On Cain, there are two intelligent species of the same genus. The more numerous Lugals are completely loyal and trustworthy subordinates of the Yildivans who live as independent families in forest huts or caves with no tribes, nations or communities. However, the Lugals, whom the Yildivans breed and trade, carry messages, goods and news and frequently gather to converse independently. More intelligent Lugals boss their own species, teach the Yildivan young and are sometimes consulted by their owners. Thus, wider social interaction is through the Lugals. Further, the Yildivans in at least one area communicate long-range with drums. Thus, their apparent isolation is merely apparent.
3 comments:
Kaor, Paul!
Yes, but what would the Yildivans DO if their Lugals disappeared, for one reason or another? I think they would have no choice but to learn how to cooperate in larger, permanent groups or even to take orders from leaders.
What we see on Cain is, in some ways, horrifying! One intelligent had been so long enslaved by another species that the Lugals had become naturally, voluntarily domesticated.
And how would Yildivans interact with other intelligent races not at all like them? They would have to learn that other races are not "Lugals" who had gone "mad" and attacked different kinds of "Yildivans."
I've even thought of comparing the Yildivans to Stirling's dominant Homo drakensis, ruling the genetically engineered and domesticated Homo servus in DRAKON.
Ad astra! Sean
I think the Yldivans are not capable of that degree of gregariousness; without their Lugals, they could scarcely function as intelligent beings at all. The characters in the story notice a simplicity, a lack of nuance, in their personalities.
Kaor, Mr. Stirling!
Apologies for missing this comment by you, up till now. Yes, if the Yildivans are as dependent on their Lugals as you suggested, they would have great difficulty functioning as intelligent beings. Yes, I recall mention of the Yildivans being noted as curiously limited and narrow.
Ad astra! Sean
Post a Comment