Change of plans: 13

Arthur stood between the lines of benches listening to angry voices bouncing between the walls, desperately trying to catch the meaning of the quarrel. That he was playing a part was clear, even what part. Almost as quickly as the shouting had started it subsided and he turned to Harbend.

"I hereby make it clear for each and everyone that I will stand as sponsor for Harbend Garak. I also declare that this is of my own wish, and that I intend to pay the fee requested only because I personally want to do so; because it amuses me to play this prank on you." They had agreed upon the last part to make his declaration sound a little more personal.

He waited for Harbend's translation but none came.

What the hell now? No explanation from Harbend who only rigidly stared at the woman who'd started the row. Something was amiss, but what?

Arthur started sorting through the memories of their planning. Slowly he guessed the reason for the silence in the hall. Only a guess, but it had to do.

"House de Garak ... Harbend called welcome... Arthur Wallman, I... ," He faltered. "I trade standard unit... buy Harbend de Garak I wish and... wholly satisfied thereby," he continued remembering the phrase used when a deal was struck.

Damn, I can't run a good show without knowing the language. Simply doesn't work that way. Bloody awkward failing to master what I should do best.

He fell silent. The old man facing him grinned almost exploding with anger. No, not anger. He was laughing so hard he was shaking and Arthur had misunderstood it for wrath.