The Weight of Memory

Chapter 3: The Gift of Reflection Finn stared at the reflection in the puddle.

It wasn't the proud, twilight-colored cat he remembered. It was a filthy, defeated creature

whose eyes held no spark. He stared until the shame of his appearance—the final

physical testament to his brokenness—became overwhelming. Willow watched from a safe distance,

giving him the solitude he needed. She had known that simply asking him to live wouldn't

work; he needed a reason to cleanse the ashes, both physical and spiritual.

A deep tremor passed through Finn's body. He lifted a paw, slowly, tentatively,

and began to lick his chest. The taste of soot and dirt was repulsive. He started grooming,