"It's a term in common usage here," he replies carefully. If this is actually from an earlier point of his universe's timeline. The specifics are blurry until he can get real details on what in the hell has happened here.

At the mention of Earth his eyes light up with understanding and he nods. "Ah. I've visited Earth. It's primarily a hub for embassies of the various empires and planets as a cultural courtesy." Being the 'homeworld' to all of humanity gave it special interest.

"There's no united government there."