December 16 From Wordwielder: Pies

A/N: I tried to do some research on appropriate Victorian pies. It seems pies in that period were quite elaborate affairs and often savoury instead of sweet. I might have taken a few liberties in order to make the story flow. My apologies in advance.

"I'm taking a survey," the young Scotland Yard recruit poised with pen and paper.

"Oh, and what are you surveying?" Inspector Lestrade looked up from his own paperwork and sighed. So many surveys this year; and for what purpose, to take away what precious little time he had to be in the field doing real detective work?!

"It's only one question," the recruit gave an apologetic shrug.

"Ok, fine. What's your one-question questionnaire?"

"What's your favourite pie?"

The Inspector looked thoughtful for a moment. "I will have to say plain apple pie. My mother made it every year for the holidays. It still brings back memories of family laughter and fun whenever I eat it."

The recruit nodded his gratitude and made a note on his paper.

~o~

"What's your favourite pie?"

"Steak and ale pie," Inspector Gregson replied. "It's sturdy and dependable.

"I like so many," Mary Watson smiled when the young recruit found her bustling about the streets finishing her Christmas shopping. "I guess I'll have to go with the chocolate tart. It's so delectable; no one can hate a good chocolate tart with cream."

"I do enjoy chocolate," Doctor Watson agreed. "But if I had to name a favourite, I'd have to go with Lemon Meringue." It can be a bit sour when it initially hits your mouth but give it a minute and the full flavours become apparent… delicate citrus with a complexity that baffles the taste buds and leaves the recipient yearning for more excitement."

Mrs Hudson dropped by the Yard to deliver her speciality later that day. The young recruit pulled out his pencil. "What your favourite pie, ma'am?" he inquired politely.

"Well, based on my contribution to the Yard's festive feasting… can't you tell?" Mrs Hudson's eyes twinkled and she laughed at the startled expression on the young man's face.

"Oh, yes, right. Of course, ma'am!" He smiled sheepishly and wrote down 'mince meat pie'. Very good, an excellent choice. Thank you for your contribution to the banquet. Mince meat is my choice too. My mother made them every Christmas."

Mrs Hudson smiled indulgently at the man. "Mince meat pie – traditional and so very British. I feel as if the recipe is part of my very blood. My mother and grandmother and great-grandmother all made mince pies."

"And might you know what Mr Holmes' favourite pie would be?" The young man looked up at Mrs Hudson hopefully.

"No, but you can ask him yourself. He seems to be talking with the Inspector over in the corner there."

The recruit made it way over to the pair. "Excuse me, Mr Holmes? I'm taking a survey. Would you mind telling me what your favourite pie is?" He stepped back respectfully to give the tall detective space.

"And what is the purpose in gathering this information?" Holmes looked at the man sharply. Inspector Lestrade waved a reassuring hand.

"He's ok, Holmes. He's new here. Administration put him in charge of the annual Christmas banquet here at the Yard. He's been asking everyone for their input today."

Holmes paused. The young recruit felt beads of sweat sprout on his forehead. His pencil trembled slightly in his grasp.

"Although I find your questions useless, after all, feasting while on a case is impossible and an impediment to my brain, I will answer your question. Clearly you are only doing your duty. The least objectionable option in pies is game pie, preferably that made from wild game such as venison, hare, and quail."

Holmes sniffed, satisfied he'd answered the question.

The young recruit gave a nod of acceptance and gratitude. He hurried off to collate his collected pie data.

As the Inspector watched the recruit disappearing around the corner, he chuckled. "Game pie, eh? He raised an amused eyebrow. "It's always about the game with you, isn't it?!"

"Come, Inspector. Let's not waste any more time on idle surveys. The game is afoot!