Final Rites
Brendon's Apartment – Morning
The faint hum of the television filled the room, the morning news report flashing across the screen. Brendon sat on the edge of his bed, staring at the TV with tired eyes. He hadn't slept much—not after what he had discovered last night. His mind was still racing, trying to make sense of everything.
"In other news, Ridgecliff police have officially closed the case on the murder of Jacob Williams," the anchor announced.
Brendon's ears perked up as the screen shifted to a live report. He immediately recognized the name appeared in the screen under the reporter—Anu Nair, it is the anthro sheep who had called him before, trying to get a scoop on the case.
She stood outside the Ridgecliff Police Station, her microphone in hand. Behind her, the building still bore signs of the recent attack—shattered windows, boarded-up sections, and security personnel standing guard.
"With the shocking revelation that Bronson Smith was responsible for Jacob Williams' murder, many citizens of Ridgecliff are left wondering—just how safe are we?" Anu spoke with a serious tone, her gaze sharp as she addressed the camera.
"According to the police reports, Bronson was caught attempting to attack another individual— Bradley Norman, who has video proof that Bronson was involved in racial attack against black teenagers— when law enforcement intervened. A recorded confession by the assistant Sheriff Robert secured his fate, confirming his involvement in the tragic death of 17-year-old Jacob Williams."
A pre-recorded video played on the screen, showing Chief Tyson addressing the press.
"We have solid evidence, including a direct confession from the suspect. The case is now closed, and Bronson Smith will be facing justice for his actions."
The camera cut back to Anu, who continued, "While this seems like a victory for justice, many Ridgecliff citizens are concerned. Just recently, the law enforcement building itself was attacked in what appears to be a targeted assault. If criminals can act so boldly, how secure are we under the current system?"
Brendon clenched his jaw.
"Is Ridgecliff truly in safe hands? With incidents like these occurring back-to-back, the people are left wondering if the authorities are capable of protecting them."
The screen shifted to show interviews with a few concerned citizens.
"If they could attack the police station, what's stopping them from coming for us next?"
"I'm glad they got the guy who killed that poor kid, but what about the bigger picture? Who else is out there?"
"Hey I heard that the Sheriff is a wolf. I mean really? Is the government have gone crazy? We all know that wolves are actually aggressive creatures always involving themselves into anti-social acts. So making a wolf the Sheriff. This can be dangerous for all of us."
Brendon turned off the TV with a frustrated sigh. He knew the truth—the case wasn't as simple as it seemed. There were still too many loose ends, too many unanswered questions. But the public didn't care about that. They wanted safety. And right now, Ridgecliff didn't feel safe.
He stood up, grabbed his coat, and headed out the door.
---
Ridgecliff Police Station – Brendon's Office
As Brendon stepped into his office, he immediately noticed two figures waiting for him. He recognized them instantly—Mrs. Williams, Jacob's foster mother, and Ivy, his step-sister.
Mrs. Williams was a kind-looking woman in her late forties, her face lined with grief but carrying a sense of quiet strength. Ivy, on the other hand, was around 19, her dark hair tied back in a ponytail. She looked a lot like Jacob—same sharp eyes, same stubborn determination.
Brendon straightened his posture. "Mrs. Williams, Ivy. What brings you both here?"
Mrs. Williams smiled softly. "Sheriff Wolf, we just wanted to personally thank you for everything you've done. Justice has been served for Jacob… and we are grateful."
Brendon exhaled, nodding. "I appreciate that, ma'am. Jacob deserved justice."
Ivy crossed her arms, tilting her head. "Yeah, and I heard you went through a lot to make sure that happened. That means something to us."
Brendon hesitated for a moment before saying, "I only did what needed to be done."
There was a brief silence before he spoke again. "What's next for you two?"
Mrs. Williams sighed. "We're taking things one day at a time. It's been difficult, but we'll manage."
Ivy added, "I'm gonna start working part-time at a gym. Need to earn my own money, you know? Can't rely on Mom forever."
Brendon raised an eyebrow. "Gym, huh? You into training?"
Ivy smirked. "Yeah. Jacob used to push me to work out. Guess I got used to it."
Brendon nodded approvingly. "That's a good choice. Keeps your mind focused."
Mrs. Williams then hesitated before saying, "Sheriff… we'd like to invite you to Jacob's funeral."
Brendon's expression softened. He wanted to be there. He owed it to Jacob. But he also knew the reality of his presence.
"…Mrs. Williams," he said carefully. "I'd like to be there to pay my respects. But the truth is, people won't be comfortable around wolves. I think it's best if I maintain some distance."
Mrs. Williams nodded understandingly. "No problem, Sheriff. We'll see you there."
---
Jacob's Funeral – Ridgecliff Cemetery
The cemetery was silent except for the occasional gust of wind rustling the trees. The funeral was small and intimate—only Jacob's close friends and family had gathered.
Brendon stood at a distance, about 40 yards away, watching from the shadows. His presence was unnecessary, but he felt it was his duty to be there.
Jacob's friends were present—Luca, James, Lewis, Isaac, and Bradley. Even Sydney was there, standing among them.
Each of them placed flowers on Jacob's grave, murmuring quiet goodbyes.
Brendon took a deep breath before lowering his head in respect.
"You deserved better, kid."
He stayed for a while, just watching, before stepping back and leaving without a word.
---
After the Funeral – Meeting with BM19
As Brendon was about to leave, he heard a familiar voice call out to him.
"Sheriff!"
He turned to see Luca, James, Lewis, and Isaac approaching him.
Brendon crossed his arms. "You guys holding up alright?"
Luca nodded. "As best as we can. It's still hard to believe he's gone."
James sighed. "At least he got justice. And that's thanks to you."
Lewis gave Brendon a small smile. "We really appreciate it, Sheriff."
Brendon gave a curt nod. "I just did my job."
Isaac then spoke up. "By the way… Bradley's gonna join BM19."
Brendon raised an eyebrow. "Is that so?"
Luca nodded. "Yeah. He wants to do something meaningful. After everything that happened, he doesn't want to just sit around."
Brendon looked over to where Bradley stood, talking to Sydney. He could see the determination in the kid's eyes.
"Good," Brendon finally said. "He's got guts."
James grinned. "Yeah, he does."
Brendon glanced at them all, these kids who had lost a friend but were still standing strong. Jacob would have been proud.
He exhaled. "Take care of yourselves. And keep an eye on Bradley. He's got fire, but make sure he doesn't burn himself out."
Luca smirked. "We got him."
Brendon gave them a final nod before turning away, walking toward his car.
The case is closed. But the all questions aren't answered.