The academy café was quieter than usual, the low hum of mana lamps casting a warm amber glow across the room as afternoon light filtered through the tall windows. The same large table near the back corner had become their unofficial meeting spot—tucked away, with just enough space to spread out notes, holo-screens, and half-finished drinks.
This time, the group had arrived with more efficiency, sliding into their seats without hesitation, their bags dropping with familiar weight onto the wooden floor.
"Alright," Jasmine said, tapping her fingers against the table rhythmically. "Let's not waste time. We already know the basics this time around, so we can start placing people right away."
Layla nodded, arms crossed as she leaned back in her seat. "Five-person formation, Tri-Layer Pressure. That means front line, mid-pressure, and support."
