Pebble Beans

A common plant that grows throughout the highlands and lowlands of Isturoth is the creeping vine upon which grow the seed pods containing pebble beans. The beans or seeds themselves don't actually resemble pebbles, it is actually the seed pod that, once it has matured and drops off the vine, looks remarkably like a regular rock, particularly when it tumbles down the rocky slopes away from the original plant.
The beans are well-known for being a cheap and excellent source of protein, the highest of any vegetable that can be found in the Ironstone Mountains. As well as containing an abundance of nutriets, they are dense and filling and can sustain an individual for long periods of time.

Mechanics & Inner Workings

The randomised, rock-like exterior of the seed pods have likely evolved from the plant attempting to mimic the surrounding stone in order to prevent herbivores eating the seedpods or the beans contained within, which are destroyed through digestion. Some birds may be wise enough to give the pebbles in the area a tap with their beak to see if they are, in fact, seed pods containing a tasty treat. Otherwise, any Isturian would have no trouble distinguishing one from a natural rock.
Once a seed pod has tumbled away to a decent distance from the vine (so as not to compete with it for resources), the seed pod cracks apart and the bean is free. It does not need to be planted in dirt, it only requires sufficient water to sprout and begin creeping across its surroundings. Beans that do manage to find good purchase in nutrient-rich soil will grow even faster and provide additional seed pods.

Significance

Pebble beans are one of the staple foods of the Isturian people. The dense, protein-rich bean is so abundant that it is inexpensive and easy to acquire, and the ample nutrients make it a perfect addition to soups and stews. Sometimes the beans will be cooked and then mashed into a paste, after which it is shaped into bars (often with added barley) and dried. These provide a handy way to get an additional boost of energy and protein, as well as a good travel snack that will keep one's stomach full for hours.

Item type

Consumable, Food / Drink

Current Location

Isturoth

Rarity

Pebble bean vines are extremely common in Isturoth, even going so far as becoming a weed in farming plots and allotments. The vines are hardy and grow quickly, multiple veins coming from a single bean.