NOVEL NEXT Prologue – Chapter 00: The Explosive Beginning ( Edited)
Year: 2030 – Dhaka, Bangladesh
The skyline of Dhaka was illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights and the endless stream of car headlights weaving through the bustling streets of Dhanmondi. It was a city that had flourished despite the many challenges faced over the years. Once seen as a small country struggling with overpopulation, poverty, and natural disasters, Bangladesh had transformed itself into a powerful nation over the past two decades.
In 2030, Bangladesh stood proudly as one of the most advanced military powers in Asia, rivaling the likes of India and China. Decades of strategic alliances, economic growth, and technological advancements had given rise to a modern, well-equipped, and disciplined military force. The country had become a regional powerhouse, respected by its allies and feared by its adversaries.
At the center of this new Bangladesh was Khalid Zaman, a young man in his early twenties. Born into a prestigious military family, Khalid's father had served as a general in the Bangladesh Armed Forces, and his uncles and cousins were all part of the country's military establishment. But Khalid was different. Though he came from a family of soldiers, his passion lay elsewhere.
Khalid was an anime and military otaku. He spent countless hours watching anime, reading manga, and studying modern warfare. His room was filled with military memorabilia, model tanks, and shelves lined with DVDs of his favorite anime series. Yet, despite his love for military tactics and history, Khalid had never imagined himself as a soldier. He was content with his life as a university student, enjoying long discussions with his friends about anime and the latest military technology.
Bangladesh’s Rising Power
In the past decade, Bangladesh's rise had not been without tension. Its neighbor, India, viewed the country’s growing military strength with suspicion and concern. Once reliant on India for trade and security, Bangladesh had forged new alliances with Turkey, Malaysia, and Pakistan, positioning itself as a leader of the Islamic world in Southeast Asia. It had developed cutting-edge military technology, advanced cyber-warfare capabilities, and a powerful defense industry, making it a force to be reckoned with.
The growing tension with India was evident in the media, with skirmishes along the border and constant diplomatic spats. However, most people in Dhaka believed that full-scale war was unlikely. After all, Bangladesh’s military was stronger than ever, with state-of-the-art defense systems, sophisticated missile technology, and one of the most formidable air forces in the region.
Khalid, like many young Bangladeshis, had heard the rumors of an impending conflict, but it felt distant—something for politicians and military generals to handle. He never expected it to reach him personally.
But fate had different plans.
A Night to Remember
It was a quiet evening in Dhanmondi. Khalid and his friends were enjoying their usual gathering at a local café, discussing the latest episode of their favorite military-themed anime. As the conversation turned to the hypothetical battles between anime characters, a low rumble echoed across the city. The sound was so faint at first that no one paid it much attention. But then, a deafening roar shook the ground, and the glass windows of the café shattered with a violent explosion.
“What the—” Rafiq, Khalid’s best friend, yelled as he hit the ground, covering his head.
Khalid’s heart raced. Instinct kicked in, and his mind went into overdrive. This wasn’t a drill, and it wasn’t some random accident. He’d studied enough military scenarios to know what was happening.
"India… they’ve launched a surprise attack!"
Outside, the once-busy streets of Dhanmondi were now filled with screams of terror as people fled in every direction. The sky lit up with fiery streaks—missiles, jets, and explosions all at once. India had launched a full-scale, surprise assault on Dhaka.
Khalid’s thoughts swirled in chaos. This couldn’t be real. Bangladesh’s defenses were supposed to be impenetrable. How had India managed to launch an attack on the capital?
“We need to get out of here, now!” Khalid yelled, grabbing Rafiq and the others. “Head to the lake! It’s the closest cover we have.”
They sprinted through the streets, dodging debris and explosions as they ran. The chaos around them was unimaginable—buildings crumbled, people screamed for help, and military vehicles rushed past, trying to mobilize in the face of the unthinkable.
As they neared the lake, a massive explosion tore through the ground behind them. The shockwave sent Khalid flying through the air, and in that split second, everything slowed down. He saw his friends shouting, reaching out for him as the blast hurled him into the lake. His vision blurred as the cold water enveloped him, and everything faded to black.
Another World
Khalid awoke to the feeling of cool air on his face. His clothes were soaked, and he felt disoriented. He sat up slowly, blinking at the sight before him. The lake… it wasn’t the same one in Dhanmondi. The landscape had changed completely. Instead of the city skyline, he saw rolling hills, dense forests, and distant mountains. The sky was a strange, alien hue, with twin suns casting long shadows over the unfamiliar terrain.
"What… what is this place?" Khalid muttered to himself, trying to make sense of what had happened. Was this a dream? Was he dead?
As he stood, a strange, transparent window appeared before him. It hovered in the air, displaying a series of words that sent a shiver down his spine.
"You have been transported to another world. Welcome to the Dimension of Narsin."
The message lingered for a moment before shifting to new text.
"Military System Activated. You are the Commander."
Khalid’s mind raced as he read the words. The Military System? What was this? Before he could process what was happening, more information appeared.
"You have the ability to summon modern military arms, vehicles, infantry, and logistics. Establish order in this world of chaos. Protect the innocent. Lead with justice."
Khalid stood there, his heart pounding in his chest. This couldn’t be real. Yet, as he waved his hand, the transparent window responded, expanding to reveal a list of options: "Summon Infantry," "Summon Vehicle," and more. It was as if he had been dropped into a real-life military simulation, only this time, the stakes were far higher.
For a moment, Khalid felt a surge of excitement. He had dreamed of commanding his own military force for years, albeit only in the virtual worlds of games and anime. But now, this was real. He had the power to summon armies, vehicles, and weapons from modern-day Bangladesh.
But with great power came responsibility.
Looking around at the unfamiliar world, Khalid knew that this place would be filled with its own dangers. He could sense it—this world of Narsin was a place of conflict, ruled by those who sought power through force. But Khalid had been raised on the principles of justice, fairness, and morality. His country, Bangladesh, had always valued peace, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Khalid clenched his fists, determination filling his heart. If this world needed a leader, a protector, then he would become that force. He would bring order to this chaotic land, using his knowledge of modern warfare and the Military System that had been granted to him.
Taking a deep breath, he issued his first command.
"Summon Infantry."
In a flash of light, a squad of soldiers materialized before him, clad in modern Bangladeshi military uniforms, rifles in hand, standing at attention. They saluted Khalid, waiting for his orders.
This was his new reality. And in this world, Khalid Zaman would fight not just for survival, but to create a future where justice and peace could prevail.
And so, Khalid Zaman’s journey began. From a peaceful life in Dhaka to the role of commander in an unknown world, he would face challenges unlike any he had ever imagined. But with the power of the Military System at his side, he was prepared to forge a new path, one that would leave a legacy both in this world and the one he had left behind.
Khalid Zaman stood in the clearing by the shimmering lake, the air thick with a palpable tension. The soldiers he had summoned were sharp-eyed and alert, reflecting the discipline he had often admired in military documentaries. They were his first tangible link to the power he had been granted, and he felt a rush of responsibility wash over him.
“Commander, what are your orders?” one of the soldiers asked, his voice steady and confident. Khalid marveled at how natural the exchange felt. These weren’t mere figments of his imagination; they were real, fully equipped soldiers, ready to follow his lead.
Khalid’s mind raced. He had read countless novels and watched endless anime about heroes thrust into strange worlds, but this was different. This was real life, with real consequences. He had to think strategically.
“First, we need to assess our surroundings and gather intelligence,” he replied, his voice steadying as he embraced his role. “We must find out where we are and what threats exist.”
The soldiers nodded, ready to execute his orders. Khalid turned to the soldiers. “You there, what’s your name?”
“Corporal Zafar, sir,” the soldier replied, standing taller as he spoke.
“Corporal Zafar, gather a team. I want you to scout the area. Report back any signs of settlements, possible enemies, or anything that seems out of the ordinary. The rest of you, secure this position and keep a lookout.”
As Corporal Zafar gathered a small team of soldiers, Khalid took a moment to collect his thoughts. He had been transported to an unknown world, granted incredible powers, and thrust into the role of a commander. Yet, despite the gravity of the situation, a small spark of excitement ignited within him. This was his chance to create a new destiny—not just for himself, but for the people of this world.
“And one more thing,” Khalid called after them, as they prepared to move out. “Stay alert. We are in unfamiliar territory, and we don’t know what might be lurking in the shadows.”
The team nodded, and with that, they set off into the dense forest, their figures quickly disappearing into the underbrush.
A Moment of Reflection
Left alone with the remaining soldiers, Khalid took a moment to breathe deeply, focusing on his new reality. He could hardly believe it. His surroundings felt alive with the sounds of nature: the rustling of leaves, the distant chirping of birds, and the soft lapping of water against the shore. Yet, he knew that danger could lie just beyond the trees.
With his heart racing, Khalid took a step back from the lake and closed his eyes, trying to visualize the scene that had brought him here. The chaos of Dhaka, the explosions, the panic, and then—darkness. It all felt like a nightmare, but it had propelled him into this extraordinary situation.
“What have I gotten myself into?” he murmured. Yet, he felt a surge of determination. He had to make the most of this opportunity.
Suddenly, a glowing notification flashed before him, breaking his thoughts.
“New Mission: Explore the Region. Gather Resources. Establish Base of Operations.”
The details appeared, outlining his mission objectives. Khalid studied the information closely. “Gather Resources”? It sounded straightforward enough, but it implied the need for a sustainable supply chain in this world. That was a concept he understood from his military studies—logistics was the backbone of any successful campaign.
“Alright, I need to establish a stronghold,” he whispered, formulating a plan. “We need food, shelter, and a secure base.”
He turned to the soldiers remaining by the lake, including a tough-looking sergeant named Amina.
“Sergeant Amina, we need to gather supplies and materials for a base. I want you to lead a team to see if there are any suitable locations nearby.”
Amina nodded, her eyes fierce and determined. “Yes, Commander. We’ll find a place that is defensible and offers good access to resources.”
“Good,” Khalid replied, feeling a sense of camaraderie with the soldiers. They were all in this together, and his leadership could mean the difference between life and death.
“And find out if there are any local tribes or people. We might need allies in this world,” he added.
Amina saluted sharply. “Understood, Commander. We’ll keep our eyes open.”
As Amina and her team moved out, Khalid felt the weight of the situation settling on his shoulders. He was responsible for their safety, their lives.
The Sound of Footsteps
Time passed slowly as Khalid paced by the lake, his mind racing with plans and strategies. He envisioned what a stronghold could look like—a secure encampment with a barracks for his soldiers, storage for supplies, and a command center where he could coordinate their efforts.
Suddenly, the tranquility of the forest was shattered by a rustling in the bushes. Khalid's heart raced as he turned, instinctively reaching for the combat knife at his side—a weapon that felt foreign in this new world, yet comforting in its familiarity.
A figure emerged from the foliage—a young girl, no more than ten years old, her wide eyes filled with fear. She was dressed in tattered clothes, dirt smudged on her cheeks.
“Please! Don’t hurt me!” she cried, holding up her hands defensively.
Khalid’s heart softened at the sight. He knelt down to her level, speaking gently. “I’m not going to hurt you. I promise. What’s your name?”
“I’m Mira,” she stammered, her voice trembling. “I… I saw the explosions. I was hiding. Are you a soldier?”
“Yes, I am,” Khalid replied, his mind racing with the implications of her presence. “Can you tell me what happened? Where are your parents?”
Mira looked down, tears brimming in her eyes. “They were taken by the monsters. They come from the mountains and take people… please, help me!”
Khalid’s heart sank at her words. Monsters? Were there truly creatures in this world that preyed on the innocent? He glanced back toward the lake, where he had summoned soldiers only moments before. They could protect this girl, but he needed to know more.
“Mira, we’re going to help you. You’re safe with us now,” he assured her. “But I need you to show me where these monsters are coming from.”
The girl nodded hesitantly, still trembling. “I can… I can take you to my village. It’s not far.”
Khalid weighed his options. The idea of venturing into unknown territory was risky, but he couldn’t abandon a child in need.
“Alright, let’s go. But stay close to me, and be quiet. We don’t want to draw attention to ourselves.”
With a firm resolve, Khalid took Mira's hand, leading her away from the lake. He felt a sense of purpose growing within him. Not only was he a commander with a mission, but he was also a protector, a beacon of hope in a world filled with uncertainty.
As Khalid navigated through the thick underbrush, holding Mira's hand tightly, his mind churned with thoughts of the unknown challenges ahead. The girl had told him about monsters that roamed the mountains, but what kind of creatures were they? Would they be as fearsome as the foes depicted in his beloved anime, or was he facing something altogether different? The uncertainty hung in the air like a dense fog.
“Is your village far from here?” Khalid asked, glancing down at Mira, whose face was still streaked with dirt and fear.
“No, just a bit further,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. “But we have to be careful. The monsters come out at night.”
The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the forest floor. Khalid knew they needed to find safety before darkness fell. His mind raced with strategies, formulating plans for what he would do if they encountered danger.
“Stay close to me, and if you see or hear anything unusual, don’t hesitate to tell me, okay?”
Khalid instructed, squeezing her hand gently.Mira nodded, her eyes wide, filled with both fear and a flicker of hope. Khalid couldn’t help but feel a sense of responsibility toward her. In that moment, he wasn’t just a commander; he was a protector, just as he had always imagined in the games and stories he loved.
The Village of Horan
After a tense trek through the forest, Khalid and Mira emerged onto a hillside that overlooked a small, humble village nestled in a valley below. The setting sun cast a warm golden glow over the thatched-roof houses, but the beauty of the scene was overshadowed by a sense of foreboding.
“That’s Horan,” Mira said, pointing to the village. “But… it’s not safe. The monsters come from the mountains and take people.”
Khalid scanned the area, taking in the surroundings. There was no immediate sign of trouble, but the air felt thick with tension. He needed to act quickly.
“Let’s get to the village. We’ll talk to someone there and see if we can help,” he decided, urging her forward.
As they approached the village, Khalid’s instincts were on high alert. He could hear faint whispers and the sound of hurried footsteps as villagers noticed the pair. Their faces reflected a mix of curiosity and suspicion.
Khalid raised his hand in a gesture of peace. “We mean no harm!” he called out, hoping to calm their fears. “I’m Khalid, a soldier. This girl needs help!”
Mira clung to his side, her small frame shaking slightly. The villagers began to gather, their expressions wary but intrigued. An elderly man stepped forward, leaning on a wooden staff, his face lined with worry.
“A soldier?” the man said, his voice raspy but strong. “What brings you to our village?”
“Monsters are terrorizing the area,” Khalid explained, keeping his tone steady. “Mira told me about them, and I want to help. We need to understand what we’re dealing with.”
The man’s eyes narrowed, clearly weighing Khalid’s words. “And how can we trust you? Many have tried to defeat the beasts, and they have all failed.”
“Because I can offer you a plan,” Khalid said, his voice firm and confident. He glanced at the gathered villagers, sensing their desperation. “I have soldiers, and we can defend your village. But I need your cooperation. If we work together, we can protect your homes.”
Whispers erupted among the villagers. Khalid could see the flicker of hope in their eyes, but fear was still palpable.
“You would risk your life for us?” the old man asked, his expression softening.
“Yes,” Khalid affirmed. “I will protect you and find a way to stop these monsters.” He took a deep breath, recalling the responsibility that rested on his shoulders. “Together, we can make a stand.”
A New Alliance
After a moment of silence, the elderly man nodded slowly. “Very well, young soldier. If you truly wish to help us, then we will share what we know. But know this: many have gone to face the beasts, and few have returned.”
With a newfound sense of purpose, Khalid felt a rush of determination. He could see the path forward: a partnership between his soldiers and the villagers of Horan. They would train together, strengthen their defenses, and prepare for the inevitable confrontation with whatever monsters lurked in the mountains.
“Gather the villagers!” Khalid commanded, his voice rising above the murmurs. “We will set up a meeting to discuss our plan. We will not face this threat alone.”
As the villagers began to disperse to spread the word, Khalid turned to Mira, who was watching him with wide, admiring eyes.
“You’re brave,” she said quietly, her voice filled with awe.
“I’m just doing what needs to be done,” Khalid replied, offering her a reassuring smile. “And you’ve shown great courage, too. We’ll keep each other safe.”
As they walked toward the center of the village, Khalid’s mind raced with possibilities. He could feel the weight of leadership settling on his shoulders, but rather than feeling overwhelmed, he felt invigorated. This was his chance to forge alliances, to bring hope where there was despair, and to become the commander he had always dreamed of being.
The Gathering Storm
As night fell, the village of Horan lit up with flickering lanterns, casting a warm glow over the faces of the villagers. Khalid stood at the center of a makeshift gathering, his heart pounding with anticipation. He could see the faces of the villagers filled with fear and hope, all looking to him for guidance.
“Thank you all for coming,” he began, his voice steady and clear. “I know you’ve suffered greatly, but together, we can find a way to protect your homes. We will fortify this village, train together, and prepare for the monsters.”
The villagers listened intently as Khalid laid out his plan. He spoke of strategy, of defense, of using their knowledge of the land to their advantage. He felt the energy in the crowd shift as they absorbed his words.
In that moment, Khalid realized he wasn’t just fighting for survival anymore; he was building a community, a family forged through adversity. The village of Horan would not just be a place to gather supplies; it would be a stronghold against the darkness that threatened to consume them.
As the night wore on, Khalid felt the first stirrings of hope take root within the hearts of the villagers. He could see their resolve growing, their fear transforming into determination. They were no longer just victims; they were allies, united against a common foe.
The Dawn of a New Era
With the night stretching ahead, Khalid felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension. The journey ahead would be filled with challenges, but he was ready to face them head-on. He would protect Mira, safeguard the village, and confront the monsters that plagued this land.
In this strange world, he had found purpose and direction. He was not just Khalid Zaman from Dhaka; he was a commander, a leader, and a beacon of hope.
“We will not be defeated,” he promised, his voice ringing with conviction. “Together, we will stand against any threat. We will protect what we hold dear.”
And as the first rays of dawn began to break over the horizon, illuminating the village of Horan, Khalid knew that this was just the beginning of an incredible journey—a journey of friendship, courage, and the unyielding fight for justice in a world filled with uncertainty.
With a heart full of resolve, Khalid Zaman embraced his new reality, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, not just as a soldier but as a leader who would inspire those around him.
This world had welcomed him with open arms, and he would not let it down.
The fight for justice and peace had only just begun.