The Dale Decision

Gristle - Clarity

He and Crystal exited the room, leaving the door open a crack. They would be back soon enough anyway. They had told the triplets prior that if they needed them for anything – even just to talk, they'd be downstairs – specifically in the room just right off the stairwell.

He hoped he had shown his acknowledgement of the triplets' difficulties. He hoped he had shown appreciation of their problem solving – that was one of things in people he greatly admired.

Sometimes – or even much of the time – solutions were hard to come by. They weren't something to be taken for granted.

For whatever it was worth, he had found a good few things to enjoy about the trip – and a number of surprises as well. He had spoken with Harrison, who had told him about his wife, Thicket. Her name suggested she had descended from bandits, like him, but had also made a good life for herself. Stories like that, concerning "ex-bandits," were always uplifting.

He did wish there was better term than "ex-bandit" however. He never said it aloud; just kept it to himself.

He had also spoken with Arden Dale, about the construction of the Dale Manor. It was a shame that Crystal's uncle Flint hadn't come along. He would have greatly enjoyed joining in this discussion. Flint was more interested in buildings and infrastructure built for public use, rather than a private residence, but the Dale Manor was remarkably old. Old buildings like that interested him as well.

He and Crystal had also briefly discussed Holden Dale – apparently he had been an explorer, and had accompanied many expeditions.

It seemed there were developing a bond with the Dales. Naturally, not enforced – at least, he hoped. Gristle knew nobody could compel two or however more people to love one another. They were not props in some theatrical performance to be arrayed as the director wished.

The Dales had extended their hospitality, and they at the very minimum could at least meet one another; see if any rapport or kinship developed. If it didn't, they were all prepared to accept that, as far as he could see. There was nothing to be gained by making demands or impositions.

He had spoken with Crystal on that subject, in convincing each other that this was indeed the way forward. Jade had been involved in these discussions as well.

Family relationships were like that. Accepting a person as family wasn't some favour, or gesture, or responsibility that could be expected or demanded of someone. It wasn't something like doing the dishes or lending a fiver. If ever there was something people were allowed to be selfish about, it was this decision – it entirely concerned their own feelings and relationships at the deepest, most intimate level.

They walked downstairs, to a darkened hallway. Some lamps were lit, giving enough light to see by. Through one of the doorways came a flickering firelight – the one on the right, just like they promised the triplets.

He decided he felt like talking a little bit. See if he could get to know more of the Dales. There were quite a few of them. They had all done well in Gristle's estimation – the triplets had made a solid, commendable effort with these past two days – but he did feel he could do more to get acquainted with them.

Crystal nodded at him; she was thinking along the same lines. It had been her plan and goal originally; she would gladly take any opportunity to strengthen their family ties.

They entered the room – it was quiet; everyone was in a meditative, contemplative silence. There were a few empty seats over by the fire... Hopefully they were welcome to them.

He walked over, seeing Braden Dale, looking into the fire. Kendall was nearby, and beckoned them over. He exchanged a glance with Crystal, and took a seat on the sofa to the left of Braden's armchair. He looked up, and gave them a weary smile.