Ahab: Strategy

[x-cyclops.livejournal.com]

Two field leaders plot strategy.



"This is not the easiest scenario we've ever seen. And yes, I know that's something of an understatement..."

"Mm, yes. We have had rescues before where the subjects were not entirely grateful to be rescued. Never quite like this, though."

"I don't know, we've had a few situations that were pretty close..." A pause, to study the tactical simulation taking shape. "Some of the usual considerations go out out the window here. The powers mix isn't quite as significant, obviously..."

"Still, the team composition should be given all due consideration. In a situation like this it could make all the difference."

"... you have no idea how much I hate to admit it, but I think this one should be yours."

Another pause, this one stretching out uncomfortably long. "Perhaps. With the breakdown of the mercenaries being as it is, we must take into account the hindrances we may be facing."

"You have advantages I don't, in a situation like this. And I have one very significant disadvantage... there are some obvious candidates to go with you, at least. People who can adapt."

"Yes. And we can augment the manpower with technology..."

"... which may actually work to our advantage, given the situation." X-Men were added to the tactical simulation, and the variables shifted. "I thought of making use of force of numbers, maybe... but that introduces too many potential complications. We still need a stiletto, not a sledgehammer."

"I would prefer a small team, with infiltration abilities. Though I am not discounting the possibility of an all-out fight, it would be ideal to retrieve them with a minimum of detection. However difficult that may be."

"I don't know that it's possible, never mind difficult. The information Pete's 'friend' gave us... they're not stupid, these people Campbell's hired. If they're not prepared for an infiltration attempt, I'd be terribly surprised."

A shaky sigh, and the team in the simulation shifted once again. "Then do we forgo that approach altogether? Concentration on swiftness and power instead of stealth?"

"With this mutant who can wipe powers? No." The simulation shifted yet again at a few keystrokes. "We need a two-pronged attack. Split their attention."

"As much as I hate to say it... we should be wary of using all of our resources at once. If some some reason we do not succeed on the first attempt..."

"Agreed. Two teams for the first attempt, and we'll have another waiting in reserve."

"Very well. Obviously the desire to help the students is paramount; I doubt there will be much resistance from the team no matter how we divide them."

"The only resistance we can expect is to the idea of not going in first. But we'll have reasons to give." The laugh was low, unamused-sounding. "We always have reasons."