The barangay trial wrapped up with laughter and cheers, but Rafael's instincts told him the celebration would not last. As the team packed up the canister onto Kuya Bong's tricycle, Maria whispered again, her eyes narrowing at the man in the crisp polo shirt who hadn't stopped watching.
By the time Rafael walked back to the small covered court that served as the barangay's meeting hall, the man was waiting for him.
"Mr. Dela Cruz?" the man said smoothly, extending a hand. "Councilor Ignacio." His grip was firm, his smile practiced. "Impressive demonstration today. Truly inspiring."
Rafael shook his hand, keeping his expression neutral. "We're still in testing. Much work remains."
Ignacio chuckled, brushing invisible dust from his sleeve. "Oh, modesty. But you and I both know what we saw out there. Clear water from a swamp. The people cheered. That kind of image moves not only hearts… but votes."
Maria stiffened beside Rafael. Jericho, standing behind them, muttered under his breath, "Here it comes."
The councilor leaned closer, lowering his voice. "I can help you. With funding, permits, distribution. Imagine AquaPure units in every barangay in my district—sponsored by the office of Councilor Ignacio." His smile widened. "You provide the magic. I provide the reach."
Rafael studied him in silence. The Codex whispered in his mind:"Analysis: Political co-option attempt. Motivation: Self-promotion. Risk: Loss of independence. Recommendation: Polite deferral; gather intelligence; maintain distance."
He let the pause stretch, then replied evenly, "Councilor, I appreciate the offer. But AquaPure must remain neutral—focused only on service. If we tie ourselves to one office, others may close their doors."
Ignacio's smile didn't falter, but his eyes hardened just slightly. "Neutrality is admirable, Mr. Dela Cruz. But the Philippines is not kind to dreamers without allies."
Before Rafael could answer, Rosa approached, carrying bottled water to hand out to the children. She gave Ignacio a cheerful smile. "Councilor, care to try some?" She held out the bottle.
Ignacio took it, sipped, and nodded. "Clean. Very clean. You'll go far, Mr. Dela Cruz… if you know who to walk with." He slipped a business card into Rafael's pocket with practiced ease. "Call me. Don't wait too long."
When the councilor finally left, Jericho spat on the ground. "Snake."
Maria crossed her arms. "He's not wrong, though. Politics runs this country. If we're not careful, they'll twist AquaPure into their brand."
Rafael glanced at the business card, then tucked it away without a word. The Codex pulsed faintly:"Recommendation: Monitor Councilor Ignacio. Possible link to corporate networks: 41%."
That night, back at the warehouse, Rafael spread the card on his desk. The team argued around him—Maria urging caution, Jericho wanting to tear it up, Rosa suggesting at least listening once.
Rafael finally spoke, his voice low but resolute. "We won't sell ourselves for favors. AquaPure belongs to the people. If politicians want to help, it'll be on our terms—not theirs."
The workers nodded, some with relief, some with worry. Outside, the city buzzed with nightlife, neon signs glowing like restless eyes.
Rafael leaned back, staring at the ceiling. HydraCorp had been a corporate predator, obvious and brutal. Now, a new kind of enemy was circling—smiles instead of knives, handshakes instead of thugs.
The Codex glowed softly, words unfolding in his mind:"Phase Shift: Political Arena engagement unavoidable. Prepare for infiltration attempts, alliances, and betrayal."
Rafael exhaled. "So be it. If they want to play politics…" His gaze hardened. "…we'll outplay them."