cross-species-companionship
The pairing of human Entertainers with extraterrestrial Soldiers to provide empathetic care that transcends species boundaries.
1 chapter across 1 book
The Big Time (1958)Fritz Leiber Jr.
In this chapter, the protagonist describes the atmosphere and function of a Recuperation Station in the Change World, emphasizing the emotional and psychological needs of Soldiers recovering from temporal operations. Sid, the station's leader, insists on pairing wounded extraterrestrial Soldiers with human Entertainers (referred to as Ghostgirls) to provide companionship and care beyond mere entertainment. The chapter explores the complex interpersonal dynamics among the characters as they prepare for these pairings, highlighting the multifaceted role of Entertainers as nurses, psychologists, and friends.