Journal Entry: September 30th, 2023, 2 a.m.

This is the 34th entry of my journal, and as I put the pen to the paper tonight, I am filled with mixed emotions. Today, I returned from my first ever contract experience as a mercenary, and it turned out to be far more nerve-racking than I had anticipated.

As I stepped foot into the village and heard the familiar voices and saw the welcoming faces of the other villagers, a wave of relief washed over me. It may have only been a few hours since I left, but it felt like I had been away for months. Even though there wasn't much trouble during my absence, the unknown and suspense of my first magical mercenary job had me on edge.

Now that I am back and settled in, I plan to resume my usual routine of helping out as much as I can around my village. Doing tasks such as chopping wood, building small temporary huts, and dealing with the village's finances. These responsibilities may seem mundane to some, but to me, they are a crucial part of ensuring the well-being of the community I call home and the inhabitants I consider family.

I have come to appreciate the simplicity of life in this village. The unity and sense of belonging I feel when I am here surpass any thrill or adventure I may have sought out during my contract. It is my duty and privilege to provide for this village, and I wholeheartedly embrace it.

As I sit here, writing this journal entry, I am filled with nothing but gratitude. I am grateful that I was able to return home safely, grateful that I can continue to contribute and improve this struggling village, and grateful for the trust and support of the villagers I have the honor to provide for. Tomorrow is a new day, and with it come new opportunities to improve our cherished community.

Despite the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead, I am ready to face them head-on. This village is my home, and these people are my family. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

Journal Entry: October 15th, 2023, Midnight

As I watched the others leave and board their planes, heading back to the comfort of their homes and the warmth of their families, my heart weighed heavy with a mix of emotions. Amidst the bittersweet farewell to the others, my gaze shifted downward, fixing on the lifeless body of the doctor. It was the very same man who once saved me from the brink of death—the man who extended a lifeline that allowed me to see another day and return to my village.

Empathy flooded my being as I thought about the unfortunate fate that had befallen the doctor. This mission, his first ever contract, proved to be his last. While my comrades and I were fortunate enough to make it back to our loved ones, his journey came to a premature end, leaving behind unfulfilled dreams and a family waiting anxiously for his safe return.

With a heavy heart, I took it upon myself to handle the necessary arrangements for the doctor. Sitting down to fill out his paperwork, my hands trembled as I meticulously ensured that he would be buried in a place that his family would approve of, a final resting place that he may have envisioned for himself. Though I barely knew him beyond our shared mission, I couldn't escape the overwhelming sense of gratitude that washed over me. After all, it was he who had selflessly saved my life, and now it was my duty to honor his memory.

The doctor's untimely demise served as a powerful reminder and a piercing wake-up call for us as new contractors. It urged us to always remain cautious and aware of the risks that accompany every mission. In the midst of chaos and danger, we must never lose sight of what awaits us at home. For me, my heart lies with my struggling village, the place I proudly call home, and the resilient inhabitants that I fondly refer to as family.

Reflecting on this somber moment, I find solace in the recognition that life is a fragile gift, one that should never be taken for granted. The doctor's sacrifice, though tragic, has reminded me of the invaluable importance of the bonds we forge outside the battlefield. It is these connections that give purpose and depth to our existence, grounding us in the love and support that await our return.

As I prepare myself for the journey back home, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude, knowing that I am one of the fortunate few who can still embrace my loved ones and my village with open arms. The lessons learned from the doctor's untimely departure will forever be etched in my heart, empowering me to approach future missions with caution and the knowledge that, through it all, the love and stability of home will forever be my guiding light.