badmashes loosewallahs Jack saw the logic. “You are right. Who are you, Armaghan and why are you helping me?”
“Melmastia,” Armaghan said. “And reciprocation.”
Melmastia,Jack was pulling off his uniform, wincing at the renewed pain in his head. “Reciprocation? Is that part of the Pashtun culture as well?”
“No. Western philosophy.” Armaghan grinned. “Did you think we are cut off from the outside world? I am a merchant, Major Windrush. I have to know how my customers think, whoever they are.” He stepped closer and looked Jack directly in the eye. “I want you to make me a promise, Major Windrush.”
“What’s that, Armaghan?”
“Will you promise to abide by the Pashtun code of melmastia, Major, and offer hospitality to somebody, the next person who asks, whoever they are?”
melmastia,Jack wonde
