Hayley Marshall and Elijah Mikaelson’s relationship, a simmering pot of forbidden longing, finally boiled over in Season 4, Episode 8, “Voodoo in My Blood”. This episode marked the culmination of seasons of stolen glances, whispered conversations, and undeniable chemistry, cementing their bond in a moment of profound intimacy.
The Genesis of a Forbidden Love: Exploring the Roots of Haylijah
The connection between Hayley, the fierce and independent werewolf, and Elijah, the noble and honorable Original vampire, was a cornerstone of The Originals. It was a dynamic built on mutual respect, shared pain, and an unspoken attraction that constantly danced on the edge of possibility. But what made this relationship so compelling?
The Allure of Opposites Attract
Hayley and Elijah represented contrasting worlds. Hayley, a product of the bayou, was raw, untamed, and deeply protective of her pack. Elijah, steeped in centuries of vampire history, embodied control, honor, and a desperate desire for redemption. Their differences, however, were their strength. He grounded her impulsive nature, while she brought a warmth and vulnerability that chipped away at his stoic exterior.
Parental Bonds and Shared Sacrifices
The birth of Hope Mikaelson further solidified their bond. They both fiercely protected Hope from the dangers surrounding the Mikaelson family, creating a shared sense of responsibility that transcended any romantic notions. Their commitment to Hope, often placing her safety above their own desires, added layers of complexity and depth to their relationship.
The Obstacles: A Love Constantly Tested
Their path to true romance was never easy. Klaus Mikaelson, Elijah’s brother and Hope’s father, posed a constant threat to their happiness. His volatile nature and possessiveness often drove a wedge between them. Furthermore, Elijah’s unwavering loyalty to his family, sometimes at the expense of his own desires, forced him to repeatedly choose between love and duty.
“Voodoo in My Blood”: The Eruption of Long-Awaited Passion
The context surrounding their moment of intimacy in “Voodoo in My Blood” is crucial. Elijah had his memories altered by Marcel Gerard to protect him from the Hollow’s influence. Stripped of his past, he was a raw, vulnerable version of himself, allowing his feelings for Hayley to surface without the usual layers of guilt and obligation.
The Unveiling of True Emotions
This altered state allowed Elijah to act on the feelings he had suppressed for so long. He saw Hayley not as a burden or a complication, but as the woman he loved, free from the weight of his complicated past. Hayley, in turn, responded to this vulnerability, finally allowing herself to reciprocate his affection without the fear of hurting those around her.
The Aftermath: A Brief Respite Before Tragedy
While their time together was brief, it was a powerful symbol of their enduring love. It represented a moment of peace and happiness amidst the chaos and tragedy that plagued their lives. However, as fans of The Originals know, this happiness was fleeting, setting the stage for further heartbreak and sacrifice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hayley and Elijah’s Relationship (Haylijah)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the complex and captivating relationship between Hayley Marshall and Elijah Mikaelson:
1. What drew Hayley to Elijah in the first place?
Hayley was initially drawn to Elijah’s honorable nature and unwavering loyalty. He offered her a sense of stability and protection that she had never experienced before. Furthermore, he treated her with respect and kindness, recognizing her strength and independence, unlike many others.
2. Why did Elijah fight his feelings for Hayley for so long?
Elijah’s commitment to his family, particularly his volatile brother Klaus, was the primary reason for suppressing his feelings. He feared that pursuing a relationship with Hayley would jeopardize his family’s fragile stability and put Hayley in danger. He also struggled with the guilt of betraying Klaus, considering Klaus’s complicated relationship with Hayley as Hope’s parents.
3. Was Hayley ever truly in love with Klaus?
While Hayley shared a brief romantic connection with Klaus, their relationship was primarily driven by necessity and convenience. They slept together, resulting in Hope’s conception, but their connection lacked the depth and genuine affection that she shared with Elijah. Their relationship was transactional rather than truly romantic.
4. How did Hope’s birth affect Hayley and Elijah’s relationship?
Hope’s birth significantly strengthened the bond between Hayley and Elijah. They became co-parents, united in their determination to protect her from the dangers of the supernatural world. This shared responsibility deepened their respect and affection for each other, solidifying their connection beyond mere attraction.
5. What was the significance of the necklace Elijah gave Hayley?
The necklace was a symbol of Elijah’s commitment to Hayley and their shared responsibility for Hope. It was a powerful gesture of protection and a constant reminder of the bond that connected them. It was a valuable and sentimental piece for Hayley.
6. How did Marcel Gerard influence Hayley and Elijah’s relationship?
Marcel posed a consistent threat to their relationship, particularly after becoming the Beast. His power and influence often put Hayley in danger, forcing Elijah to choose between protecting her and maintaining peace in New Orleans. Marcel’s animosity also contributed to the overall tension and instability surrounding their relationship.
7. What were some of the biggest challenges they faced as a couple?
The biggest challenges included:
- Klaus’s unpredictable nature.
- Elijah’s unwavering loyalty to his family, even at his own expense.
- External threats from various supernatural enemies.
- Hayley’s own internal struggles with her identity and place within the Mikaelson family.
- Their constant need to prioritize Hope’s safety above all else.
8. Was Elijah’s memory loss a turning point in their relationship?
Yes, Elijah’s memory loss provided a temporary window for him to act on his true feelings for Hayley without the burden of his past. It stripped away the layers of guilt and obligation that had previously prevented him from fully committing to her, leading to their intimate moment.
9. How did Hayley’s death impact Elijah?
Hayley’s death devastated Elijah. It shattered his world and robbed him of the woman he loved. This loss profoundly affected his actions and motivations in the final season of The Originals, driving him to make desperate choices in an attempt to protect Hope. Her death left a lasting scar on his soul.
10. Did Elijah ever truly move on after Hayley’s death?
While Elijah found a temporary connection with Antoinette, it was clear that he never truly moved on from Hayley. His feelings for her were too deep and too profound to be replaced. Antoinette was more of a comfort and a distraction from his grief than a true replacement for Hayley.
11. What made Haylijah such a popular and beloved pairing?
Their popularity stemmed from several factors: their undeniable chemistry, the forbidden nature of their love, their shared commitment to Hope, and the compelling contrast between their personalities. Fans were drawn to the complex and emotional journey they undertook together, rooting for them despite the numerous obstacles they faced.
12. What is the lasting legacy of Hayley and Elijah’s relationship in The Originals?
The lasting legacy of Haylijah is one of unconditional love, sacrifice, and enduring devotion. Their relationship served as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness and chaos of the supernatural world. They demonstrated that even the most different individuals can find common ground and build a powerful bond based on mutual respect and genuine affection. Their story remains a testament to the power of love to transcend boundaries and endure even in the face of tragedy.