Evening. I had come across the waterwheel hut some time ago; it seemed to be abandoned, but was remarkably clean. I thanked the gods for my fortune; it appears I had found an eel's bed. It would be so nice to sleep on a futon again!

As much as I enjoyed the bustling of villages and the company of others, being out in the majesty of nature always felt right to me. The peace reminded me of home, when I was with Father. Not only that, but the bamboo forest I was in smelled great, and I would not hurt for food here. I even had a good view of the full moon tonight! Maybe I would rest here for a few days before continuing my travels.

I heard a crack from the underbrush close by, and stiffened; perhaps I had not been as fortunate as I thought. Thoughts raced in my mind, but I stilled it before it could spiral out of control. If my encounter led to combat, disquiet would only bring ruin.

"Father… watch over me," I whispered, as I slid open the shoji. I stepped into the evening air, Kodama in hand, and waited until they came into view. It would be best to meet them head-on; if the situation grows stormy, I would rather be on the god of the side that hears thunder.