Ashes

Chapter 11: Unlikely Alliances

Phuwin's resolve to escape Pond's grasp and find allies was strong, but doing so would be no small feat. The compound was a fortress, with layers of security that made it nearly impossible to leave undetected. Every corridor was monitored, and every exit was guarded. But Phuwin knew he couldn't stay here any longer. He needed to get out—now.

As he made his way through the labyrinthine hallways of the compound, Phuwin kept his head down, trying to blend in with the few staff members who moved about at this early hour. His goal was clear: find a way out, no matter what it took. But as he approached one of the service elevators that led to the lower levels, he felt a presence behind him.

"Looking for something?"

Phuwin spun around, his powers instinctively flaring at the sound of the voice. Standing a few feet away was Chimon, the young hacker who worked for Pond. Phuwin had seen him before, but they had never spoken directly. Chimon was slim, with sharp eyes that seemed to notice everything. He had the appearance of someone who could slip in and out of places without being seen—a useful skill in Pond's organization.

Phuwin tensed, ready for a fight, but Chimon raised his hands in a gesture of peace. "Relax, I'm not here to stop you," he said in a low voice. "In fact, I've been waiting for this moment."

Phuwin narrowed his eyes, uncertain of Chimon's intentions. "What do you mean?"

Chimon glanced around, making sure they weren't being watched. "I've been working from the inside, trying to undermine Pond's operations. I've been looking for a way to contact you, but with all the surveillance, it wasn't easy. Now that you're ready to leave, I can help you."

Phuwin's mind raced. Could he trust this stranger? Pond had already manipulated him and betrayed him once; he couldn't afford another mistake. But Chimon's offer was tempting—an escape route, an ally. He decided to take the risk.

"Why are you helping me?" Phuwin asked, his voice guarded.

Chimon's expression hardened. "Because I know what Pond is capable of, and I've seen what he's done to people like us—people with power. I don't want to be part of his twisted game any longer. And I believe you're the key to stopping him."

Phuwin studied Chimon for a moment, searching for any signs of deception. But all he saw was determination. He nodded slowly. "Alright. What's the plan?"

Chimon gave a quick smile, then gestured for Phuwin to follow him. "This way. We're going underground."

Chimon led Phuwin to a hidden entrance in one of the compound's service corridors. It was a small, unmarked door that opened into a narrow stairwell leading down into the depths of the building. As they descended, the air grew cooler, and the sounds of the compound above faded into silence. Phuwin could feel the tension building within him—this was the first real step toward freedom, but it was also filled with danger.

At the bottom of the stairs, Chimon unlocked a reinforced door that led into a dimly lit passageway. The walls were lined with exposed pipes and cables, and the floor was covered in a thin layer of dust. It was clear that this part of the compound hadn't been used in years.

"This is part of the old infrastructure," Chimon explained as they moved through the tunnels. "It was abandoned when Pond upgraded the security systems. Most of the staff don't even know it exists."

Phuwin followed closely behind, his senses on high alert. "And you do?"

Chimon smirked. "I make it my business to know things that others don't."

They continued through the maze of tunnels, the air growing stale and musty. Chimon led them with confidence, clearly familiar with the layout. As they walked, Phuwin's mind raced with questions. How had Chimon managed to survive under Pond's rule? And what was his true agenda?