The first things anyone ever learns about the Durants are the importance and regard with which they hold both family and knowledge. If she really wanted to confuse Hughes, she'd mix up three of her known languages. She's done it before and Viatorus can understand. He hates it though, complaining that it makes grammar impossible.

She hesitates, considering the deal before her, but then nods and takes his hand in a firm grip to shake it. "I hope this deal works out for both of us, Lt. Colonel."