Pakhtunkhwa, July 1863
Tazhak stood on a prominent rise within the confines of the Valley of Kot. Protected by a ten-foot-high earthen wall, there was a tall arched gate for entry, with two sturdy watchmen on guard. A stone tower nailed down each corner of the village, manned by armed warriors in skull caps. Under a low, leaden sky, the village looked uncompromisingly hostile. Every so often the distinctive c***k of a rifle sounded from within the walls.
"They evidently don"t want strangers to enter unseen," Jack said.
"The Yasufzai take care of their own." There was pride in Hassan"s voice. "Are we not the sons of Joseph?"
Jack reined up on a ridge overlooking the valley. "We"ll wait here a bit," he said. "I want to see how many people enter and leave Tazhak."
There was a steady stre
