The cold metal of the collar closed around Issa’s neck in a soft and final click.

The sound echoed—not just through the big hall, but deep inside her.

Her breath caught in her throat. Her heart immediately sank. Her eyes, which were now wide with shock and fear, stayed locked on Val’s. His icy blue gaze burned with something she couldn’t name.

Her brain could not process it. He chose me again? Her mind echoed.

The words pounded through her mind, fast. How? Why?

Eka had said it ...