The joint training facility that both factions had commandeered for their post-alliance meeting was considerably less formal than the neutral conference room. Located in the Academy's western wing, it was designed for small group tactical discussions with direct access to combat simulation chambers. The space was functional—padded benches along the walls, a central holographic display table, equipment racks, and most importantly, privacy wards that prevented external monitoring.
Both factions occupied opposite sides of the room in an arrangement that was trying very hard not to look like territorial division but absolutely was. Raya's group—Livia, Raven, Ava, Iris, and Serx—had claimed the eastern side, while Alex's faction—Yanel, Roy, Noha, and Jessica—occupied the western benches. Alex himself stood near the holographic display, looking characteristically optimistic despite the underlying tension in the room.
