#debukefarmhold

(And as he does, keeps a watchful eye on CC's consumption as well.)

She seems to be eating a bit less than last Thanksgiving, though she samples a bit of a lot and likes everything

He catches himself starting to drum his fingers, stops, and continues the pleasant conversation.

Caesar is doing well, but facing a problem of success- "You wouldn't believe how many people are trying to buy the real estate I bought so they can mark it up. My wrestlingg manaer is on me to commit to the sport again"

"I think the wrestling is more glamourous, annd I mean that in every way" April says

"yeah, but I help more folks as a real estate mogul" He sighs

"Caesar, you know where your true passion lies." Emerson points out mildly.

"I suppose " He pokes a his ffood "Just..well..." Munch munch

He lifts an eyebrow and glances at CC.

"Caesar, you're not obligated to save fae kind"

that from CC

"Very true."

"I suppose, but the realty also means I can spend more time with the kids" He mmph

"I can babysit," his mom says

"I only have a few years of wrestling in me left" he says

"Then enjoy them while you have them" CC sniffs

Emerson glances to CC at the sniff.

"I hear you , mom. Fine fine... I'll focus on the wresttlinng more. Maybe get a full time manager for the property" He says

She doesn't appear to have a cold, but does eat light

April kisses Caesar on the cheek. In the background, Emerson's boggan skills pick up something interesing

The Centaur, Buck, seems popular with a lot of folks. But the Chief seems both pleased with him more so, and hiding something.

He notes this and keeps an eye on it. CC enjoys that sort of thing.

Meal, chatter.. and.. what's this? Clem treats Buck as if she has been inimate with him. But he does't treat her that way? Interestinng

The Hearth seems tired, proud, but weary.

maybe of soul

A glance at CC, whom he is loath to leave but... damn curiosity.... he offers to get CC another tidbit of something.

"Well, I do love pie" she says "Thanks"

He nods and, odd timing, ends up near the pie table (AN ENTIRE TABLE OF PIE) just as Agnes is there.

"Agnes! Hello! Sorry I haven't made my manners till now."

"Oh, so many folks here, Emerson, we're still saying hellos to all, the lot of us. Hope you're doing well?"

"Oh, you know... my deterioration proceeds apace. Yourself? You look amazing." with a twinkle.

"Mmmph. I erode just like anyonen else, just not where the younguns can see" She says deadpan, but her eyes seem weary

He tisks "I would imagine one needs must search very closely indeed to discover any erosion."

"We all have our fronts, Emerson," A slight brow lift "As you know"

A chuckle. "I am given to understand that one's front, and indeed one's rear, can be considerably shored up on a beach that includes drink service. Fruit drinks with little umbrellas for a preference."

"Well, I won't be going to Tahiti anytime soon"

"Somewhere closer to home? A break? I always say sometimes a change is as good as a rest........ Perhaps you could come see us at the Club?"

"Oh, I don't know. Mind you, I enjoy CC's old school touch, but Jazz isn't my cup of sweet tea"

"Something else then?"

"Emerson, I know your kith is perceptive, but do I look that bad?"

He steps close and beckons her so he can drop his voice. "You seem tired, Agnes." he answers honestly "We all have cause to be, you know. You're not alone."

"Mmm" She sighs "I fear my gump years are coming to their end time... not sayinng I'll keel over."

He will take her hand if she allows. "I am sorry to hear that, Agnes." no false promises or praise or encouragement; he knows as well as she does the realities of this world.

"Well, when it's my time to yield to Winter I'd just as soon snuff out mortal side too. Selfish as that seems." She lets him take the hand "Being forever undone is worse than dementia or alzhimers for our kind I think, or at least comprable . But for now I soldier on. What otherr choice is there but to mm?"

"An excellent question...." he murmurs, almost to himself "I suppose we must all bow to our Da'an, hm?"

A nod "It's for the best. Young need room to grow and become their own folk, take over the reins. " A sigh "Surely wish Sally Mae were full troll. Tradition can be rigid"

"I thought she was well ensconced at Rivervale?"

"She's a fine assistant there. But if she were a troll, she could be a hearth in her own right. If she werenn't dating that sidhe boy, she could be a Hearth here I think" A sigh "I've learned to bend some, but our rules are older than I am"

"Have you made other arrangements, then? A choice?"

"Truth? No. We may have to see if we can lure someone frrom outside"