The sunrise bathed the city in golden light as Toshinori adjusted his scarf around his neck. His steps were calm, almost uncertain, as he walked down the still deserted street. Without his suit, without his bright smile, without the title of “Symbol of Peace,” he was just a tall, thin man with his hands hidden in his pockets to protect himself from the cold.

He stopped in front of a small shop that was just opening. The owner, an elderly man, looked up and smiled. “Good morning, Yagi. The usual?”

“Of course,” Toshinori replied in a soft voice.

As he waited, he looked at the reflection of the street in the shop window. Old cars, worn-out buildings, and people who, little by little, were beginning to go about their day without fear. That was enough to make him smile, even though his muscles reminded him that every day he had less time to maintain that calm.

He left with a cup of hot coffee in his hands. He walked slowly, observing the rooftops and alleys with an eye trained to detect problems, even though there were none. He couldn't help it; it was part of him.

Passing by a park, he stopped for a few seconds to watch some children playing. None of them recognized him in his current state, and that, in a way, was a relief.

“Maybe it's better this way...” he muttered to himself before continuing on his way.

It didn't matter how much time he had left as a hero. As long as people could smile without fear, he would keep going. Even if it was in silence.