Year of the Boar, Twelfth Month, Day 8.

 We have stopped for respite since it is clear that the horse is tired. We have made good time as Tokiko said we would and I am glad to note that the map has been invaluable. What I did not have time to record when I last made an entry was that these ancient ways of which she spoke are in fact, marked by small piles of stones. There is a certain stone in each pile which is marked in a particular way so that travellers know in which direction they should go to reach the next pile. Apparently, these routes are long established; those who are familiar with the ancient ways do not really need them but they remain nonetheless. What I have not been able to establish is whether someone takes care of the stones... how do they stay as they are...? How are the markings not worn away by weather or animals or simply someone who wishes to make mischief...? Perhaps I can find out when I reach Purple Lightning; the library there is extensive...

Once we were clear of anything even remotely resembling an inhabited area, Haru and I had a long talk about what is to happen once we reach the House. I was right to suspect that she is having second thoughts about her involvement in my network and since she has no ties to Pale Twilight or to me, personally, there is no deep loyalty to make her stay with me. I understand this but I do not like it. I have, of course, no choice but to let her go and to be understanding about it, at least to her face because if I do not, the consequences could be dire.

We have agreed that she will continue to help me at least until I reach Purple Lightning. After that, I will continue to pay her for the rest of the year during which time, she will not need to act on my behalf although she has agreed that in the event of any news which may be catastrophic, she will make sure that I am kept informed... I am not at all pleased about this but if I want to ensure the integrity of my network, I do not see that I could have made another offer. 

I must end this and tidy my pages away before Haru wakes to take watch for a while so that I can snatch some sleep for a stick or two. I am hopeful that the House is no more than a day and a half away now but I suppose I should not tempt fate by noting such things...