v.151 - Rising Heroes: Echoes of Darkness Update Notes

Well, the point is that despite the fact that no one will ever remember him (though, there are hints that people might remember him eventually), he'll still fight against the Black Mage because it's the right thing to do. He's a hero; he's not doing it for glory or recognition, he does it because it's the right thing. That's good enough for him. It's pretty cliche, but it totally works for me.

Also, I believe it shows some character growth, but the only indication you have of what Shade used to be like is a throwaway line during his quest to communicate with Freud which implies that he was suicidal before he joined with the other heroes, and now he's choosing to live on rather than give up.

Your explanation gave me a clearer perception on the story... and I like it a bit more. Thanks for that!