Tevun-Krus #25 - Romantic SF

Red Hot SciFi - An Article by @parishsp

Red hot scifi. It sounds like a misnomer, doesn't it? An oxymoron? Typically, when we think of science fiction, we think of awkward guys and gals locked away in their parents' dingy basements dorking out at some World of Warcraft while stuffing their faces with cheese puffs. Or dressed up like a Jedi at the park LARPing the Obi Wan-Vader scene in A New Hope.

Note: I just got off the couch after binge watching Netflix, catching up on Shadowhunters—which is terrible by the way—and stuffing my own face with chocolate chip cookies. No judgment here.

However, one of the biggest draws of scifi are the limitless bounds you have as an author and creator. You can honestly take your story anywhere, add any elements. Why? Because you make up the rules. You want aliens and planetary warfare? Sure! Robots for neighbors? Alright! Flying ships, bionic body parts, labs that blow up, change humanity, and release incurable diseases? I dare say, why not?

But romance?

It's not the first subgenre to come to mind. I can think of very few true science fiction works where the main plot of the story is the coming together of two individuals in a romantic fashion.

When you get to thinking, however, it doesn't take long to identify the great couples of science fiction. Although the official subgenre of a given work may be space opera or apocalyptical fiction, it's not surprising to find a romance tag somewhere in the mix. After all, it only makes sense that when thrown into a life-changing situation (the Empire is attacking, the world falling apart, your teacher is a machine... you know), that you form a bond with the other people who walk through it with you. They become your tribe. And where better to find that shell to your oyster than the teepee next to your own?

These relationships enrich the stories we already love. They take them to new heights, and leave us with a warm, tingly feeling in the center of our bellies.

In honor of all the great science fiction relationships out there, I have put together a list of the top science fiction couples of all time.

This is completely, solely based on my opinion. These are couples that I love. And I love a good love story (you've been warned).

5) Mary Jane & Peter Parker, Spiderman

Who doesn't love that the adorable Peter Parker not only falls for, but ultimately also ends up with, that nice Watson girl next door, Mary Jane? This relationship faced the ups and downs of unrequited affections as Peter watched MJ fall for his best friend, MJ's aloof-like attitude that stems from her abusive upbringing, to their eventual marriage in the comic—this relationship not only seems to have depth, but also a happy ending.

Who doesn't love a happy ending?

Go get 'em, Tiger.

4) Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark, The Hunger Games

Ok, before you start (or skip this one) The Hunger Games Trilogy is indeed science fiction. Stop your hating.

For me, Katniss and Peeta's relationship is about two people who constantly give for and to the other one. At first, we see this from Peeta, as he sits on the sidelines doing whatever he can to ensure Katniss is safe, even if this means putting his feelings aside. At the end of the series, you see this same sacrifice and patience from Katniss as she brings Peeta back from his Capital-induced trauma. I am a huge fan of the not-so-popular ending. Their love is the steadfast kind that ebbs and flows through life's challenges. That's someone you want at your side, and a relationship that's worth cheering about.

Confession: These next three were difficult to put in any semblance of an order for me.

3) Wash & Zoe, Firefly

What I love about Wash and Zoe. Man, where to start.

First of all, they seem completely comfortable with each other. Zoe doesn't mind that her husband is a genius-type dork who also happens to be an ace pilot. Wash loves his hunk of Amazonia-type woman and her warrior ways. There are no gender stereotypes here. Just a sincere acceptance of who the other is.

Secondly, these differences make them hysterical to watch. Or adorable. Whichever you choose. They are a couple that is easy to love.

Third, they take care of each other. Whether it's saving food for the other or literally getting the other's back in a fight, they are completely devoted to one another in their dorky, fascinating way.

Every time they are together, they are touching. They are sarcastic, witty, and just plain fun. There are no worries and complete trust between the two.

This whole article could be about Wash and Zoe. Go Netflix some Firefly, why don't you?

2) Chani & Paul from Dune

If there is ever any sort of list containing "best" and "science fiction", it only seems appropriate that Dune be on it somewhere.

And what Red Hot Love list is complete without the dutiless love between a man and his concubine that ends in tragedy?

It's your typical love story of the sort: Paul has a legitimate wife who puts the weight of the world on his shoulders and so he finds refuge in the arms of his beloved concubine, Chani. Their story is filled with intrigue, court deceptions, royal obligations, adventure, jealousy, daunting prophecies, and tragedy.

They love each other till the end. Literally.

1) Han Solo and Leia, Star Wars

Because I love you and I know perfectly sums up their sassy, adventurous romance. Even if their relationship seems to fizzle because of distance and history in The Force Awakens, I don't think it is enough to dim the sizzle of their interactions (and really any peek of romance) in the original Star Wars.

In a list of loves, Han and Leia win. They always win.

Admission: I tried really, really hard to stick to books. That list soon expanded to comics, only to end up including TV and movies as well. Who are your favorites? Who did I overlook? Feel free to share your thoughts as to my favorites in the comments below.