Compare it to Azriel saving Elain from Hybern, not wanting her to face the darkness of the trove, getting tense when she fought with Nesta, wanting to bloody Rhys because he upset Elain, wanting to protect her from Bryaxis, and slaughtering everyone but Elain in his nightmare.
Elriel antis after Acosf was released: Azriel will obey Rhys and stay away from Elain
Acosh: Azriel doesn't stay away from Elain
Elriel antis after Acosh was released: Azriel will not follow Elain to Vallahan
Azriel's last thoughts in Acosh:
Also the fact that Madja said Elain's mate would know what was happening to her, and once Azriel knew she was a seer, they learned about Koschei, Vassa, and the onyx box.
What if Koschei is TERRIFIED of Elain and Azriel ending up together because they’re the key to his death? And what if he’s been manipulating fate itself to keep them apart? 👀