Zechs Merquise is a character that appears in the TV anime Mobile Suit Gundam Wing. A personal friend of OZ leader Treize Khushrenada, Zechs was often the commander of important missions, and received his orders directly from Treize. His real name is actually Milliardo Peacecraft the heir to the Sanc Kingdom throne, a country known for its commitment to pacifism. After the destruction of his homeland by UESA forces, he donned his iconic mask and left behind the name Peacecraft for his new moniker, Zechs Merquise.
Full of pride and self-loathing, living the life of a soldier has brought great internal conflict to Zechs. Despite his reputation as a great mobile pilot, Zechs feels that he has betrayed himself and his father's ideals. As a result of his many battles, he believes that he is not worthy to his family name, as his life as a soldier contradicts his father's pacifistic ideals. This is shown when Treize referred to him as "Milliardo Peacecraft" his real name to which Zechs responded to with great shame. He is often seen struggling between chivalry and the professionalism of a modern soldier who carries out destruction and killing in a rational and efficient manner.