This saga of historical science fiction begins with the arrival of space explorers (Seerier, pronounced see'ray) 1.9 million years ago in the time period frequently referred to as the Pleistocene. Its 19th century principle characters are immigrants from Acadia who have inherited a quarter section of Louisiana land, and the slaves they bought at auction. The mystery is in the blending of that unlikely mix and the profound effect it was to have on their lengthy future.