As they say in these new territories, the sun rises from the mountains--eventually. Since the sun must climb several thousand feet before it cascades down to the Wellspring, daylight is a little delayed at this latitude. The Peaks are abrupt and jagged, with deep valleys generously decorated with trees that serve as a shelter for wildlife. Nestled in the nooks between the mountains are a variety of small birds, hearty goats, and the occasional big cat. It's hard to fear the heights when they look down on all the beauty of the region below, and it's well worth the trek through the Shroud to savor the view.