The Chronicles Of Ixia (Books 1-6). Maria V. Snyder

Curare.” When he saw my confusion he continued, “Comes from a vine that grows in the Illiais Jungle. It paralyzes the muscles. It’s great for numbing toothaches, and for relieving minor pain. To freeze a whole body, the medicine would have to be very concentrated.” Leif’s eyes flashed in dismay.

      “Why are you so upset?” I asked. “Now you know what it is. Isn’t that good?”

      “Curare was rediscovered just last year. Only a handful of Zaltanas know about its properties. Our clan likes to know everything about a substance before selling it to others.”

      Understanding flooded my mind. Leif believed that the red-painted man could be from our clan.

      “Who found the Curare?” I asked.

      Still upset, Leif turned the vial in his hands.

      “Father,” he said. “And the only person I can think of who has the skills to concentrate the Curare enough to paralyze a whole body, is Mother.”