In the excerpt from "Seize the Night" by Sherrilyn Kenyon, Artemis expresses her gratitude towards Acheron for his actions, but she reflects on a troubling realization. Despite their long history spanning eleven thousand years, she acknowledges that Acheron has never done anything for her without a price. This thought not only unsettles her but also motivates her to confront him, leading to an intriguing dynamic between the two characters.
This dialogue highlights the complex relationship they share, where gratitude is intertwined with a sense of debt and obligation. Artemis's fear stems from her understanding of Acheron's nature and past interactions, suggesting that there are deeper, perhaps darker, implications behind his motives. The tension in their conversation reveals significant themes of trust, reciprocity, and the consequences of power dynamics in their long-standing connection.