Ashes

Chapter 13: Confrontation

After their daring escape from Pond's compound, Phuwin and Chimon made their way through the labyrinthine streets of Bangkok, eventually reaching the safe house the resistance had prepared for them. The building was unassuming, tucked away in a quiet alley that masked its true purpose. Inside, it was a different world—a hub of activity, with resistance members organizing supplies, sharing information, and planning their next moves against Pond's empire.

The atmosphere in the safe house was tense but determined. Phuwin could see the weariness in the eyes of the resistance fighters, but he also saw something else—hope. His presence had reignited their belief that Pond could be defeated, and they looked to him now as a symbol of that possibility.

But Phuwin wasn't here to be a symbol. He was here to fight.

As soon as they arrived, Phuwin and Chimon were ushered into a small room where Khaotung and Fah, the resistance leaders, were waiting. The room was sparsely furnished, with maps and documents spread out on the table. A single bare bulb hung from the ceiling, casting harsh shadows on the walls.

Khaotung gestured for them to sit. "We don't have much time. Pond's forces will be looking for you, and it won't take them long to figure out where you've gone. We need to strike before they regroup."

Phuwin nodded, his mind still racing from the events of the escape. "What's the plan?"

Fah leaned forward, her eyes sharp with focus. "We've gathered intelligence on Pond's operations. He's been consolidating his power in key locations across the city—military bases, supply depots, communication centers. If we can hit those places simultaneously, we can disrupt his control and weaken his grip on Bangkok."

Chimon studied the map, nodding in agreement. "If we can take out his communications, we can throw his forces into chaos. It'll give us the advantage we need."

Phuwin listened carefully, weighing their options. It was a solid plan, but he knew that the most important target wasn't on the map—it was Pond himself. As long as Pond remained in power, the resistance would always be on the defensive.

"We need to go after Pond directly," Phuwin said, his voice firm. "If we take him out, the rest of his empire will crumble."

Khaotung frowned, his expression skeptical. "That's easier said than done. Pond's compound is heavily fortified, and even if we manage to get inside, there's no guarantee we'll reach him before he escapes."

Fah nodded in agreement. "We need to be strategic. If we spread his forces thin by attacking key locations, it'll force him to make a move. That's when we strike."

Phuwin considered their words. They were right—going after Pond head-on was a risk, but it was a risk they had to take. He couldn't let Pond slip away again.

"Alright," Phuwin agreed. "We'll follow your plan. But when the time comes, I'll be the one to face Pond."

Khaotung and Fah exchanged a glance, then nodded. "You've earned that right," Khaotung said. "But remember, this is a team effort. We need to work together if we're going to succeed."

With the plan in place, the resistance members began organizing their forces. Phuwin took a moment to center himself, drawing on the strength he had found in his powers and the memory of his mother's sacrifice. He couldn't afford to let his emotions control him—not now. The stakes were too high.

The resistance fighters moved with precision, gathering weapons and equipment, readying themselves for the coordinated strikes. Chimon was busy with the tech team, setting up communication links and ensuring that their systems were secure. Phuwin, meanwhile, prepared himself mentally and physically for the battle ahead.