Storms Brewing

The tension in the air was palpable as the leaders of the Aegis Sentinel Corps gathered in the conference room. The polished oak table reflected the subdued lighting above, but no one was paying attention to the aesthetics. A detailed map of Seladang City and its surrounding areas was projected onto the wall, marked with potential hotspots of conflict. Colonel Yusof stood at the head of the table, his expression as sharp as a blade.

"Recent intel suggests that our enemies are mobilising resources to undermine us on multiple fronts," Yusof began his voice firm but tinged with urgency. "The corporate and financial war is just the start. They're setting the stage for something much larger."

Jiang Han leaned back in his chair, his mind racing through the implications. The events of the past weeks had been relentless—waves of corporate attacks, covert threats, and a looming media campaign to tarnish his reputation. Yet, as overwhelming as it was, Jiang Han felt a growing fire within him. These challenges weren't just obstacles; they were opportunities to sharpen his resolve.

Major Azlan, leader of the Training Division, stepped forward, his imposing figure drawing everyone's attention. "We've been running simulations to prepare our divisions for coordinated attacks. The Training Division has updated our protocols to adapt to urban warfare scenarios, given the proximity of threats within Seladang City."

Captain Faizal Malik, Azlan's assistant, nodded in agreement. "The teams are ready for rapid deployment. We're focusing on agility and precision."

"Good," Yusof replied. "But preparation isn't enough. We need to anticipate their moves. Adrian, what do we have from the Intelligence Division?"

Adrian Yong stood, his composed demeanour giving little away. "Our analysts have identified key players backing our enemies. They're influential, well-funded, and determined. However, their network isn't impenetrable. Captain Elisa Tan is leading a sub-team to monitor their communication channels. We're confident we can uncover their next moves within 48 hours."

"Forty-eight hours might be too late," Jiang Han interjected, his tone calm yet resolute. "We need contingency plans. What if their attack happens tonight? Are we prepared to defend and counter simultaneously?"

The question hung heavy in the room. Lieutenant Colonel Razif Syahmi, leader of the Bodyguard Division, spoke up. "My team is already on high alert. Every VIP under our protection, including your family, has an enhanced security detail. Major Wan Harith is coordinating our urban deployment strategies to ensure no blind spots."

"We'll reinforce the perimeters around your properties," added Captain Nizam Salleh from the Security Guard Division. "Danny Yong is mapping potential breach points based on their previous tactics."

Jiang Han nodded, appreciating the meticulous planning. But he knew that defensive measures alone wouldn't suffice.

"We also need a strong offensive front," Jiang said. "Idris, Alina—how's the Support Division positioned?"

Mr Idris Zakaria, leader of the Support Division, adjusted his glasses. "The Cybersecurity Unit, led by Dr Imran and Sophia Liew, is monitoring digital threats. We've already neutralised several attempts to breach our systems. Sergeant Marcus Tan and Corporal Nik Suraya from the Counter-Surveillance Unit are working on detecting any physical surveillance near our key locations."

"Excellent," Yusof said. "But remember, they'll adapt. We must stay a step ahead."

Before the discussion could proceed, the conference room door burst open, and a junior officer rushed in, his face pale.

"Colonel Yusof, sir, we've received an emergency alert. A convoy transporting critical supplies for Jiang Logistics has been ambushed on the outskirts of Seladang City. Early reports suggest armed assailants."

The room fell silent, tension crackling like static electricity. Jiang Han's jaw tightened. This was no coincidence—it was a calculated move by their enemies to destabilise his operations.

"Details," Yusof demanded.

"The convoy was carrying high-value goods meant for a new contract. The attackers are heavily armed and seem to be holding the drivers hostage."

Razif was already on his feet. "Bodyguard Division can deploy immediately. We'll need intel on their numbers and positions."

Adrian spoke up, his voice steady. "Elisa's team can provide real-time updates using satellite feeds and drone surveillance."

Jiang Han stood, his commanding presence filling the room. "This isn't just about recovering the convoy. It's about sending a message that we won't be intimidated. Deploy all necessary resources, but minimise collateral damage. We need to show strength without recklessness."

Yusof nodded. "Agreed. Razif, coordinate with the Security Guard Division for backup. Idris, ensure the Support Division has eyes on the ground and in the air. Adrian, I want detailed reports every 15 minutes."

Within minutes, the Aegis Sentinel Corps was mobilised. Armoured vehicles rolled out from their headquarters, carrying teams of highly trained operatives. The Bodyguard Division led the charge, with Razif and Harith at the forefront. Behind them, the Security Guard Division secured secondary routes to prevent any escape.

Meanwhile, in the operations centre, the Support Division worked tirelessly. Dr Imran and Sophia monitored digital feeds for signs of enemy coordination, while Marcus and Nik relayed updates from counter-surveillance efforts.

Adrian's voice crackled through the comms. "We've identified their stronghold—a warehouse on the outskirts. They've fortified the entrances and stationed lookouts on the roof. Elisa is working on disrupting their communication channels."

"Understood," Razif replied. "We'll approach from two sides—front and rear. Harith, take your team through the back. I'll lead the frontal assault."

From the operations centre, Yusof observed the unfolding events, his sharp eyes missing nothing. Jiang Han stood beside him, his expression unreadable.

"This is more than an ambush," Jiang said quietly. "They're testing us, gauging our response. We need to end this decisively."

"And we will," Yusof assured him. "But remember, this is just the beginning."

As night fell, the convoy's captors grew increasingly restless. Inside the warehouse, the hostages sat huddled together, their faces pale with fear. The tension was broken by the sudden blaring of a distraction device—courtesy of the Bodyguard Division.

Razif's team stormed the front entrance with precision, neutralising the guards before they could react. Simultaneously, Harith's team infiltrated the rear, taking advantage of the chaos. Gunfire echoed through the night as the operatives engaged the attackers, their training and coordination evident in every move.

In the operations centre, Adrian monitored the situation closely. "Marcus, deploy countermeasures. We're detecting interference—they're trying to jam our comms."

"On it," Marcus replied, his fingers flying across the keyboard. Within moments, the interference ceased.

"Hostages secured," Razif reported. "Minimal casualties on our side."

"Good work," Yusof said over the comms. "Begin extraction."

As the hostages were safely returned and the convoy resumed its journey, Jiang Han stood in the shadows of the operations centre, his mind already racing ahead. This victory was significant, but he knew the war was far from over.

"Ge," Jiang Yu's voice broke his thoughts. "You look troubled."

Jiang Han turned to his brother, managing a faint smile. "Just thinking about what's next, Yu. Today was a win, but tomorrow? Tomorrow's another battle."

Jiang Yu nodded, his youthful determination shining through. "Whatever it is, we'll face it together."

Jiang Han placed a hand on his brother's shoulder. "That we will."

As the lights dimmed in the operations centre, one thing was clear—the storms brewing in Seladang City were only just beginning.