February 8th, 1879. Jack stood outside his hut outside Habibkila, the small village at the entrance to the Peiwar valley. General Roberts had sent the 113th to guard the surrounding area through the winter. After a few days, the men had settled in, mounting patrols, and enjoying the relative peace.
“This place is known as the sweetheart"s village,” Awalmir said softly.
“Why is that?” Jack asked.
“Have you not noticed?” Awalmir gave a slow smile. “The most beautiful women in the world live here.”
Jack had seen a few women in the village, but he could not tell whether they were beautiful or not as all wore the burka. “I am not looking for a woman, Awalmir.”
“No, Major,” Awalmir said. “You are not.” He smiled again.
“Oh,” Jack understood. “Do you have a woman here?”
“I will have by ton
