relax.
MC: You’ll be giving a speech too, right? As the guest of honor?
Alex: That’s right. It’s a big responsibility. Anyway… I should go now to get ready.
MC: Good luck. I’ll be watching from here.
Alex: Then, I’ll see you later.
...
At the ceremony, they talked about how the Alstoria Knights fought bravely and how amazing Alex was as a hero.
When the king gave him a medal, Alex looked even more dignified than usual.
Crowd: Sir Alex!! Congratulations!

Alex raised his hand toward the people, smiling gently.
But…
(Alex…?)
His smile looked a little too perfect—almost like it was pasted on.
(That’s rude to think… but it felt strange.)
That small uncomfortable feeling stuck in my chest.
...
After the ceremony ended safely, I went to the waiting room given to Alex to report that everyone was ready to go.
(Huh? The door’s slightly open.)
MC: Excuse me, Alex?
Alex: …Oh, it’s you. Sorry, I was just feeling a little emotional.
(“Emotional”…)

~Flashbacks~
Alex: ......
~Flashbacks~

His sad expression looked just like when we went to pick up the flag together.
As I wondered whether I should ask him more…
Alex: Can I ask you something honestly? At today’s ceremony… did I look like a hero?

~Choices~
-You were definitely a hero. (☼)
-What do you mean? (☽) ✓
~Choices~

MC: Umm… what do you mean?
Alex: Nothing special. Just tell me what you truly thought.
MC: If that’s what you want… I think you were definitely a hero. Everyone sees you that way.
Alex: …I see. Yes, you’re right. Sorry for the strange question. Thank you.
MC: No, it’s fine…
Alex held the medal tightly in his hand, then put it into his coat.
MC: Um, Alex?
Alex: What is it?
MC: If there’s anything I can do, please tell me.
Alex: Heh… thank you. You’re kind.
He smiled at me, but didn’t say anything deeper after that.
And I felt a quiet, painful tightness in my chest… like I had been gently pushed away.

Chapter 5 - His Idea Of A True Hero
(I need to finish writing the report on yesterday’s ceremony.)
As I move my favorite pen across the paper, part of my mind drifts back to the conversation we had on the way home last night.

~Last Night~
Alex: MC, I plan to take the day off tomorrow. I'll delegate the command authority to Emilio, so I'd like you to assist him. I'm counting on you.
~Last Night~

(He said he was taking the day off… I wonder if Alex went somewhere.)
...
(With this, today’s work is done!)
On my way back after submitting the report to the Federation Guild, I walked alone along a shortcut to the Cheval Church.
(Huh? That person’s back just now… was that Alex? What’s he doing in a place like this?)
I hesitate for a moment, but in the end, I can’t help but follow after him—
...
Alex: …Hm? MC?
MC: …! S-Sorry. I saw you in the alleyway… So...
Alex: I see, so that’s what happened. To think I didn’t even notice such a lovely lady tailing me… Maybe I’m more drunk than I thought.
At his feet are several empty wine bottles.
MC: Did you drink all of that, Alex?
Alex didn’t answer, only shrugged.
Alex: Even after all that wine, it still wasn’t enough. I just went and bought more wine. It’s not much of a place, but… if you don’t mind, would you like to join me?
MC: I can’t drink that much since I’m not that strong, but… if you’re okay with me, I’ll keep you company.
Alex: Thank you. I’m sure he’s happy too… A sweet flower blooming in the bar — he’d be smiling.
Alex’s gaze, directed at the gravestone in front of him, softens as if he’s remembering the past.
Alex: …He’s my junior apprentice.
MC: ...!

~Flashbacks~
Alex: That’s something I ordered personally. It’s a gift—for someone important to me.
MC: Someone important...?
Alex: He’s my junior apprentice. We used to train together under Lord Orland.
~Flashbacks~

MC: He was someone very important to you… wasn’t he, Alex?
(So he passed away…)
Alex: Yes. He was a knight who fought alongside me during the Nation-Crushing War. Do you know much about that war?
MC: Not really… I mean, not in detail.
Alex: I see. You were probably still a child at the time, so it’s understandable. …The Nation-Crushing War lasted about a hundred years, but that doesn’t mean it was constant fighting. There were many cycles of war and ceasefire, but the forces were always evenly matched—and many nations, including Alstoria, chose to stay neutral and just watch from the sidelines. But about ten years ago, it was different. There had been a long ceasefire, but people were growing uneasy, sensing that war would break out again and spread out. Everyone was at their limit. If the fighting continued any longer, the world would have descended into total chaos. And then, the moment the flames of war reignited—Alstoria stepped in, choosing to fight to protect the world.
MC: And you went to war too, right?
Alex: Yes. I fought with my junior apprentice—him, the one resting here. Together, we cornered the enemy general. But… we were counterattacked. I took a wound so deep I still bear the scar, and I was knocked out of the fight for a while. But he—he took down the enemy general. And in return… he gave his life.
MC: ...!
Alex: I… I merely survived. And yet—when the war ended and I awoke from my injury, I was being called a "hero." Honestly, it’s very laughable.

~Choices~
-Why did it turn out like that? (☼)
-…Your junior apprentice was the real hero? (☽) ✓
~Choices~

MC: Then... you believe that he—your junior apprentice—is the true "hero"?

Alex: …Yes. I'm nothing more than his shadow. Still... if standing as a "hero" helps bring peace of mind to the people—If it can bring hope to those wounded and afraid in the aftermath of war. ...Then I was willing to carry that title and walk this path. But sometimes, I just want to run away from the heavy burden it brings.
MC: ......
Alex: …Are you disappointed in me? This is what lies inside the man the world calls a "hero."
The image of Alex I had come to know flashes through my mind.

~Flashbacks~
Alex: Show your spirit! Put all your determination into a single strike!
...
Pastry shop owner: Sir knight! Thanks as always. Please come by our shop later, too!
Alex: I’d be happy to.
~Flashbacks~

What I remember is how he inspired the knights during training, how kindly and warmly he treated the townspeople.
MC: I'm not disappointed at all. You're the one who holds the Chevalier together—you’re its pillar, no doubt about that. Because the Chevalier exists... because you exist, people are able to feel safe. I think you're a true "hero."
Alex: …Heh, is that so. You've got me there.
Alex being admired as a “hero” isn’t just because of his achievements in the Nation-Crushing War. I truly believe that.
And yet… he kept his gaze on the gravestone, eyes soft with what looked like quiet guilt.

[Sun End]
Chapter 1 - The Fate A Hero Must Bear
Well-dressed Man: Wh-Who are you…? Aaaah! …! P-Please help me! At least spare my life…!
Person in Black: Foolish commoner, remember this well. —The next to disappear… is Alstoria.
...
As the morning sun shone through the stained glass, a nobleman with an injured arm rushed into Cheval Church, the guild home of the Chevaliers.
Alex: “The next to disappear will be Alstoria,” you say… That’s what the attacker said to you?
Nobleman: Yes, I couldn't have misheard it. He definitely said that.
MC: …!
Cyrus: …Could it be the same person responsible for the recent string of incidents? If so, it's highly likely this isn't a lone perpetrator. The locations of the incidents are gradually getting closer to the royal castle, too…
Alex: Your assessment is accurate, Cyrus. The attacker is, in all likelihood, a remnant of the Nation-Crushing War.
Cyrus: …It’s true that all the victims so far have been nobles who gained something from that war. If Emilio or Harriet were here, we could split up and investigate more efficiently…
Alex: The attack may have been timed to take advantage of our relatively low readiness after the ceremony. It seems they haven’t been sitting idle over the past ten years either. And if they're headed toward the castle along this path… —I will be the next target.
Cyrus: …I believe so as well.
Alex: But this is actually good news. If it ends with me, no one else will have to suffer. Cyrus, for now, go and alert any individuals connected to the war who haven’t yet been attacked.
Cyrus: Yes, leave it to me.
MC: ......
("Good news"… how can he say that…)

~Flashbacks~
Alex: Yes. I fought with my junior apprentice—him, the one resting here. Together, we cornered the enemy general. But… we were counterattacked. I took a wound so deep I still bear the scar, and I was knocked out of the fight for a while. But he—he took down the enemy general. And in return… he gave his life.
~Flashbacks~

The words from that night suddenly come back to my mind.
Thinking of his junior apprentice who gave his life… I'm sure he wouldn’t hesitate to sacrifice himself as well.
(Is that… the kind of "hero" Alex believes in?)
...
After dinner, when things had quieted down a bit, I decided to visit Alex’s office.
Alex: MC. What brings you here?
MC: I’m sorry for coming so suddenly, um...
I couldn’t find the right words after that and lowered my head slightly.
Alex: No need to rush. Take your time.
MC: ...Thank you. There’s something I really want to ask you.
Alex: Something you want to ask?
MC: Yes. I was wondering... if maybe you think sacrificing yourself is part of your duty—as a "hero."
Alex: ......
MC: I just don’t think it’s right to call it “good news” when you are the one being targeted.
Alex: So... that’s why you came all the way here?
MC: I know I may be overstepping, but I just couldn’t ignore it—
Gently, he placed his hand on my shoulder, softly patting it as if to calm me down.
Alex: I’m sorry to make you anxious. But don’t worry, I’m not being reckless. As long as the enemy is human, I’m not someone who would lose, no matter how many come at me. Right?
MC: That’s... true, but still—
Alex: I truly appreciate your concern. But it’s not necessary. I wouldn’t take on a fight I have no chance of winning. Even if I’m a fake hero, the feelings I hold are real. My desire to protect this country, its people, and you—everyone—is real.
His words were perfect. His smile was perfect.
But it was the same smile I had seen at the ceremony the other day... And just like then, it filled my chest with an unexplainable unease.

Chapter 2 - Beyond the Burning Night
Three days had passed since the day the injured nobleman rushed in—
That night, a strong, howling wind was blowing.
Man’s voice: Fire—there’s a fire!
MC: Huh…!?
Startled by the voice echoing from outside the window, I jumped to my feet.
But the view from the window looked just like always...
(A fire? But where!? Don’t tell me—)
...
Hastily getting dressed and running outside, I saw that the peaceful town had transformed completely.
Alex: MC! Thank goodness you're safe!
MC: Alex! This is—
Alex: Judging by how the flames spread, it's almost certainly arson. It has to be them. To think they'd even go so far as to target the townspeople...! The knights are doing their best to fight the fire, but the wind is making it spread fast. You should head towards—
MC: No, I want to help!
Alex: I appreciate the sentiment, but firefighting is dangerous. I can't allow you to put yourself at risk.
MC: I'm the guild keeper of Chevalier. I can't just run away and leave everyone behind. Um... I can help guide people to safety, deliver messages—there has to be something I can do!
Alex: You...
MC: Huh?
Alex: No... doing what must be done. It sounds simple, but in times like this, it’s incredibly difficult. To have a guild keeper like you by my side... I’m truly fortunate.
He placed his hand gently on my head—and that kindness made my heart race.

Alex: Now, let's go. Let’s protect the people togeth—Ah...!
—Clang!
Just as he took a step forward, his sword deflected something that had flown at us from the shadows.
With a dull thud, it hit the ground—it was...
MC: A knife...!?
Alex: Yeah. They're here. Stay behind me, MC.
MC: O-okay.
Peeking out from behind Alex, I focused my gaze.
And then—cutting through the flying embers, cloaked figures in black appeared one after another, surrounding us.
Raider A: Holy Knight Alex, Savior Hero! We are the ones whose homeland you erased!
Raider B: It’s true that the war ended with Alstoria’s intervention. But we lost our homes, our families!
Raider C: To us, you are the evil ones! Our war isn’t over yet! Now you will feel the pain of having your country wiped away!
Alex & MC: ......
Until now, I’d thought of war as something that happened in faraway lands.
But seeing their faces, hearing their words—I understood.
(Of course… war isn’t a fairytale. These people are victims too… You can’t just call them “evil.”)
The screams of Alstoria’s people pulled me back to reality.
(But even so—I still can’t accept what they’re doing.)
Alex: ...I won’t deny your grief. I won’t pretend the past never happened. But—
Alex straightened his sword and looked directly at the people in black.
Alex: I won’t stop moving forward. I stand as a hero, bearing all the lives lost—friend or foe alike.
MC: ...!
Raider A: Such arrogance! You say you bear all their deaths!?
Alex: Call it arrogance if you must. No excuse can change the fact that I’ve taken many lives. As long as I stand armed in front of others, I’m prepared to die. But—not now. I’ll carry even your rage on my shoulders… and still, I won’t stop trying to save lives. Innocent lives should never be lost.
Raider A: Then take on our fury and fall! Hero Alex, prepare yourself!!
With a roar that shook the night, the raiders rushed at us all at once.
MC: Alex!
Alex: Stay back, MC. —Don’t worry. You have nothing to fear. Because I have something to protect. So I’ll stand here—and take it all.
Shielding me behind his back, Alex swung his sword—unleashing a powerful strike.

Last Chapter - A Hero's Resolve And Determination
The soft light of dawn gently wrapped around the cityscape of Alstoria.
Alex: Cyrus, help out over here. Fortunately, there are no serious injuries, but we still need to carry the wounded.
Cyrus: Understood.
MC: I’ll clean up around here.
Alex: Thank you. I’m counting on you.
I steadily moved the rubble I could carry off to the side of the road.
The royal castle, the town, and Chevalier—
Because everyone joined forces, the fire was put out much sooner than expected.
(To think the flames had spread so far at one point, and yet… not a single death. It's truly a miracle.)
After giving directions to the knights, Alex headed toward the Cheval Church, where the injured had been gathered.
The sword technique he used to take down the attackers in an instant—
I can still remember it vividly, almost to my own surprise.
(There’s no way he isn’t tired... Once things settle down, maybe I’ll go talk to him.)
...
(I wonder where Alex is...)
After most of the cleanup was done, I walked around looking for his familiar pure-white knight uniform—
MC: Ah...
At the top of a hill overlooking the town, just past a back alley, I spotted him.
MC: Alex, so this is where you were.
Alex: Oh, it’s you. Thanks for your help— you must be tired.
MC: I’d like to say I’m not... but a little bit, yeah. Still, aren’t you even more tired?
Alex: I’m fine. I’ve been through far worse situations.
MC: That’s probably true, especially for you knights.
We looked at each other and smiled. Just that small exchange made me strangely happy...
Together, as if naturally in sync, we looked down over the town still littered with rubble.
Alex: The damage to the buildings is severe, but we managed to protect every life. That’s something to be proud of. You did well too, as part of Chevalier.
MC: Thank you. That really means a lot to me.
Alex’s gentle smile suddenly tightened.
Alex: I captured all the attackers to protect this town and its people. ...A hero to some is a villain to others. I knew that, and yet... it still pains me that so many were caught up in this. But what hurts just as much... is that I couldn’t save those who opposed us. Back then, enemy and ally alike were struggling in a war no one could stop. We all shared the same fate, but I could only save those on this side.
MC: ...
Alex: ...Still, I understand now—this very conflict is part of the path I walk.
He lifted his face, and behind him, the Chevalier flag fluttered in the wind.
Alex: Attacks like today’s—acts of revenge targeting civilians—may not be the last. But no matter who comes... I will protect them every time. With me and the knights of Chevalier, the people will be safe.
His eyes, fixed on that flag symbolizing our mission to protect this dream world, burned with unwavering resolve.
Just looking at him made my heart tremble.

(I want to know more about Alex—what he thinks, what he’s aiming for, and what he stands by... I want to be by his side and support him.)
MC: Um, Alex—
???: Lord Alex~~~!
A lively voice from the side drowned out my words.
When I looked over, a crowd of townspeople came running, waving their hands energetically.
Alstoria Resident A: Lord Alex! Thank you for saving us and our town!
Alstoria Resident B: You truly are a real hero...!
Alstoria Resident C: Lord Alex, you’re the true hero who crushes any evil!
Alex: ...!
(Everyone feels that strongly about him...)
As proud as I was, I also felt a flicker of concern rise in my heart.
Alex: ...It’s okay.
As if sensing my worries, Alex smiled and drew his sword.
The morning sun reflected brightly off the blade.
Alex: Everyone, listen! Once again, I vow on this sword—To protect the peace of this world—!!!
—After finishing his speech, Alex lowered the tip of his greatsword to the ground and turned to me.
Alex: MC. Speaking to everyone just now made me realize something again. I must be a hero for everything I carry. But not with regret or sorrow—In my own way… in a way that even he would be proud of.
MC: ...Yes!
Alex: The path I walk as a hero... I want you to be the one to witness it by my side.
MC: Of course! I’m your guild keeper—I’ll always support my Meister!
As if a weight had lifted from him, Alex’s expression became brighter and more open—
And seeing that, I smiled too.
The morning sun shone dazzlingly bright, as if blessing the journey ahead of him...

[Moon End]
Chapter 1 - Seeking The Form That Is Desired

~Flashbacks~
Alex: But sometimes, I just want to run away from the heavy burden it brings. …Are you disappointed in me? This is what lies inside the man the world calls a "hero."
~Flashbacks~

A few days had passed since that day.
MC: A letter of invitation for Alex—from the Land of Literature?
Alex: Yes. They want me to give a lecture and an interview to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the end of the Nation-Crushing War. I’d be happy to attend—could I ask you to send a reply on my behalf?
MC: Of course. But… are you sure about this?
Even without saying exactly what I meant, he seemed to understand. Alex smiled gently and gave a firm nod.
Alex: Of course. After all, I am a “hero.”
(Thinking about how he was before... I can’t help but worry a little—but still…)
MC: …Understood! I’ll send back an acceptance.
I tried to respond as cheerfully as I could, but Alex quietly placed his hand on my head.
Alex: Sorry for making you worry. And maybe I shouldn't say this to someone who’s seen me at my lowest… but I’ll be fine. I’m not that fragile. I am—Alex, the hero.
MC: …Alex…
Alex: On the day of the event, aside from a few guards, you’ll be coming along too. Sorry for the trouble, but I’m counting on you to help with the preparations.
MC: Yes! I’ll do my best—thank you for having me!
Alex: Good. I’ll see you later, then.
He didn’t show even a trace of the pain he had shared with me before—
His kindness and strength, still caring about me even now, just hurt all the more.
...
Chancellor: Lord Alex, and all of the Chevaliers—welcome, and thank you for coming.
Some time had passed since we sent our reply… After crossing the Moonroad and spending one night along the way, we arrived at the castle.
I walked just behind Alex, side by side with Harriet. Two knights followed behind us, serving as escorts.
Royal Man: So you must be Lord Alex. What a rare fortune it is to meet the famed hero spoken of far and wide.
Alex: Thank you. I am deeply honored to have been invited.
Royal Man: In our country, where literature and recorded history are our lifeblood, your heroic tales are widely known and celebrated. The people are very much looking forward to your lecture.
Harriet: Who would've thought a royal would come greet us in person? You're really beloved, Alex~
MC: Yeah… you’re right.
Even though I still had my worries, Alex’s smile never once faltered…
Voices praising Alex’s accomplishments echoed from every corner of the castle.
...
(Maybe I woke up because I went to bed at a different time than usual.)
I walked slowly down the quiet, empty hallway, taking a little stroll. As I turned the corner, I saw—
MC: …Alex?
Alex: Oh, it’s you. Can’t sleep?
MC: No, I woke up in the middle of the night. I think I went to bed too early. What about you, Alex? Don’t you need to sleep?
Alex: I tried, but… even after getting into bed, I couldn’t fall asleep.
MC: Are you nervous about the lecture tomorrow?
Alex: Nervous… yes, maybe it’s something like that. I always wonder if I’ll be able to live up to everyone’s image of a “hero.” Whenever I face an event like this, I start thinking about it again. I came out to get some fresh air to clear my head—but… maybe a true hero wouldn’t let something like this trouble him.
Alex looked out the window into the night sky.
In the pitch-black darkness, the moon shone brightly, casting a soft, sorrowful light on his mask.

Chapter 2 - What Is Lost During War
The lecture went on as planned, and the venue was packed with people.
Harriet: Alex really is popular, huh? He gave the lecture so smoothly too. The way people look at him—with admiration—that's love, too!
MC: Yeah...
Harriet: Huh? You look kind of worried. Is it because you love Alex?
MC: Huh? Ah... no, it's not love or anything—
Harriet: It is love. And I think Alex really trusts you too.
As Harriet said that, I looked over at Alex.
Harriet: You should support him with your love. I feel like he's been under a lot of pressure lately.
After the lecture, Alex went to the plaza and spoke with each listener one by one.
...
Old Woman: Oh, I can't believe I got to meet the great hero! I'm so glad I lived this long...
Alex: I'm the one who's happy to meet you. Please, keep living a long life.
...
Merchant-looking Man: Do you remember the bandits who even the soldiers here couldn't deal with? You caught them so quickly—it was a huge help.
Alex: I'm just glad I could help. And if anything happens again, please don't hesitate to reach out. But honestly, it’s best when you and the others don’t need to step in at all during situations like this.
...
Young Boy: One day, I want to become an amazing "hero" just like you, Alex!
Boy’s Mother: Oh dear, sorry about that, Alex. He just suddenly said that...
Alex: Haha, it's an honor. I look forward to a future where I can fight alongside him. Young man—let's work together to keep this world peaceful.
Boy: Yeah!!
...

The long line of people wanting to meet Alex was finally coming to an end.
Harriet had returned to the castle early to prepare for the evening banquet, so now it was just Alex, me, and two knights guarding us.
(Looks like that man is the last person.)
MC: Alright, next person, please.
I guided the last man toward Alex.
Young Man: ...It’s an honor to meet you, Sir Alex.
He looked nervous. With a stiff smile, he took off his hat.
Young Man: Actually... a long time ago, I was saved by the Chevalier on the battlefield.
Alex: I see. I’m so glad you’ve made it this far safely. I’m sure it hasn’t been easy for you.
Young Man: No, it hasn’t. I can never return to my hometown... But I’ll live out this life to the end.
Alex: Yes. That’s what I hope for, too.
As they shook hands—
Young Man: …But still. I can’t forgive you.
Alex: —!
MC: !? Alex!
The young man suddenly raised a sharp knife. But—before it could reach Alex, the two knights quickly restrained him.
Even so, the man shouted furiously and struggled violently.
Young Man: Let me go! I want to hurt him, just like I was hurt! Answer me!! Why… why didn’t you save my sister!? If you had just gotten there 5 minutes—no, even 2 minutes earlier! She wouldn’t have died!! Saying you’ll protect everything—what a lie!! What kind of knight are you!? What kind of hero can’t even save one small life!?
Alex: ......
Alex: You’re right. I—we—can’t save every life. If giving up this life would ease your pain, I would offer it to you. But… there are still people I can protect. That’s why—I can’t die yet.
Young Man: Ha... hahaha! What a beautiful speech! You don’t actually want to die at all, do you!? You’re a mighty hero! I bet you’ve never even lost someone you care about!
MC: ...!
Alex’s words at the gravestone flashed through my mind.
I almost said something—but—
Alex: ......
It was Alex himself who raised his hand and stopped me.
Young Man: Why... why didn’t you save her!? Why!? Why!? Why...!?
The young man’s cries tore through the red sky like blood. And Alex... just kept bowing his head deeply, without saying a word.

Last Chapter - Secrets Beneath The Moon
Elegant music from the orchestra and the cheerful voices of the guests echoed through the hall.
After the lecture had ended and everything was packed up, a standing-style banquet was held at the castle.
Well-built man: Sir Alex, please tell us about your brave actions on the battlefield!
Elegant woman: More importantly, Sir Alex, what kind of woman do you like?
Alex: Haha, no need to rush. I’ll answer your questions one by one.
Alex, as usual, was surrounded by many people—as the hero who ended the Nation-Crushing War.
It was almost as if the earlier attack had never happened...
Harriet: That was rough, wasn’t it, MC?
MC: It wasn’t rough for me. It was Alex who had a hard time.
The words from the young man who attacked Alex…
The story Alex told earlier at the grave, about his junior apprentice...
All these thoughts filled my heart and made it hard to breathe.
Harriet: Alex told me everything. But he didn’t punish the man who attacked him.
MC: ...He didn’t?
Harriet: Yeah and I thought the banquet would be canceled, but Alex wanted it to go on as planned. He's really admirable.
MC: Yeah...
Harriet: Ah, don’t look so gloomy! After all, your love is what Alex needs the most—ow!?
Alex: Hey now, Harriet. Don’t tease her too much.
Alex must have lightly hit Harriet, because he was rubbing the back of his head.
Harriet: I wasn’t teasing that badly... oh well★ Lovebirds should be together anyway. I’ll leave you two alone~
Smiling widely, Harriet walked away—leaving just Alex and me behind in silence.
Alex: ...I can tell what you’re feeling. I’ve lived long enough to understand these things. You’re so honest and sincere, it almost shines too brightly for me. But you don’t need to let your beautiful heart break because of me.
He smiled gently, and looked at me with kind, caring eyes.
Alex: I don’t know what Harriet was going to say, but... When you smile, it gives me strength. Harriet says a woman’s smile makes a man feel invincible.
MC: Alex...
His words were full of kindness.
Even though I knew he was trying to ease my worries, his warm smile still made me happy.
...
Soon, the banquet reached its peak.
As planned, the evening ended with a speech from Alex.
Alex: We are still in the middle of a battle. But that doesn’t mean we should despair. I promise that we will keep fighting—so that peace can truly come to the world. Let us not leave that hope as just a dream.
Cheers and loud applause filled the room as Alex finished his speech.
His eyes were strong and noble, looking far into the distance.
...
A little while after the banquet ended, I went to visit Alex in his room.
MC: Um... Alex. Thank you for your hard work today.
Alex: You came just to check on me, right? That’s very kind of you. But I’m fine. Didn’t I say before? A hero isn’t that fragile.
That same gentle smile is a smile that I had seen so many times.

But this time, I wanted to reach the feelings he was hiding behind it.
MC: Maybe the "Hero Alex" is fine. But... What I want to care for is you, the real Alex.
Alex: ......
Alex: ...Honestly, I can’t win against you. If I said it doesn’t hurt... that would be a lie. But I’m not allowed to complain, am I? I’m a hero, after all.
MC: ......
Even though I looked straight at him, his mask stood between us like a wall.
(I want to face the real Alex—without his mask. And... I want to tell him what’s in my heart.)
Driven by that feeling, I slowly reached for his mask.
It felt cold against my fingers, but I gently slid it off.
Behind it, ruby-red eyes opened wide, reflecting me in their gaze.
Alex: ...MC?
MC: I’m sorry I acted on my own. But I wanted to face you directly. I respect your strength and determination. But I also want to protect you. I may be a Guild Keeper, but I’m also one of the Chevaliers.
I saw myself in his eyes—and I’m sure he saw himself in mine.
The real Alex, without the mask of a hero.
Alex: ...You’re surprisingly bold.
MC: S-sorry!
Alex: No, it’s alright. I’m surprised too... but for some reason, I feel at peace when you do it. I never thought I’d let anyone take off my mask.
MC: Alex...
Alex: Can I... hear more? The words you want to say—not to the hero, but to me?
MC: ...Yes. If it’ll help lighten your burden, even just a little. Please tell me your true feelings. Just like that night—let this be our secret.
I spoke quietly. Alex gave a small, warm smile.
Alex: To make you say so much... I’m really pathetic. And yet—I can’t stop the happiness I feel.
MC: ...!
Alex: Just for tonight... let me lean on your kindness. Forgive me if I whisper something embarrassing to you.
MC: I’ll listen as much as you need.
Alex: ...Thank you.
Quietly, secretly... The night for just the two of us went on.
Outside the window, the sky full of stars twinkled like they were whispering to each other.