Decades, the "win the War" crowd has complained about this. Air Warrior in 1998, where people were paying BY THE HOUR.....had the very same complaints of secret alliances.
In the end, it's utterly satisfying, these salty tears.
Literally there is only one thing you should care about. Red contacts and where you can see them up close. It makes it easier when they come to you, BTW. It will make your flying that much more rewarding.
Cheers!