The Tabosu plant's ubiquitous presence in Elder Soterian society stems from its ability to grant various degrees of magical perception. While the use of leaves in religious ceremonies facilitates the perception of the Aether, the bark and flowers of the plant are used to gain a subtler sense of magic's presence. Despite the significant risks, even the toxic seeds have their role among those daring enough to seek deeper insight into the Aether's mysteries. However, misuse of the plant can lead to devastating consequences, underscoring the delicate balance between power and danger inherent in the plant's use.
Leaves
The leaves of the Tabosu plant grant a person a perception of the Aetheric flows around them when chewed. These visions typically present as auras or distortions in the air around objects and people, providing a limited ability to "see" magic in use. However, smoking the leaves results in a general sense of euphoria without the same visualizations of magic, although it might still allow users to "feel" the presence of magic in their surroundings.
Seeds
Despite the grave risks, the seeds of the Tabosu plant do offer a powerful connection to the Aether. While highly toxic and potentially brain-damaging, small doses of seeds can provide an immersive sense of magic, causing individuals to feel as if they are "in" the Aetheric flows. This often leads to powerful, though dangerous, magical insights and experiences. However, due to the high risk, the use of seeds for this purpose is extremely rare and heavily frowned upon.
Bark
The bark of the Tabosu plant, when brewed into a tea, can enhance one's sensitivity to magical energies, providing a subtle awareness of Aetheric activity in the surroundings. It does not allow the same degree of perception as the leaves or seeds, but it does provide a gentle 'buzz' or 'hum' that an attuned user can interpret as the ebb and flow of Aether in the nearby vicinity.
Flowers
The aroma of the Tabosu plant's flowers, while primarily sedative, does imbue a faint sensitivity to Aetheric vibrations. Users often describe a sense of 'dreamy awareness' of magical energies when exposed to the scent for extended periods. This perception fades as the effects of the aroma wear off but can lead to an enhanced understanding of Aether in dreams or meditative states.
Roots
Though primarily used for their antidotal properties, the roots of the Tabosu plant, when properly prepared and consumed, can briefly sharpen an individual's perception of magic. This effect lasts only for a short duration and is often accompanied by a heightened sense of clarity and focus. However, the precise and delicate process of preparing the roots means that this is usually the domain of experienced herbalists and magical practitioners.