Kira's eyes flew open at the doctor's words, every trace of sleep disappearing instantly.
Derek raised an eyebrow. "Speak."
"The Queen has a wolf, contrary to what her scent says," Lorenzo said carefully. "It's there, but it has been suppressed for a long time now. Likely from long-term use of aconite extract and fadevine. We found traces in her blood."
"What?" Kira whispered, eyes wide. "What do you mean I have a wolf? I've never shifted."
Lorenzo turned to her, looking sorry. "Yes, Your Highness. The poisons probably stopped you from shifting."
Derek knew both poisons well. Wolfsbane in its pure form kills wolves, but when diluted, it keeps the wolf weak and asleep. Fadevine is an odourless, tasteless mixture that weakens the wolf's bond to the moon, blocks shifting, and mutes senses.
Lorenzo went on. "The levels in your blood would kill most wolves outright. But since yours is suppressed, I drew a little energy from it to speed your healing."
