Nick Burkhardt and Adalind Schade’s relationship in NBC’s Grimm is one of the most complex and compelling storylines of the entire series. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of their intricate journey, culminating in their eventual romantic connection. They officially get together in Season 5, Episode 12, “Into the Schwarzwald.”
A Twisted Beginning: Understanding the Origins of Nick and Adalind’s Connection
The initial dynamic between Nick and Adalind was purely adversarial. Adalind, a powerful Hexenbiest, consistently posed threats to Nick, Juliette, and the entire Grimm world. Her actions, including cursing Juliette to steal Nick’s Grimm abilities and attempting to kill Aunt Marie, painted her as a formidable and irredeemable villain. However, the series cleverly deconstructed this perception, revealing layers of vulnerability and manipulation beneath Adalind’s cunning exterior.
From Adversaries to Unlikely Allies
The turning point in their relationship arises from the unforeseen consequences of Adalind’s actions. After losing her Hexenbiest powers, she finds herself pregnant with Nick’s child as a result of a coerced encounter orchestrated by Renard’s mother, Elizabeth. This shared responsibility for their child, Diana, forces them into an uneasy alliance. They begin to navigate the complexities of co-parenting, slowly developing a begrudging respect for one another. This marked the beginning of a long and winding road toward genuine affection.
The Seeds of Romance: Nurturing a Fragile Connection
As they work together to protect Diana from various threats, including the Royals and Black Claw, Nick and Adalind begin to see each other in a new light. They witness each other’s vulnerabilities, strengths, and dedication to their daughter. This shared experience creates a bond that transcends their past animosity. Adalind’s vulnerability after losing her powers and the strength she exhibits in protecting Diana humanize her in Nick’s eyes. Similarly, Nick’s unwavering protection of Diana and his willingness to trust Adalind, despite her past transgressions, allows her to see the good in him.
“Into the Schwarzwald”: The Turning Point
The episode “Into the Schwarzwald” is pivotal. While searching for a way to protect Diana, Nick and Adalind venture into the mysterious Schwarzwald (Black Forest). Facing life-threatening situations together, their shared experiences force them to rely on each other completely. During this time, Adalind regains her Hexenbiest powers, further complicating their dynamic. However, it also underscores their shared destiny and strengthens their connection. Back in Portland, as their newfound sense of mutual respect and love blossoms, they finally come together romantically, solidifying their relationship in a physical and emotional commitment. This episode is a watershed moment, signifying the official start of their romantic relationship.
Facing the Future: Challenges and Growth
Their relationship wasn’t without its challenges. Juliette’s death, caused by Nick’s struggles with his Grimm identity, cast a long shadow over their budding romance. Furthermore, the ongoing threats from Wesen and the Royals constantly tested their bond. However, Nick and Adalind persevered. They faced these challenges together, solidifying their commitment to each other and to their family. Their shared experiences, both painful and joyous, strengthened their love and transformed them into a formidable team.
FAQs: Unpacking the Nick and Adalind Saga
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide even greater clarity on Nick and Adalind’s complex relationship:
H3: When does Adalind first become pregnant with Nick’s child?
Adalind becomes pregnant with Nick’s child in Season 4, Episode 1, “Thanks for the Memories.” This event is a direct consequence of the potion concocted by Elizabeth Renard in the previous season to strip Nick of his Grimm abilities by forcing him to sleep with Adalind.
H3: What role does Diana play in Nick and Adalind’s relationship?
Diana, their daughter, serves as the initial catalyst and the constant foundation of their evolving relationship. Her unique powers and the threats she faces force Nick and Adalind to cooperate and ultimately develop a deep bond. Her safety and well-being remain their top priority throughout the series.
H3: Why is Adalind initially seen as a villain?
Adalind is initially portrayed as a villain due to her allegiance to the Royals and her willingness to use her Hexenbiest powers to harm Nick and his allies. Her actions, driven by ambition and a desire for power, position her as a formidable adversary.
H3: How does Adalind lose her Hexenbiest powers?
Adalind loses her Hexenbiest powers in Season 3 when she drinks a potion to save Rosalee from a deadly curse. The potion comes at the cost of her Wesen nature.
H3: How does Adalind regain her Hexenbiest powers?
Adalind regains her Hexenbiest powers in Season 5, Episode 12, “Into the Schwarzwald,” during their quest to find a way to protect Diana. This return of her powers further complicates, but ultimately strengthens, her bond with Nick.
H3: What impact does Juliette’s death have on Nick and Adalind’s relationship?
Juliette’s death, while tragic, inadvertently opens the door for Nick and Adalind to explore their feelings for each other. Juliette’s transformation into Eve and her subsequent actions strained her relationship with Nick to the breaking point.
H3: Is there any evidence of Nick having romantic feelings for Adalind before “Into the Schwarzwald”?
Subtle hints of Nick’s growing affection for Adalind appear earlier in Season 5, particularly in their interactions while co-parenting Diana. He shows concern for her safety and well-being, demonstrating a developing emotional connection beyond simple co-parenting.
H3: What are some of the major challenges they face as a couple?
Nick and Adalind face numerous challenges including: The constant threat from Wesen and the Royals, dealing with Diana’s unique and powerful abilities, and navigating the complexities of their past animosity and the residual impact of Juliette’s death.
H3: How do Nick’s friends (Monroe, Rosalee, Hank) react to his relationship with Adalind?
Initially, Nick’s friends are skeptical and wary of his relationship with Adalind, given her past actions. However, they eventually accept her, recognizing her genuine love for Nick and her commitment to protecting Diana.
H3: Do Nick and Adalind ever get married?
Yes, Nick and Adalind get married in Season 6, Episode 13, “The End,” the series finale. Their marriage symbolizes their unwavering commitment to each other and their family.
H3: Does Adalind ever use her Hexenbiest powers to help Nick?
Yes, Adalind frequently uses her Hexenbiest powers to assist Nick in his Grimm duties, becoming a valuable asset in fighting Wesen and protecting Portland.
H3: What is the overall significance of Nick and Adalind’s relationship in the Grimm narrative?
Nick and Adalind’s relationship represents a recurring theme of redemption and the transformative power of love. It highlights the idea that even the most unlikely individuals can find common ground and build a strong, loving family. Their journey provides a compelling and unexpected arc within the larger Grimm universe, showing that enemies can become lovers and that the lines between good and evil are often blurred.