IC: African Righteousness Options

[Darquewing]

12:35 3 February 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos
(PAN:passive)

While everyone starts planning the extraction, Solo is quietly contemplating the location and building security. Finally he looks up as Ambalo starts talking military hardware.

"Ghoster, if this is the same Alimosho we are talking about, we aren't really going to be bothered by any outside law enforcement. So, how quiet does this need to be? Now, gettin' the jump on the bludger is important, but beyond that, I don't think many in that wasteland are goin' to try and stop us on the way out. And, too right, insects won't take a likin' to some heavy incendiaries."

"Since they have a loadin' dock, that means they have deliveries, which could be an easy in/out. Just have to intercept a real delivery, and it's escort, and take their place."

[AzureusJake]

12:35, 3 February 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos, Africa.
(PAN: Passive)

Hammer listened carefully as the others asked questions and began the planning. Shedim were something he had very little experience with although he had heard the horror stories. A master Shedim was a new concept for him. Shedim are already extremely powerful, a master must be ridiculously dangerous. And they want it alive. Wonderful.

"I hate to interrupt but for those of us who aren't magically inclined, dealing with this...Shedim sounds like a really bad idea. As much as I'd like to remove this guys limbs personally, I figure I'm here to catch bullets. Have we considered a good old fashioned distraction? Something with explosions and screaming and guards heading in the wrong direction?"

[Faraday]

12:35, 3 February 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos, Africa.

"Big distraction with guns blazing? I admire your courage Oyibos, and I think that might be another good idea. Maybe have 2 or 3 of our heavy hitters raining hell on the front gate to keep them tied up?
With the number of people we have here, I can see that as a pretty good idea since that allows another 4 or 5 of us to sneak in the back way or come out from a hiding place there.

[Digital Heroin]

12:35 3 February 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos

Hitodama de
yuku kisan ja
natsa no hara

At the first mention of Shedim the words quietly issue from Noboru's mouth upon the mention of Shedim. Words to tip the lie of his rather public and much recorded existence, for the Noboru who starred opposite Tricia Markeet in Kiss, Bang, Kill is no philosopher.

Silently, he weighs the challenge in his mind, and allows his prospective teammates to question their employer. Money was not a concern. He would more than likely arange something in private with Ghoster to mask the true amount of the payment, and defer the majority of it to a local charity of good reputation. What concerned him was that the forces they were to combat were not so easily dismissed as to have some equipment on hand. He was not a magical theorist, but he understood when things were beyond the realm of 'normal' in a world known for pushing conventional boundries. Spirits posessing vermin and insects seemed far enough as to be the stuff of one of his less believable movies.

Still, the goal was honorable, and the challenge refreshing. He would perhaps be able to flex some of his less used skills, and it would give him a chance to pacify the mewling of his employers about how he is not putting in enough face time in his armor given the Rising Sun 2 ramp-up.

Ah, the life of a corporate whore.

`While I would be inclined to take a soft touch approach, there is wisdom in embracing the lawlessness of this land and going in hot. In fact, I believe there are those that would prefer it of me.`

He has yet to introduce himself, though he is not vain when he assumes at least one person amongst them knows his face.

[ Spoiler ]

Noboru's PAN is currently in Hidden mode, as it usually is in Lagos, but he is only rocking a standard 3 Firewall

[crizh]

[ Spoiler ]

Afrika's PAN is a black-hole. You cannot detect it's existence yet alone determine any of it's Ratings.

Of course it is possible that he possesses no electronic gear of any description.

The large black skinned human that has identified himself as Afrika sits impassively for some time while the others discuss their plans.

[ Spoiler ]

Obviously Afrika isn't human but you'll need at least 5 hits on Willpower + Counterspelling to even get to roll Assensing against his Masking..

Ambalo, there is no need to concern yourself about your aura revealing you during an infiltration. My Ally knows magics capable of altering auras in the the manner of a Physical Mask spell. Should you need to not be seen you will not be.

Yazata, I share your belief that this abomination must be dealt with and I might be able to help with a subterranean assault plan. Mother Earth will open to my will and permit us access to her womb. Likewise man made constructs of concrete and metal are mine to shape at will into any form I desire. If this monstrosity seeks shelter in the bosom of our mother it will be a simple matter to disavow it of any feeling of security it might possess.

A frontal assault to distract attention from a group slipping in the back door seems to be an excellent tactic. I have bargained with the Ancestors for aid and have two powerful Homunculi accompanying me that might lend much strength to such an assault.

[Darquewing]

12:35 3 February 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos
(PAN:passive)

"Blazin' guns I can do. If I make a good show of it, then this Ghoster fella might have more work of this pay-grade. Might be able to git those shonky slavers off my back. Looks like I'm gonna have to give'em a gander at the Beast."

(PAN:active, Signal: 1)
If it is a distraction we need, take a peek at this mates. It's like a mistress even the wife gets to ride on occassion.

<<@All: Download file: beast_sketchup.ggs?>>

The file contains a 3D sketch of a heavily modified Ares Roadmaster. A heavy armored turret sits on top armed with a Vigilant Light Autocannon. On the front is a large ram plate, and the whole thing sits up on six over-sized tires. Solo explains proudly, "The turret is gyro-linked, and can be handled remotely or by a gunner. It has off-road suspension and is can get through swampy areas, so if we're close to the western edge of Lagos, we can get out that way and back 'round. It has some good signature masking and high-end electronics in it as well. It packs a wollap and will definitely keep them flat out like a lizard drinking."

(PAN:passive)

[pbangarth]

12:35, 3 September 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos
(PAN:active)

<<@Fedora: Thanking you. Of course, all who are with me would be defended to my last breath!>>

(PAN:passive)

[budoka05]

12:36, 3 September 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos

Ghoster added, "Pardon my pronunciation, yes the facility is in Alimosho. Since that was a part of the city a hundred years ago, there are sewers that connect to the facility. However, the condition leaves much to be desired. Afrika might certainly have the ability for you to get in and out effectively."

"Another point to consider, Tamanous has been making regular pick-ups for the last few weeks. The Shedim have stopped making body dumps and have contracted the disposal. Since we have ghoul in the group, and possibly one more, you could also infiltrate by performing the pickup."

"If you go with the combat distraction plan, then my employers' extraction reinforcements can provide cover. There is a possibility that there are Shedim that are may come to this Master's assistance."

[pbangarth]

12:36 3 September 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos
(PAN:passive)

Yazata enjoys the lamb and yogurt immensely. He hasn't tasted such a good recipe in a long time. (PAN:active) He sends a message of appreciation to the chef. (PAN:passive)

"Is interesting having three avenues approach. I fear splitting team may make trouble. Distraction, especially if done by forces of employer, would work without needing our highly talented firepower. They would simply look like the people Shedim is expecting to attack from outside. You see what you expect and prepare for, you not get suspicious and maybe do getting overconfident.

"Pretending be Tamanous is good idea. But we have only one, maybe two ghoul. Does Tamanous have any non-ghoul? Would they send such to do collection? I am afraid Ambalo by himself could get into trouble. How would rest of us go in?

"Underground way seems only way we can get whole team into basement together and quickly. Fighting way in through upstairs will take time, and warn Shedim Master. If timing is right, can get distraction outside working right as whole team make it to central place.

"What you think? Am I miss something?"

[Faraday]

12:36 3 September 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos

Ambalo tries to think over the planning.
"I agree with having Ghoster's forces acting as decoy, but we may want to have them wait until we actually need a distraction. If we get close enough to this Shedim without detection before the distraction, we will have more time to take advantage of the distraction.

I would appreciate the help in hiding, Afrika, if I need to get in. Though can you keep the magic on me if you are not near me? It might also help if I need to go in as Tanamous. We'll need to intercept the clean up crew if we want it to work well.

Looks like we'll need a couple days to scout the place, check in on the Tanamous route, and get any important gear. I know I'll be getting some...special arrows if I can get them, along with a couple drums of sticky shock."

[crizh]

Existing sewers would certainly be a better starting point, there is less likelihood of structural collapse that might damage surrounding buildings and there will be less tidying up to do afterwards.

Yes Ambalo, once the illusion has concealed your aura Izoduwa will be able to maintain the spell without remaining with you. He only has to be able to see you while he works the sorcery.

[Ezeckial]

"I can attempt to break into the node quickly, or do it slowly and safely. Either way I can get us some more information which may help us in planning our infiltration. Layout and perhaps the time frames of these.... pick ups....

[pbangarth]

12:36, 3 September 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos
(PAN:passive)

"Something doesn't seem right about Afrika. I can't figure it out... like he is in a different world or something. Maybe if I concentrate...."

"...whoa!"¹

"He lights up like a festival!"²

[ Spoiler ]

(1) Resist Manascape spell
WIL(5+2) + Counterspelling (6) = 13 dice ==> 5 HITS
(2) Assense
Assensing (2) + INT (5) = 7 dice ==> 3 HITS

[OOC: crizh, whatever you can tell me for 3 hits, go ahead please.]

[Faraday]

12:35 3 February 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos

"If the slow, safe hack can be done in a matter of hours, I would say that route is best. We should probably take the rest of today and tomorrow to get things we need and scout the target."

[pbangarth]

12:36 3 September 2072, Ikeja district, Lagos
(PAN: passive)

"I agree with plan for slow, safe and getting equippings. For doing my spell to scout terrain above and below ground, would be good to get another materials for binding, but this often take day or two. I wondering if any team member have materials for Force 5 spirit can sell me quicker? I even happy to pay for better materials if necessary.

"Ghoster, you say time frame is a few days. Can you say what is exact time frame, and why? Do you fear more killings coming soon, or is other problem?"

[budoka05]

Ghoster adds to the discussion,
"Yazata, regarding the time frame, our concern is that the organization will take more subjects for their experiments. They've been following a pattern of taking new target every week. Unfortunately, I've only recently received the authorization for recruiting this group of professionals."

"One moment, I'll need to check my employers if we can spare more units for the decoy." Ghoster raised his hand and Yareen came over to take it. For a brief moment, the feelings from Yareen slipped away. When Yareen released Ghoster, the feelings returned.

"Gentlemen, you will have the extra man power if you so need it."

[pbangarth]

12:36 3 September 2072, Ikeja district, Lagos
(PAN: passive)

"Is good to hear about outside forces. If Shedim acts according to habit, when you think he strikes again?"

[budoka05]

"We anticipate 3 days from now. Ideally, we would like to hit them before the abduction occurs."

[Faraday]

12:36 3 September 2072, Ikeja district, Lagos
(PAN: active)

"Guess I better start on what I can get my hands on." Warund was Ambalo's main weapons dealer and fence, hopefully he'd have the ammo for the job.
<<@Ironside: Looking for some hardware, specifically ammo. Got some time later today, maybe tonight?##Steelfist>>

"Should be little issue with that. Today and tomorrow to prepare, then we strike the next night. To keep things moving quickly, I'll need at least some of the upfront money to get the appropriate gear, assuming it won't be handled after we finish the meeting."

[pbangarth]

12:37 3 September 2072, Ikeja district, Lagos
(PAN: passive)

"Then we must hitting monster before three days up. Ghoster, if necessary, can you acquire materials for us faster than we be able to? You living here, maybe you have contacts speeding things up. It normally takes day or two for find something like binding materials. Is too slow. I can cast spell without, but would like help from spirit to get most details possible.

"Also, I can thinking of mundane materials would like. Others here the same I sure. We give you list? I willing pay extra if speed up."

"No kidding. 80,000 nuyen? I haven't had that much money all at once ... since I was born. Not in all three years!"

[budoka05]

12:37 3 September 2072, Ikeja district, Lagos
(PAN: passive)

"Then we must hitting monster before three days up. Ghoster, if necessary, can you acquire materials for us faster than we be able to? You living here, maybe you have contacts speeding things up. It normally takes day or two for find something like binding materials. Is too slow. I can cast spell without, but would like help from spirit to get most details possible.

"Also, I can thinking of mundane materials would like. Others here the same I sure. We give you list? I willing pay extra if speed up."

"No kidding. 80,000 nuyen? I haven't had that much money all at once ... since I was born. Not in all three years!"

"Certainly, through my employer, we can get binding materials at a good discount. We'll be able to get them to you this afternoon. As for more mundane equipment, I can get them tonight, but I have to make some calls first."

[Ezeckial]

"Should only take a few hours to get an admin account." Fedora grins "Depending on complications of course. It would be rude for me to take a nap at the table howver. Perhaps we should reconvene later tonight with our new found information and supplies."

[Digital Heroin]

12:37 3 September 2072, Ikeja district, Lagos

Allowing the conversations to filter through his mind, but not to overwhelm him, Noboru considers the many facets of what the others propose. Calls for distraction, for power, and for subtlety are all weighed equally in his mind. Misdirection, sleight of hand, these appeal to his own sensibilities more than his employers at Horizon would want. And while he will have to record at least some of this encounter for them, lest he draw their wrath, he will play it out as he sees fit, let their visions of rocket-clad heroics be damned.

Drawing a quiet breath, Noboru awaits a break in the conversation. `I am inclined to say the Tamanous angle is perhaps our best way to get close. While in a more structured city the sewers would be a good point of ingress, they are often a quagmire with the best of maintainers keeping them sound. Here we would have no way save, if we were lucky, blueprints which were a century out of date to map them, and going in blind would be an unacceptable delay, if not downright suicidal.`

He says this with a neutrality to his tone, no command, merely the words of someone who, at one point of time, spent a good deal of his life infiltrating places where he was not welcome, killing people, and leaving. There are sides to the simstar that, while not buried completely along with his former life, were often unseen.

`Three days should be more than enough time, however a question does come to mind. The pattern of time may not be the only one. Has there been a commonality in the choice of locations where they snatch their victims from?`

Looking to Ezeckial, he nods. `Perhaps you are right, re-convening this evening for a more formal planning session may be in order. As one more technically oriented than myself, however, would it be possible for you to set up a secured means for us to communicate while not in each other's immediate presence, in case something were to come up.`

[AzureusJake]

12:40 3 February 2072, Ikeja District, Lagos, Africa
(PAN:Passive)

Kano listened as the others continued to plan. Using Ghoster's support team as a distraction and keeping the team together is a good idea. Not quite sure how well everyone will work together but that's a problem we wont be able to deal with until the we hit the squeeze. "I've never had dealings with the Tamanous so I no very little about what they do or how they operate. All I know is that they are flesh traffickers of some kind. I would appreciate it if someone would fill me in on them." Turning to Ghoster, "Something tells me we're more than likely to need explosives. Any chance your people could procure some foam explosives and det caps or at least point me in the direction of some who sells it? "

(PAN:Active)
Hammer<<@UncleMo: Any chance you're in Lagos and could come up with a case or two of grenades for my launcher?

Hammer<<@Holiday: You said you were here. Have you set up shop? This is job related so could we keep the arguing to a minimum?
(PAN:Passive)

[crizh]

[ Spoiler ]

Extended Masking: 12 Hits.

The Illusions are fairly easily pierced, I think you forgot to include Shielding so you would have had even more dice to see through them.

Without penetrating the Mask (that's a bit one sided by the way, I get to add Grade and you don't, very unlikely to lose that test.) you can tell that Afrika is a human mage (higher Magic than Yazata) channelling an extremely large Ally Spirit (higher Magic than Yazata). He is under the influence of one manipulation and two illusion spells (all higher Force than Yazata's Magic). Penetrating the second Illusion reveals that he is buck naked except for a necklace of sea-shells that are entirely mundane and probably represent his entire wealth.

Dancing beneath the 'skin' of his aura you can detect three Foci that appear to be implanted within his flesh somehow. The Power Focus is the same Force as your Magic stat but the Centering and Shielding Foci are a higher Force.

Afrika considers the Asian man's words for a few moments before replying.

You should not discount the sewers due to their dis-repair. I can repair them or create new access tunnels as easily as walking across the room. Should they be in a poor state it is entirely possible that an attack from this direction will be the last thing the horror expects. We should hold judgement on this until our investigation of the virtual world is complete.

Yazata, the Spirits have been whispering of the growing storm for some time and I have been making preparations, gathering reagents but I lacked the time to create sufficient offerings for more than the two Ancestors that currently accompany me. I could prepare more given three days however if Mr Ghoster can acquire appropriate offerings through his contacts much could be achieved in three days. I too would like to acquire binding offerings for Spirits of the sixth circle and some alchemical radicals of a herbal nature would enable me to prepare a number of Vessels for the Ancestors to ride.

Is there any possibility, Mr Ghoster, of acquiring a viable material link to the target? Ritual Sorcery is out of the question but Izoduwa could cast the bones with a viable link and we might learn something of this creature's plans.