Jack's reaction to Simon's death is complex and revealing:
* Initial Disbelief and Confusion: Jack is initially bewildered by the events, possibly because he did not directly participate in Simon's murder. He stands back, observing the boys' frenzied actions and the aftermath of the attack.
* Apathy and Denial: He quickly tries to distance himself from the event. He claims to have no idea what happened to Simon, despite knowing full well what the boys had done. He chooses to focus on the more immediate concern of the hunt.
* Relief and Justification: While not explicitly stated, it's implied that Jack feels a sense of relief at Simon's death. He had been increasingly frustrated with Simon's opposition to his leadership and his insights into the boys' savagery. Simon's death removes a threat to Jack's power and reinforces his authority over the group.
* Rationalization: Jack justifies the murder by claiming that Simon was "batty" and needed to be dealt with. This demonstrates his growing descent into savagery and his willingness to use violence to maintain his power.
Overall, Jack's reaction to Simon's death highlights his lack of remorse, his growing callousness, and his ambition for power. He demonstrates a chilling indifference to the value of human life, reflecting the darkness that has taken root in his heart.