Repulse was due to visit Australia after reaching the Far East ahead of Prince of Wales. If the Japanese attacks had begun a few days later, she could have been in Australia with two destroyers when war broke out. That would remove her from the circumstances of the historical Force Z sortie. This is a separate timing alternative to the missed encounter used for the main scenario.
Notable Point · 6:47-7:30
Repulse's Australian visit makes the timing of war matter
A few days' difference in the outbreak of war could have placed Repulse and two destroyers in Australia.