Each of the locals forms a lifetime bond with a powerful and intelligent photosynthetic animal called a furcot. When they need to damage a plant they are familiar with, they communicate with it empathetically ("emfoling") to make sure it does not object.
When needing to damage a plant that is known to them, each local forms a lifelong connection with a powerful and intelligent photosynthetic creature called a furcot. They communicate with the plant empathetically ("emfoling"), ensuring it does not resist.