“Salaam aleikum.”
A deep voice echoed from the door.
Dan, in front, squinted into the dim room beyond, just able to make out a colossal white shape moving towards them, hovering, not quite emerging into daylight.
“Welcome, welcome to Landi Kotal. My name is Mr. Khan, welcome.”
Mr. Khan was a huge Pathan, dressed in a spotless white Shalwar Kameez and perfectly polished sandals. His deeply lined, hard face was softened by a full white beard and the huge belly that stretched his spotless shirt afforded him a weird uncle vibe. To his side, two pale-faced boys stood with Kalashnikovs, barrels pointing towards the ground.
Dan could hear Fred swallow hard behind him, as they nodded greetings all around.
Mr. Khan beckoned. Breaking into a wide smile, his face was open and welcoming. His eye
