1st Chapter

The room pulsed with an electric energy, camera flashes orchestrating a dazzling spectacle as reporters enveloped Malaysia's Chief Secretary of the Government.

"Chief Secretary, as we navigate through the recent harrowing events in Ginza, could you share your reflections?" A reporter's voice cut through the hum, and the Chief Secretary, a portrait of poise, took a measured pause.

"Malaysia extends its deepest sympathies to those affected by the tragic incidents in Ginza. While our nations may not share the closest of alliances, we unequivocally denounce acts of violence and extend our heartfelt wishes for Japan's swift recovery." The response hung in the air, eliciting a flurry of note-taking and understanding nods from the gathered media. Another reporter, a hand raised, caught the Chief Secretary's attention.

"Can you provide insight into whether the Malaysian government has dispatched aid to Japan?" The question lingered, and the Chief Secretary's words resonated with a sense of readiness and compassion.

"At this point, Malaysia has not initiated the dispatch of aid to Japan. However, we stand ready to offer support should the Japanese government make such a request."

A new voice entered the conversation, "Is there any indication that the recent incident in Kampung Ulu Kenaboi is somehow connected to the Ginza tragedy? Furthermore, are there parallels with the situation in Novinka, Russia?"

"The incident in Kampung Ulu Kenaboi is unrelated to Ginza, involving terrorists. Reports suggesting connections lack factual basis. Regarding Novinka, Russia, there is no connection, and Malaysia is not aware of any gate-like phenomena within our borders." The Chief Secretary's responses carried a sense of clarity and assurance, providing valuable context to the intricate web of global events.

"Chief Secretary, as we delve into the aftermath, what steps is Malaysia taking to ensure the safety of its citizens domestically?" The room's focus shifted

"Ensuring the safety of our citizens is paramount. Our security forces are vigilant, and we're implementing measures to strengthen internal security in light of recent global events." The Chief Secretary addressed the question with a steady gaze, delving into the measures being implemented to fortify internal security.

A new voice, eager for insights into Malaysia's global stance, entered the dialogue. "Turning to the international stage, Chief Secretary, what is Malaysia's stance on potential collaborations or alliances in addressing these unprecedented challenges?"

"Malaysia values international collaboration. While we haven't formalized specific alliances, we're actively engaging with global partners to navigate these challenges collectively and contribute to global stability." The Chief Secretary's response wove threads of diplomatic finesse, emphasizing Malaysia's openness to global collaboration.

Another reporter, sensing a broader narrative, shifted the conversation. "Chief Secretary, with the recent geopolitical shifts, are there discussions within the Malaysian government about revisiting defense and security policies?"

"Absolutely. We're continuously assessing and adapting our defense and security policies to address evolving threats. The safety of our nation remains a top priority, and we're open to necessary adjustments as the situation unfolds." The room held its breath as the Chief Secretary unfolded the complexities of adapting defense and security policies to address evolving threats.

As the Chief Secretary began his departure, leaving the lingering inquiry unanswered in the air, the room continued to buzz with speculation. The reporters sought not just immediate answers but also insights into the intricate layers of Malaysia's response to the complex and evolving global landscape.

Sergeant Iskandar bin Razali sat inside his squad's AV8 Gempita as it rumbled down the road. They were heading to Kampung Ulu Kenaboi where they were told they'd be protecting the town from the terrorists that had previously attacked. Last week, news outlets had reported gunfire coming from the small village; the government was quick to assert it as a terror cell. Apparently, the village was still at risk of further attacks, and more forces were needed to prevent them. Iskandar didn't believe this excuse for a minute.

According to the government, the terrorists had been dealt with by local police. So why were they sending the military? And even if the threat was that great, a battalion of armored corps seemed like complete overkill. Beyond that, the entire terrorist excuse was awfully suspicious to Iskandar. Kampung Ulu Kenaboi was a small village in Malaysia; surely any terrorist activity would take place in the more densely populated city of Kuala Lumpur. This was not the sort of stuff you sent to deal with domestic terrorists.

Iskandar's mind couldn't help but draw parallels with the situation in Russia's Novinka. Both cases involved small towns, military involvement, and an air of secrecy surrounding the true nature of the threats. However, unlike Russia, where heavy military presence was deployed, Malaysia had only deployed one battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, one battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment, and one Royal Armored Corps. Additionally, the Malaysian Police (PDRM) with the support of Malaysian Volunteer Corps (RELA) established a roadblock to ensure that no civilians entered Kampung Ulu Kenaboi, maintaining a more controlled and localized response.

To add onto all of this, the world was in shock; Ginza, Japan had been attacked by soldiers taken straight out of a history book. Now the Prime Minister of Japan was talking about an alternative world with fantasy creatures and also invading said alternate world. After decades of peace, Malaysia went to war again. Only this time, it was against monsters and Romans.

Iskandar had to get his head together. A jumbled mind led to bad decisions and quick mistakes. As the squad leader, he couldn't let that happen. His battalion relied on him being a capable leader.

Shaking his head, Iskandar looked around the AV8. Most of his men were either sleeping or deep in thought like he just was. One of them, his second in command, Amir bin Hassan, made eye contact.

"Sergeant, can I ask you a question?"

"Of course, Amir, anything you wish." He backed up his response with a reassuring smile.

"Well, Iskandar." There was a hint of hesitance in his voice. "Do you think we'll see combat finally?"

Iskandar thought on the question. None of their battalion members had seen action in any recent conflicts. It's been a long time since there has been actual war, with the last conflict being the Lahad Datu Stand-off in 2013.

He finally came up with a suitable answer. "Perhaps, but I wouldn't bet on it."

Amir, leaning forward, continued, "I can't shake the feeling that there's more to this mission than they're telling us. I mean, monsters and Romans? It sounds like something out of a fantasy novel."

Iskandar nodded, acknowledging the uncertainty. "True, this situation is unlike anything we've encountered before. But our duty is to follow orders and protect our homeland, whatever the challenge may be."

As the AV8 continued its journey, another soldier, Farid bin Malik, chimed in, "Sergeant, what about the reports from Ginza? Soldiers from history books? What do you make of that?"

Iskandar sighed, contemplating the perplexing turn of events. "Ginza adds another layer to this puzzle. We're stepping into the unknown, and our mission is to uncover the truth. Keep your wits about you, men."

Amir, looking out of the AV8, raised another concern, "And what about this alternate world the Japan's Prime Minister mentioned? Do you think we're really going to encounter creatures and uncharted territories?"

Iskandar's brows furrowed in thought. "It's hard to say, Amir. But we'll adapt as the situation unfolds. Focus on your training, stay vigilant, and trust your instincts. We're in this together."

The AV8 suddenly lurched to a stop; they'd arrived at their destination.

"Everyone up!" Iskandar's yell woke up anyone that hadn't been awake from the sudden stop. "Move, move, move!"

The battalion scrambled out of their seats and out of the AV8's hatches. Iskandar was the last to go, and he was greeted by the sight of an empty village being flooded by fellow Malaysian soldiers. Checking to make sure he had all his equipment, Iskandar signaled for his battalion to follow him and started jogging to the center of the village with the other squads.

The village was completely void of any civilians, and there were no signs of the damage that would have come with a terror attack. They definitely didn't tell us the truth when coming here.

As they came to the village center, Iskandar spotted a strange building. It was unlike any Malaysian building he'd seen, marble pillars with blue crystals embedded in them; it almost looked like Greek or Roman architecture. It suddenly clicked for Iskandar. Their commander confirmed it for him.

"Soldiers of the Malaysian Armed Forces!" Major General Isa bin Rahman's voice boomed out of a loudspeaker. "Approximately one week ago, Malaysia was attacked by an enemy similar to the one seen in Ginza. Fortunately PDRM and RELA were able to repel the invaders back to the gate. In order to contain panic, the government declared it to be minor domestic terrorism. But make no mistake, these were bloodthirsty monsters who sought our homeland's destruction!"

There was a pause as the Major General regained his posture. Many of the soldiers spoke to each other in hushed whispers.

Isa continued. "You soldiers are hereby assembled as the 1st Royal Expeditionary Regiment. This regiment is to be tasked with the exploration of this new land and the discovery of those responsible for attacks on Malaysian soil. We cannot let this attack go unpunished."

Murmurs of agreement spread throughout the crowd of soldiers.

"Grup Gerak Khas (GGK) have conducted reconnaissance of the other side. They confirm what we had assumed. This is a completely new world, satellite communication is unresponsive, the existence of monstrous creatures has been confirmed, and a force is assembled ready to conduct a second attack."

He cleared his throat then began once more.

"They have also confirmed..." Isa's voice wavered, and he cleared his throat a second time. "They have also confirmed that these invaders have taken a significant portion of Kampung Ulu Kenaboi's civilian population as slaves."

Shouts of outrage came from the soldiers. There was significant hate brewing for these invaders. Iskandar found himself similarly growing disgust for the attackers.

"You have all been selected because we have faith you will do your duties. All of you have volunteered to defend Malaysia. It is my firm belief that none of you fail in your tasks."

The crowd of soldiers began to cheer. Every man here was a volunteer, every man here was a patriot, every man here was willing to die for his nation. It was almost as if someone had selected them specifically for those traits.

The Major General raised his hand to quiet down the crowd. "As many of you know, the Japanese Self-Defense Force has launched a similar incursion into what is now known as the Special Region. Though we fight a similar foe, it is the belief of our intelligence agencies that they will only try to prevent our retribution on the invaders and bring about international involvement."

"For this reason, upon any contact with the JSDF, all personnel are to remove any markings showing allegiance to the Malaysian Armed Forces and avoid interaction at all costs. All soldiers are required to cover their faces when in the field, and no photos or videos are permitted to be sent out of the Special Region without explicit permission."

Isa came to the end of his speech. "Tomorrow we shall embark on an expedition into a world unknown. Retribution will be collected, and these invaders shall be punished!"

More cheers sounded out as the Major General disappeared from sight. Iskandar looked at his cheering battalion; he couldn't help but feel a bit of patriotism in himself.

"You heard the Major General, be ready to mount up early in the morning. Tomorrow we go to war."

A/N:

Sorry for the similarity to the original story, I'm still new and I don't have any idea on how to start the story. Make sure to check the original story; "Little Green Man by fromdingdang564564". The original author no longer has the story so check "MiguelHazard2" to read the story.