His destination was west of the fork in Kyskh. It took five days through inhospitable conditions. The darkest days were upon them, with days spent nearly in pitch black. Several snowstorms struck the region day after day. More time was spent each day collecting firewood so he wouldn't freeze in the snow each night. While he only needed to meditate for a couple hours, the dogs would sleep for nine or ten hours. They would shiver at each rest stop, and he knew they needed lots of care.