Black Lotus: The Forbidden Elixir

Origin: The Black Lotus is an extremely rare and enigmatic flower that blooms only under specific astral alignments, in the darkest depths of the Forgotten Forests of the Empire. The flower is said to have been birthed from the very essence of the universe, absorbing ancient cosmic energies.

Appearance: It's a beautiful, mesmerizing flower. Its petals are a deep shade of black, shimmering with starlike specks that seem to shift and twinkle. Its core radiates a faint luminescent blue glow.

Harvesting: The act of harvesting the Black Lotus is a perilous endeavor. The forests it grows in are protected by ancient guardians and riddled with enchantments. Moreover, the flower must be picked during a particular phase of the moon to preserve its potency. If improperly harvested, it loses its unique properties and becomes a mere mortal plant.

Preparation: The petals of the Black Lotus are typically dried and then either smoked in ornate pipes, made into a thick, syrup-like drink, or even ground into a fine powder to be inhaled.

Effects:

1. Cosmic Awareness: Upon consumption, the user is granted a brief, overwhelming sense of connection to the cosmos. They might feel as if they're floating through space, touching stars, or even conversing with celestial beings.

2. Time Dilation: Time seems to stretch, making moments feel like hours or even days. This can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on the experience one has.

3. Deep Emotional Resonance: Past memories, suppressed emotions, and deep-seated desires come to the surface. This can lead to profound moments of introspection, catharsis, or even revelation.

4. Heightened Senses: The world becomes more vivid. Sounds are richer, colors more vibrant, and touch is intensified.

5. Telepathic Flashes: Some users report brief moments of telepathy, able to sense the thoughts or feelings of those around them.

6. Hallucinations: Often, these are not mere illusions but visions of other realms, past lives, or possible futures.

7. Euphoria: A deep sense of peace, joy, and connection to the universe is common, making it highly sought after for both recreational and spiritual use.

Dangers:

1. Addiction: Its transcendent experience makes it highly addictive, with some individuals becoming obsessed with reliving the experience.

2. Mental Strain: Prolonged use or high doses can lead to mental instability, paranoia, or even permanent psychosis.

3. Physical Detriments: The body wasn't meant to handle such intense experiences frequently. Regular use can weaken the immune system, cause respiratory issues (if smoked), or even induce comas.

4. Spiritual Drift: There are tales of users whose spirits have wandered too far during their cosmic journeys and never returned, leaving their bodies in a catatonic state.

Legal Status in the Empire: Given its power and the potential for abuse, the Empire has outlawed the possession, cultivation, and use of Black Lotus. However, the allure of the flower's promise ensures a thriving black market. The Empire's elite, including some within the Royal Family, are rumored to partake in its consumption during secret ceremonies.

In tales and legends, the Black Lotus is often symbolic of the ultimate allure and danger of power — offering unparalleled experiences and insights, but at potentially great cost.