The Tigris River, one of the twin lifelines of Babylonia, flows northeast of Babylon from its origin, high in the far-off mountains. Its banks are lined with lush vegetation, where palm trees and reeds sway gently in the arid breeze. The water itself is clear and swift, reflecting the vast sky above. Along its course, the river carves through fertile plains, nurturing the fields that sustain the land. Boats laden with goods can often be seen travelling along it, though the river flows so fast that travelling upstream is almost impossible.