[U]Khan[/u] Khan didn’t mind the cold, bitter winter or the flakes which blanketed most of the school’s ground. Not that it really reached him within his winter wear, a thick fur coat and boots or the Pyromancer Rune rested at his neck base. The cold wasn’t the reason the Headmaster fell a heavy discomfort in his heart while his eyes watched near the gates that had opened wide for their seasonal guests. A large group, far bigger than the Opening Feast arrivals, had started to roll into the stone walls. The wheels from many transport crunched the soft, fresh snow into the ground as boots marched in unity towards the courtyard’s center before they drew to an instant halt. His eyes panned the selection now set before him, his sight keenly sought any sight of trouble among the already high tension. Each nation showed its own might but most were dwarfed in comparison to the Djarkel and Eania armies. To the right of the courtyard stood the Paladins, an army of vitamancers and well trained soldiers who were taught to master their fear in combat. Each standard Paladin wore the same white armor which looked like molded bone and fit well to their form, giving them a military and unified appearance. The only differences were the sizes and the markings upon the chest plate’s right breast which announced their rank. Each the weapon of choice, a saber, hung at their sides at the exact angle and position making each one looked like a mirror image of the last. It was clear Eania’s briefs for equality spread even through its army. Djarkel’s was very much different, their own set of Warlocks seemed to once had the same identical armor, though instead it was black and seemed to be more made to intimidate then practical defense. It was a tactic which had worked in the past and even today, it made them seem ferocious. Though their main colors were black and red, the variety in their furred lined coats as well as their armor shifted from full regiment to selective worn remains were easily spotted which made them seem more like individuals then a group. It extended down even to their weapons, ranging from spears to sabers, and even more exotic types making them appear to be a motley crew. From both the armies and their assortment of convoy, two figures had separated themselves and now made their way to Khan’s current position. The [url=http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QVGI9OZhapU/UWm9q1MuN3I/AAAAAAAACTY/SIZrvF9wGc8/s1600/lion-sorceress.jpg]woman[/url], Djarkel official and a witch Necromancer, strolled in an elegant fashion with her thigh high boot clicking against the stone yard. Her long blue cloak seemed to dance behind her with the closer she drew while beside her was the Eania official. From his height and symbol on his armor, the creature was a snow elf and honorably retired military yet there was little much Khan could tell about him. Both looked equally displeased to be walking in step with someone from their rival, their pace quick but steady so not to betray their impatience to be done with the chore. When they finally closed the gap, the woman stepped forward first to introduce herself. Her gloved hand held out for Khan to take it and spoke in a rather mystical voice, one she knew would get on the other’s nerves. “Mariam, Djarkel’s official and Necromancer master.” Her mention of her blood was keen attempt to rile the Eania official while he removed his helmet, his white features and short buzzed hair gave character to his face lined by winkles. Khan’s intelligence on who was to be the Eania’s official, Jordan Sonnet who was father to one of their teachers, was correct much to his own disappointment to see the city attempt to leverage some advantage they might’ve hoped to gain. Out the corner of his eyes, the Headmaster noted a slight, depressive sigh come from Lidda at the sight of her kin. They both had their problems and conflicts during her employment at the College; Jordan’s hope was that Lidda might sway the Archmage to alliance with Eania. However his hopes were in vain because each time, Lidda had proven where her trust lies and prefers the neutral nature of the College’s stance. Khan had put on his mask, not to betray his own thoughts, as he took her hand and shook it. Her smile was faked clearly but he didn’t say a word, her form took a step back to allow the Eania to introduce himself and shake Khan’s hand too. After the normal proceedings had ended, the Headmaster led them into the castle and would soon vanish behind closed doors.