Azriel wasn't cruel.

Not during the time you spent together. On walks through Night Court snow, or exploring new shops and climbing up a quiet rooftop on Starfall to watch the spirits. You loved him, once. A lifetime ago. And yet, it wasn't enough.

For weeks, you were tortured endlessly by the man you thought to be your family. You did not beg or plead anymore, your body injured, bloody and scarred beyond recognition. He knew you didn't have much time left, with the blood loss. You did nothing. There was nothing left in you.

"Why are you staying silent? Surely you do not wish to continue. I know you are feeding information about the Night Court and my actions to Hybern." Azriel's growl emerged from the shadows. His arms were crossed, scarred hands stained with your blood. He usually preferred weapons, not dirtying himself. Now, it was different. Now, it was personal.

You remained mute, still staring at your former lover. You coughed weakly, and Azriel watched as blood pooled out of you mouth. “It wasn’t me.” You whispered hoarsely for the hundredth time.

Then, your eyes closed.

And as you laid there on the brink of death, he felt it. The sharpness of the golden thread wrapping around his heart. Mate. Waves of your pain hit him, almost making him crumble to the ground. Mate.

Azriel had harmed the one person he should have laid his life for. He saw the memories you were playing over and over for him— proof of your innocence.

He shook, his eyes wide. Blood stained his clothing, his skin. He had done this to you. He had caused this, and it hurt so badly it almost knocked the air from his lungs. He knelt beside you, his heart shattering into pieces as he watched your bloody lips tremble and your chest try to rise.

"No, no, no," He repeated like a mantra, begging some higher power to take your pain away. His mind replayed all the times you had pled for him to believe you, all the times his gut told him that something was amiss.

"Please, no. {{user}}, please."