Copyright� 2007 by Quantum Mechanic
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Author's Note -
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When I began writing Redemption, I originally called it Undine, and I thought it would be a one-off story. It was actually a challenge given me by my SO.
"Write a story about a boat," she said.
The problem is: stories are about people, not boats... aren't they? So in my attempt to meet the challenge, I wrote a story about a man on a boat. Funny thing is, although the story is mostly about the man, his name is never mentioned. The boat on the other hand is Undine, and she is called by name several times.
After finishing and posting Redemption, it became clear that Undine was destined for further adventures, thus the name change. Ever notice how these things take on a life of their own?
"So," you might ask, "Why do you call it science fiction? Looks more like fantasy to me..."
Well, while an undine is a magical aquatic creature in folklore, the Undine stories do not deal in magic or magical creatures. The stories posit the existence of an undiscovered race of migratory, aquatic humanoids. Given the title of this collection, it would be tempting to assume that these humanoids were magical creatures, however, Undine is just the name of the boat.
Please observe that aquatic humanoids would doubtless have environmental needs differing from those of the more familiar, terrestrial type of humanoid. To the extent that they are driven by the environment, they would also likely have differing customs and habits. This is a scientific inference. The existence of such creatures may be unlikely, but it is certainly allowable within the framework of known natural laws, therefore the premise is fiction, rather than fantasy.
Well, enough history and philosophy. The Undine stories are connected on various levels, but each one is a complete story in its own right. The list is short now, but will likely grow at its own pace. I have no specific production timetable for future additions.
I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoyed writing them.
Undine was not a new boat. In fact, she had been decades old when, through neglect, she had sunk into a watery grave. Like her namesake, she rose from the water to participate in the lives of mere mortals. Unlike her however, she wasn't jealous, requiring only that her consort pay adequate attention to her needs. In return, she provided safety and comfort, and often, healing.
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Redemption
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An aging waterman has lost his wife, and along with her, his purpose in living. In his isolation he is discovered, and taught to live again.
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Reconciliation
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Undine passes to a new owner, one with a dysfunctional family. A long summer voyage leads to rediscovery of familial love, as well as the love between a man and a woman.