[he makes a soft sound, understanding. He's done his part for the planet. Already played its hero and he's glad it's over. Sephiroth is dead, Meteor is gone, the planet can get back to healing. He doesn't want to be a hero and he doesn't need the planet's attention. He'll be happy to grow old next to Tifa and die when it's time.

Or die before his time in a fight or accident...

The fingers of his left hand flex, trying to shake feeling back into them and he shakes his head the smallest bit.]

Defenders have a way of showing up. There's always a next generation of heroes waiting to have the chance.

[and boy did he feel sorry for them]

Wasn't there someone before you?