Part of what makes the Marvel Universe so interesting is how no matter the type of fan, there’s a genre for them to explore. Whether it be fantasy or space, there’s a story that fits the desire every time. For example, espionage is one of the most unsung genres of the universe. Aside from the occasional Captain America or Nick Fury series, the world of spies and secrets hasn’t been a large priority compared to vigilantes and the supernatural. But it’s one that has translated best to other forms of media.
Thanks in no small part to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Black Widow and the Winter Soldier have become household names. Plus, their appearances on film and television have translated well as they’ve called back to a classic era of film and television tied to names like James Bond and Ethan Hunt. Video games have been another avenue where these characters have shined as well. Most recently, Marvel’s Avengers has been a great example of this and with the Winter Soldier confirmed as a playable character, it brings back another aspect of his shadowy life.
Winter Soldier And Black Widow Share A Dangerous Romance
Bucky Barnes and Natasha Romanoff first met in the Red Room. As she trained in espionage, he was her combat instructor as revealed in Captain America and Bucky #624 (by Ed Brubaker, Marc Andreyko, and Chris Samnee). It was hrough their training, they developed feelings for one another. At that time, Natasha’s love for Bucky was strong and genuine but was sadly never allowed. As a result, Bucky was considered unsuitable for his job and placed on ice, only awakened to perform assassinations. This was how his life remained for decades until Steve Rogers broke him free of his programming.
At the point of Bucky’s return, Natasha had also established herself as a hero and ally to many heroes, including Captain America. As a result, it was only a matter of time before the two would reunite. Even though Natasha had had many loves in the past, she still had a soft spot for Bucky, and, as a result, the two tried again to be an item. However, this was yet another chance that would ultimately fail to reach a happy ending. To make matters worse, a certain event would leave their relationship in question for the foreseeable future.
What Happened To Black Widow and Winter Soldier’s Relationship?
In Black Widow #10 (by Mark Waid and Chris Samnee), the two were left for dead on the moon, losing oxygen fast. Hoping to repay the many times he’d saved her, Natasha gave Bucky what was left of her oxygen. It was believed for a moment that Natasha had died as a result, but Bucky managed to revive her. But the time without oxygen affected her mind to the point where it seemed as though she may not have even remembered Bucky and their time together. From that point forward, the two have always remained amicable, and their love for one another was never left unstated. However, their missions in life had often pushed them in different directions, and they’ve grown content, knowing that eventually, the road would lead them to meet again.
Marvel’s Avengers is the perfect opportunity to give fans another chance to see if Nat and Bucky could make things work. If so, it could also give hope to comic fans that the two may find each other again as well. But for now, with how their lives have gone, they have a larger mission that requires immediate attention. But like every storm, it will have to end eventually, and hopefully, in that time, Marvel’s best spies may find themselves in each other’s arms again.
