Arlene's POV
"What exactly is that supposed to mean?"
"Those are specialized plants we cultivate for both warfare and healing applications. Certain varieties allow us to gauge a pup's resilience. Particularly when testing alpha bloodlines."
"She actually used that on my child?" Ice floods through my veins.
"From what you've described, that appears to be the case," he confirms with a grave nod.
"Could it have killed her?"
"Your daughter would have survived, but if they had subjected Rockford to the same treatment, he might not have made it through."
"Dear God, Warner," panic begins clawing at my chest.
"I understand your fear," he exhales heavily. "But they're protected now. Nothing like this will ever happen to them again. You have my word."
"I'm such a complete fool."
"That's not true. You had no way of knowing," he attempts to soothe me, his hands moving along my arms.
