Jet couldn’t recall a time he’d ever felt such a mixture of conflicting emotions. On one paw, there was pride and love. So strong and intense for the children Finley had birthed. Especially for the daughter that was, at least for now, still with them. But then there was sadness, heartbreak even, for the two that hadn’t made it.
They’d never get to experience life. They’d been born out of their mother’s womb only for them to be destined to return to the earth. Then there was worry, too, for Atara. Though she seemed healthy for now, he couldn't shake the concern that something might happen to her, too. But he tried not to think of that. The loss was painful enough already.
With two tiny bodies in his possession, delicately wrapped in a bundle, Jet set out at first light to try to find a place to lay them to rest. His wandering had carried him beyond the falls, to one of the larger trees he could find in the immediate area. New plant growths and pretty flowers grew around it where light reached the forest floor, making the area seem as good as any for what he needed to do.
The dark one began his digging beneath its shadow, a hole that was larger and deeper than probably necessary. It provided a tiny outlet for the sadness and anger he’d felt at losing two children, but it didn’t seem to help. Tears he’d held back before burned his eyes now, and he didn’t try to reign in that sadness as he called for Finley.
She’d want to know where they were. Maybe to be here for it. He wouldn’t dream of depriving her of the chance to grieve, too.