Hathorn's Guide: On the Edge of the Whispering Grove

If you're new, you might want to start at the beginning of these letters.

The Twenty-Sixth of Covaris, 468th Year of the Empire

My Decedent Patrons,

We have traveled close to 150 miles of woodland and fields, and now rest outside the Whispering Grove. Beyond this verdant enclosure is a straight track to the Southern Spire. Many old adventures and back room gossipers speak of this wood in hushed tones. None of the tales shine a positive light on the hidden shadows walking in the ever present twilight beyond the edge of the Grove.

I fret that we may encounter creatures and frights beyond our skills. Dathor and Aliasbe exude confidence in consoling me on our impending trek through the dark forest. 

As we set up camp, for even with their fortitude, none of our party wish to venture forth at night. None of the sunset bleeds into the dark forest. I swear the shadows dance waiting to snag us when we enter. As Selenar built our fire, I set up my kitchen. I knew we would need a meal fit for the finest dining halls. Fit for an emperor. 

Ishael and I skirted along the edge of the forest picking herbs that grew abundantly along the outer rim of the woods. I harvested a plethora of mint, thyme, and sage. The scent was ethereal. I would have held them to my nose and lost myself in the scent if Ishael had not tugged my sleeve, dragging me back to our encampment. 

Upon our return, I set to making our meal for the night. I figured that entering a magical forest is a perfect opportunity for a whimsical and enchanted meal that complements the setting. I would love to introduce you to my "Harmonious Herb Pies." These savry hand pies will be filled with a delightful blend of the herbs we harvested on the outskirts of the Whispering Grove.

Hathorn's Harmonious Herb Pies:

Ingredients:

For the filling:

- 1 cup mixed herbs (such as Mint, Sage, Thyme as we picked here, but whatever you have on hand should be fine)

- 1 small onion, finely diced

- 1 tablespoon butter

- 1/2 cup broth of your choice of stock- we had vegetable on hand 

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the pastry:

- 2 1/2 cups finely sifted flour (you can use a mix of wheat and nut flours if you desire)

- 1 cup butter, chilled and cubed

- 1/4 cup cold water

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- A pinch of pixie dust (optional, it will make your pastries light and fluffy, and maybe levitate as well)

Instructions:

1. For the filling, sauté the diced onion in the butter until translucent. Add the mixed herbs and cook for a few minutes until fragrant. Pour in the vegetable broth and simmer until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the filling cool completely.

2. For the pastry, combine the flour, chilled butter, sugar, and pixie dust (if using) in a mixing bowl. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water and knead the dough until it comes together into a smooth ball.

3. Ensure your oven or fire is adequately warm before by starting your fire now. 

4. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and cut it into small circles or other fantastical shapes if you desire.

5. Place a spoonful of the cooled herb filling onto one half of each pastry shape. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges to seal the pies.

6. Transfer the pies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

7. Optionally, you can brush the pies with a beaten egg for a golden and glossy finish.

8. Bake the pies for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and emit a heavenly aroma.

I hope you find these Herb Pies to your liking. As you enjoy them I hope it transports your mind to the sounds, smells, and sights of the mystical forest.

Your Noble Traveling Chef,

Hathorn Rophine

PS- if you enjoy these letters, and want them to continue, I encourage you to toss a few coins to this enchantment to keep them coming.