Elijah and Hayley’s complicated and passionate relationship is a cornerstone of The Originals. While their connection sparks early, their first true intimate encounter, solidifying them as a couple, occurs in Season 2, Episode 18, “Night Has a Thousand Eyes.” This episode marks a significant turning point in their story, fueled by shared trauma and a desperate need for connection amidst the chaos of New Orleans.
The Road to Haylijah: A Complicated Connection
The path to Elijah and Hayley’s eventual union was anything but straightforward. From their initial alliance protecting Hope, to their growing respect and undeniable attraction, the journey was filled with obstacles, betrayals, and moments of heart-wrenching separation. Understanding the context leading up to “Night Has a Thousand Eyes” is crucial to appreciating the significance of their connection in that pivotal episode.
Early Attraction and Shared Responsibility
From the very beginning, Elijah and Hayley shared a strong bond, rooted in their shared responsibility for Hope’s safety. As Hayley carried Hope, Elijah served as her protector and confidant. Their connection transcended mere duty; an undeniable attraction simmered beneath the surface, fueled by their mutual respect and shared sense of purpose. However, their individual obligations and the complexities of the supernatural world consistently kept them apart.
Betrayal and Heartbreak
Their relationship was repeatedly tested by betrayal and heartbreak. Elijah’s unwavering loyalty to his family, particularly Klaus, often clashed with Hayley’s need to protect her own kind. These conflicts created deep rifts between them, forcing them to confront difficult choices and leaving their feelings unresolved. The constant threat of danger in New Orleans added another layer of complexity, making it difficult for them to fully embrace their emotions.
Finding Solace in Each Other’s Arms
Despite the obstacles, Elijah and Hayley found solace and comfort in each other’s arms during times of great stress and loss. These moments of vulnerability revealed the depth of their feelings and highlighted the profound connection they shared. They recognized in each other a kindred spirit, someone who understood the burdens they carried and the sacrifices they made.
“Night Has a Thousand Eyes”: A Turning Point
The episode “Night Has a Thousand Eyes” represents a culmination of their journey. Klaus’s actions, Dahlia’s looming threat, and the constant struggle for survival in New Orleans created an environment of desperation and heightened emotions. In this atmosphere, Elijah and Hayley finally succumbed to their feelings, marking a significant shift in their relationship.
The Power of Vulnerability
The circumstances surrounding “Night Has a Thousand Eyes” forced Elijah and Hayley to confront their deepest fears and vulnerabilities. They realized that they couldn’t navigate the dangers of New Orleans alone and that they needed each other more than ever. This shared vulnerability paved the way for them to finally embrace their feelings and take a leap of faith.
Embracing the Connection
In a moment of raw emotion and desperation, Elijah and Hayley shared a passionate embrace, solidifying their connection as a couple. This act wasn’t just a physical expression of their attraction; it was a declaration of their commitment to each other, a promise to face the challenges ahead together. It was the culmination of seasons of simmering tension and unspoken desires.
Consequences and Lasting Impact
The ramifications of their union extended far beyond the immediate moment. It changed the dynamics within the Mikaelson family, particularly Elijah’s relationship with Klaus. It also solidified Hayley’s position within the family, transforming her from an outsider to a vital part of their complex web of relationships. “Night Has a Thousand Eyes” served as a turning point in their individual journeys and in the overall narrative of The Originals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elijah and Hayley (Haylijah)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the relationship between Elijah and Hayley, affectionately known as “Haylijah,” that delve deeper into their connection and its impact on the series.
FAQ 1: What initially attracted Elijah to Hayley?
Elijah was initially drawn to Hayley’s strength, independence, and fierce protectiveness of her unborn child. He admired her willingness to stand up to the Mikaelsons and her unwavering commitment to Hope’s well-being. This initial respect blossomed into a deeper attraction as he witnessed her vulnerability and compassion.
FAQ 2: Why did it take so long for Elijah and Hayley to get together?
The numerous obstacles blocking their path included Elijah’s dedication to his family (especially Klaus), Hayley’s commitment to her werewolf pack, and the constant dangers lurking in New Orleans. These external factors created a complex web of conflicting loyalties and responsibilities, preventing them from fully embracing their feelings for each other.
FAQ 3: How did Klaus’s actions affect Elijah and Hayley’s relationship?
Klaus’s manipulative tendencies and his tendency to create chaos often put a strain on Elijah and Hayley’s relationship. Klaus’s betrayal of Hayley and his constant conflict with Elijah significantly impacted their ability to find peace and happiness together. His actions created mistrust and resentment, making it difficult for them to fully commit to each other.
FAQ 4: What challenges did Hayley face as a werewolf in a relationship with an Original vampire?
Hayley faced numerous challenges as a werewolf in a relationship with an Original vampire. She often felt like an outsider within the Mikaelson family, struggling to balance her loyalty to her pack with her feelings for Elijah. Her werewolf nature also made her vulnerable to threats that Elijah couldn’t always protect her from.
FAQ 5: How did Hope’s birth impact Elijah and Hayley’s bond?
Hope’s birth strengthened Elijah and Hayley’s bond, solidifying their shared responsibility as her parents. They were united in their desire to protect her and provide her with a safe and loving environment. This shared purpose deepened their connection and reinforced their commitment to each other.
FAQ 6: Did Hayley ever truly love anyone other than Elijah?
Hayley had connections with other characters, such as Jackson Kenner, but her love for Elijah was consistently portrayed as the most profound and impactful relationship in her life. While she shared a deep bond with Jackson based on shared responsibility for her pack, her feelings for Elijah were on a completely different level.
FAQ 7: How did Elijah’s amnesia affect his relationship with Hayley?
Elijah’s amnesia, induced by Marcel, erased his memories of Hayley and their love, creating a devastating rift between them. This loss of memory erased years of shared experiences and emotional bonds, forcing them to rebuild their relationship from scratch, a task fraught with pain and uncertainty.
FAQ 8: What was the most heartbreaking moment in Elijah and Hayley’s relationship?
There are many contenders, but Elijah’s decision to sacrifice himself to destroy the Hollow, knowing that it would mean leaving Hayley and Hope behind, is arguably the most heartbreaking. This act of ultimate selflessness demonstrated the depth of his love for them and the lengths he was willing to go to protect them.
FAQ 9: How is their relationship perceived by fans of The Originals?
“Haylijah” is a hugely popular ship among fans of The Originals. Their complex dynamic, undeniable chemistry, and shared history have resonated with viewers, making them one of the most beloved couples in the series. Fans often express their appreciation for the depth and complexity of their relationship.
FAQ 10: What were the key elements that made Elijah and Hayley’s relationship so compelling?
Their forbidden love, the constant obstacles they faced, and their unwavering loyalty to each other made Elijah and Hayley’s relationship so compelling. Their shared vulnerability and willingness to sacrifice for each other further deepened their bond and captivated audiences.
FAQ 11: How did the writers portray the evolution of their feelings throughout the series?
The writers meticulously developed Elijah and Hayley’s relationship, showcasing the slow burn of their attraction and the gradual deepening of their emotional connection. They skillfully portrayed the internal conflicts and external pressures that shaped their relationship, making it feel realistic and relatable.
FAQ 12: Was there a “Haylijah” happy ending?
While their story is marked by tragedy and loss, the ending of The Originals suggests that Elijah and Hayley found peace together in the afterlife. This bittersweet conclusion offered a glimmer of hope that their love endured beyond the confines of the mortal world. Their spirits were ultimately reunited, hinting at a lasting and eternal bond.