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Rations

Rations

Item Details

Weight: 2 lb.
Cost: 5 SP
Category: Consumable
Duration: 1 day of food
Special: Prevents malnutrition

Description

Rations consist of travel-ready food designed to provide adequate nutrition during extended journeys. This preserved food includes a variety of items that won't spoil quickly and can be eaten without preparation.

Contents

A typical day's rations includes:

Preserved Proteins

  • Jerky: Dried and salted meat strips
  • Hard Cheese: Aged cheese that travels well
  • Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, or other protein-rich nuts
  • Dried Fish: Salted and smoked fish portions

Carbohydrates

  • Hardtack: Dense, long-lasting bread substitute
  • Dried Fruits: Raisins, apricots, or other preserved fruits
  • Trail Biscuits: Compact, nutrient-dense baked goods
  • Grain Cakes: Compressed oats or barley

Seasonings and Extras

  • Salt: Essential for health and food preservation
  • Dried Herbs: Basic flavoring for bland foods
  • Honey Sticks: Natural sweetener and energy source
  • Tea or Coffee: Dried beverages for morale

Usage

Rations consist of travel-ready food, including jerky, dried fruit, hardtack, and nuts. See "Malnutrition" in "Rules Glossary" for the risks of not eating.

Survival Importance

Malnutrition Prevention

  • Daily Requirement: One ration per day prevents malnutrition
  • Energy Maintenance: Provides calories needed for adventuring
  • Health Sustaining: Contains basic vitamins and minerals
  • Performance: Well-fed characters perform better in all activities

Emergency Situations

  • Backup Food: When foraging fails or hunting is unsuccessful
  • Weather Protection: Reliable food source during storms
  • Time Sensitive: When there's no time to hunt or gather
  • Urban Environments: Food source in areas without natural resources

Preparation Methods

No Cooking Required

  • Ready to Eat: Most components edible without preparation
  • Water Addition: Some items improve with hydration
  • Cold Weather: Items remain edible even when frozen
  • Hot Weather: Designed to resist spoilage in heat

Enhancement Options

  • Cooking: Hardtack can be softened in stew or soup
  • Seasoning: Local herbs can improve flavor
  • Combination: Mix with foraged foods for variety
  • Hot Drinks: Prepare tea or coffee for comfort

Storage and Preservation

  • Dry Storage: Keep away from moisture to prevent spoilage
  • Temperature: Store in cool areas when possible
  • Pest Protection: Seal against insects and rodents
  • Organization: Rotate stock to use oldest rations first

Economic Considerations

  • Cost Effective: Cheaper than eating at inns daily
  • Bulk Purchase: Buying in quantity reduces per-day cost
  • Trade Value: Acceptable currency in remote areas
  • Emergency Reserve: Worth having extra for unexpected delays