Introduction

In “North of Khyber,” an adventure beckons as characters hailing from New York find themselves entangled in the dangerous political dynamics of the Afghan border.

El Borak is mentioned but does not appear in the story. Never published in Howard’s lifetime.

The story, though unfinished, hints at the unfolding of a complex tale set against the backdrop of colonial politics, tribal alliances, and the personal histories of the characters.

Summary

The story opens with Steve Allison and his friend, Billy Buckner, in New York. Steve, a young man with a strong character and high intellect, is discontented with the idle rich life and yearns for excitement. News of trouble brewing along the Afghan border involving the Afridis captures his attention. The Afridis, instigated by a mullah’s preaching of a holy war, are threatening British India’s peace.

Steve and Billy decide to travel to India, drawn by the prospect of adventure and intrigued by the situation. Before leaving, Steve briefly visits his relatives to bid farewell, displaying his independent spirit and dismissive attitude towards their conventional concerns.

On their voyage aboard the Valencia, Steve and Billy encounter Moriarty, a persistent detective determined to bring Steve, an ex-road-agent, to justice. Despite a confrontation and Moriarty’s initial capture, an agreement is made; Moriarty will not interfere with their journey until they’ve completed their business in India.

Reaching Bombay, the two are entranced by the blend of Eastern and Western cultures. Steve’s inquiries with a government official reveal the gravity of the situation in Afghanistan. The Amir is losing influence, and a mullah is inciting revolt. Steve boldly secures passes for him and Billy to enter Afghanistan, under the guise of being U.S. ambassadors.

Their journey north is swift, and Steve’s connection to Yar Ali Khan, an Afridi he once knew, becomes a focal point when they reach Peshawur. They encounter Yar Hyder, whom Yar Ali had mentioned, and reveal the ring given by Yar Ali, symbolizing a bond and perhaps a promise of alliance.

Characters

  • Steve Allison – The main protagonist, a young man with wanderlust, looking for excitement and adventure beyond New York.
  • Billy Buckner – Steve’s friend and companion, joining him on his travels to India.
  • Moriarty – A dedicated detective, pursuing Steve for a past crime.
  • Government Official – A British government official in Delhi who provides information and passes to Steve.
  • Yar Ali Khan – An Afridi whom Steve had known and who gave him a ring that symbolizes friendship and possibly allegiance among certain tribes.
  • Yar Hyder – A chieftain of an Afghan clan who recognizes Yar Ali’s ring, indicating a significant connection to Steve and his past.

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