Year of the Boar, Seventh Month, Day 27.

I cannot sleep. I had been sleeping somewhat better of late; I had started to feel as though even if I were not safe, there were those here who would protect me. Now, each time I close my eyes and try to sleep, I see the spray of Itsuki's blood as the Guard severed her head and the sightless glaze over her eyes as her head rolled stone-like on the matting before me. Even from the grave, she mocks me. I allowed myself to recall some of the things she did and I felt anger bubble up inside me until I could barely breathe. Naturally, I have forbidden any kind of funeral and there will be no Diplomat's burial for her. I hope that the wolves devour even her bones... She knew what Shigeru was doing and she could have stopped him... she could could have told me that Hishinuma was dead and she did not... My hate for has increased ten-fold since her execution and I do not know why I am allowing myself to dwell upon her any more... She is gone and unless she decides to haunt me, she will not be back.
I have decided to go to the Summer House. Nanami is behaving very strangely about it but will say nothing other than she is concerned about the House. I have discussed it with Atsuko which may be why Nanami is upset but in any case, a change of scenery may do me good. I have not felt capable of making such a decision in so long that the very fact I have made it makes me feel almost... good. I will take Nanami and Chiyo but Atsuko will stay here and keep the House running properly. A few maids and one of the under-chefs will accompany me; I do not intend to announce to the House that I am going. My sudden disappearance from the Hall at the evening meal may seen as odd but I do not suppose that any one will give much consideration to it; I have been absent for so long as it is...