The word "permission" can be stated as a verb. AT: "the captain permitted Paul to speak" or "the captain allowed Paul to speak" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
# Paul stood on the steps
The word "steps" here refers to the steps on the stairway to the fortress.
It can be stated explicitly why Paul motioned with the hand. AT: "motioned with his hand for the people to be quiet" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])