( that makes ivan grin, because he can just imagine. his knowledge of earth history falls apart when it comes to the specifics even after spending months there, but surely human nature hasn't changed all that much. although he's pretty sure the native americas didn't win out against their "civilized" invaders. they just must have not had their version of piotr pierre vorkosigan. )

If they bothered to pay attention to everything that happened in the Time of Isolation they probably wouldn't have tried. Nice to know that civilization is used as an excuse even in the past. And sure, we've got our share of backcountry hicks and all that, but uncivilized is a stretch, when they're barely human. ( ah, cetagandans. but he perks up slightly. ) You mentioned your cousin before. What's he like, and do you want to trade?

( please. please trade him. )