Year of the Boar, Eighth Month, Day 21.

I sent the bird back to Kouji before I set off yesterday. I did not have very much to tell him other than my location just in case he manages to inform any of the others in my network. I also thought it worth asking him for information on when the House might return to Dying Crane. I have half a mind to slip over the border into the Seventh Kingdom and journey back down to Purple Lightning rather than sit here in Dying Crane waiting.
 I have been walking west for a while and I am certain that it will not be long before I find a village since I have seen a number of people walking towards the House from the direction in which I am walking. Since the weather has remained clement, I have stopped for a short rest. I will not remain here long as I am anxious to find somewhere to stay; I have no desire to spend another night under the sky. I am reluctant to admit it but I am starting to feel afraid again. Once I have found an inn, I will re-evaluate my situation and hope that Kouji manages to send the bird back with information sooner rather than later.