One key element is the clash of their personalities. Sherlock is highly logical and methodical, while Lupin is more of a charming trickster. Their different ways of approaching problems make for interesting interactions. Another element is the mystery aspect. Usually, they are involved in solving some complex cases together. And of course, their relationship development, whether it's from being rivals to allies or something more complex.
One great 'Sherlock x Lupin' fanfic is 'The Meeting of Minds'. It beautifully weaves the deductive skills of Sherlock with the cunning nature of Lupin. Another interesting one could be 'Sherlock and Lupin: Unlikely Allies' which shows their unique relationship development. There's also 'In the Shadows of Baker Street' where their adventures together are quite thrilling.
A plot could involve a case where a series of seemingly impossible crimes are being committed. Arsene Lupin is suspected by the police, but he claims innocence and enlists the help of Sherlock Holmes to clear his name. Along the way, they discover that there is a much larger conspiracy at play that threatens the whole city.
Holmes' attention to detail and methodical thinking can seem rigid compared to Lupin's more fluid and spontaneous nature. However, Lupin could learn from Holmes' discipline, and Holmes could be inspired by Lupin's creativity. For example, in a fanfic, when investigating a crime scene in a grand mansion, Holmes would analyze every speck of dust, while Lupin might notice the strange behavior of the servants more quickly. Together, they would cover all aspects of the mystery.
One great science fiction book on io9 could be 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. It has a complex and immersive world-building, with political intrigue and a unique desert planet setting. Another could be 'Neuromancer' by William Gibson which is a classic cyberpunk novel that really set the tone for the genre. And 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' by Douglas Adams is also likely to be on there. It's a hilarious and imaginative take on space travel and the universe at large.
In Greek mythology, Prometheus was a figure of great significance. He was chained to a rock as punishment for stealing fire for humans. Io was a beautiful nymph who caught Zeus' eye. Zeus transformed her into a cow to protect her from Hera, but Hera was not easily fooled and sent a gadfly to torment Io. The connection between Prometheus and Io could be related to the overarching theme of the gods' power and the suffering they inflict on mortals. Prometheus' actions were about the elevation of humanity, while Io's story was about the arbitrary and often cruel power of the gods over the lives of those they desired or saw as threats. It's possible that their stories were both examples of how the gods' actions had far - reaching consequences for those involved, whether they were trying to help humanity like Prometheus or were simply victims of the gods' whims like Io.
You could have Io start out as being very distrustful of Percy and the demigods. She has been through so much with the gods chasing her that she is wary of any new beings. But as she spends time with Percy and sees his good heart and his determination to help her, she begins to open up. By the end of the fanfiction, she has fully embraced the idea of being part of the demigod world and is ready to fight for its safety, which is a significant transformation for her character.
A book that might be featured is 'A Canticle for Leibowitz' by Walter M. Miller Jr. It's set in a post - apocalyptic world where the Catholic Church preserves knowledge. Another could be 'The Left Hand of Darkness' by Ursula K. Le Guin, which explores gender and society in a unique way. And 'Ringworld' by Larry Niven is also a possibility. It has a fascinating concept of a huge, artificial ring - shaped world.
A book like 'Neuromancer' by William Gibson might be on the list. It's a cyberpunk classic that really helped define the genre. It has a lot of concepts related to virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and a gritty, high - tech future. Also, 'Slaughterhouse - Five' by Kurt Vonnegut could be considered, as it has elements of time travel and an exploration of the absurdity of war in a science - fictional context.
I would also suggest 'Snow Crash' by Neal Stephenson. It's set in a future where the Metaverse exists. 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' by Douglas Adams is a very humorous and creative take on science fiction, with its absurd situations and unique characters. 'Starship Troopers' by Robert A. Heinlein is a controversial yet thought - provoking book about military and citizenship in a future society.