Tristan, Matthias, and Nathaniel weren't fools. They understood the unspoken message loud and clear.
Their purpose for this trip was to take advantage of the opportunity to offer their condolences and win the Ballard family's support. Should it work, all the better. If not, they'd at least make a good impression.
The key was that as long as the Ballard family didn't pick a side or turn against them, there was still room to make things work. No need to rush into anything.
Tristan spoke first.