Some habits are hard to break, they say (bad ones, usually).
Even though it is not clear in the story what kinds of missions this soldier accomplished, or what kind of masters he served, the resistance to quit a long-lived routine or trade is known to anyone who has done the same thing for a couple of decades, at least.
Soldiers, though, represent a different thing and it is interesting (to put it nicely) how human beings can get used and even crave for danger and death (even if shielded behind a veneer of honor and courage).
The story does a great job at presenting the soldiers commitment as unproblematic and dignifying (at least so far--I understand the story will continue)
That is one great observation. Every word is true. Sure, it will be more parts, as I sad before. Come back again, for more reading. Thank you.