Rating: MC,
Set During: Season 1 Episode 11 “The Nagus”
Julian was sitting at the Replimate waiting for Garak to arrive. He’d finally managed to reschedule the previous lunch meeting that he’d cancelled. He’d only been sitting down for a few moments when he saw Garak moving briskly across the Promenade.
“I’m sorry I’m late.” Garak stopped behind the chair across from Julian. “Every Ferengi on the station has been to my shop today for repair and alterations. The presence of the Grand Nagus has them wanting to look their best.”
“Yes, I’ve noticed that Quark and Rom have been extremely nervous today.” Julian stood as well. “Shall we get in line?”
“I think so, or we won’t get our food until tomorrow.” Garak answered.
“Yes, with Quark’s closed the place is rather packed today.” Julian sighed. “I just don’t understand the effect the Nagus is having on the other Ferengi.”
“Really, Doctor? I would’ve thought that you of all the officers here on the station would understand.” Garak was puzzled.
“Why me?” Julian asked defensively.
“I meant no offense, Doctor. It’s just that you seem to be particularly interested in the values of other societies.” Garak gestured to himself. “Take me for example. You seem rather fascinated by my culture, or Lieutenant Commander Dax.”
“Well, Trill society is unique. And, you must admit that you’re rather an unusual case yourself.” Julian smirked slightly; the description was amusing and barely began to descried Garak. “Ferengi on the other hand are just… well base. They’re obsessed with latinum and that’s about all.”
“Really Doctor, I think you’re overlooking a rather complex and interesting society. Perhaps it’s because you’ve fallen victim to Federation shortsightedness?” Garak knew the challenge would appeal to the young man. “I guess you can’t expect Starfleet officers to be completely open-minded. You’ve been highly conditioned after all.”
“And, what’s that supposed to mean Garak?” Julian flushed slightly in irritation.
“Oh nothing really. Just that I’m betting that you’ve dismissed a culture based on nothing more than Federation hearsay, that you’ve never bothered to delve into the Ferengi way of life before making a judgment call.” Garak turned to the replicator. “Rokassa juice and hasperat. What would you like Doctor?”
“Tarkalean tea, double sweet, and a bowl of plomeek soup.” Julian retrieved the tray of food that materialized. “Okay, maybe I haven’t looked closely at Ferengi society, but what would I gain from doing so? They’re obsessed with acquiring things, and those skills are hardly needed in the Federation any more.”
“Ah, but your on the frontier.” They sat and began eating. “This is not Federation space, latinum is used regularly, and you have contact with Ferengi on a daily basis. Don’t you think knowing about their culture could be useful to you?”
Julian swallowed his bit of food. “Okay, I can see your point. Now that I’m here, knowing a little about the people I’m surrounded by would be useful. But, the question is, where do I begin?” Julia ate another bite of food. “It’s not like the Ferengi are prolific writers.”
“No, but they do have a written moral code that they follow strictly. It encompasses all aspects of their lives. I would suggest starting there. I did.” Garak smiled at the doctor knowingly.
Julian saw the smile and suspected that Garak was up to something. “I’ve never heard of this code.”
“I’m surprised Doctor. I thought everyone was aware of the famed Ferengi Rules of Acquisition.” Garak smirked.
“That’s not a code Garak. It’s a set of rules dealing with trade.” Julian argued.
“So, you’ve read them then.” Garak grinned his smug I’ve got you now smile.
“No.” Julian replied, knowing that Garak had intentionally cornered him.
“Then how can you know what they’re really about?” Garak ate another bit.
“Okay I’ll read the Rules of Acquisition, but only if you agree to read something that I pick for you.” Julian wanted to catch Garak in his own trap.
“I’d be delighted.” Garak’s plan had worked perfectly; he’d gained Julian’s interest. “I rather enjoyed the short story you recommend before. It was an interesting look into pre-warp humanity.”
Julian was stymied. He’d expect to score one against Garak. Somehow, he thought, he’d just done exactly what Garak wanted. It was a surprise to find that he was so completely challenged by a simple conversation with the man before him. It was refreshing.
“I’ll bring you a copy of Gaston Leroux’s The Phantom of the Opera. I think you’ll find it interesting.” Julian finished his last bit of food. “I need to get back to the infirmary, but I’ll drop the pad by your shop after my shift ends. If that’s alright?”
“That will be fine.” Garak stood as well. “I’m afraid I have to get back to my shop as well.”
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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment.
I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.
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