~Rowan is nearly
uncomfortably upright and mannerly, occasionally wearing a political smile,
but infrequently emotive. In his efforts to be conventionally charismatic--impeccably
well groomed and restrained--he unintentionally conveys an air of lofty insolence
that sometimes hinders his military authority. What he lacks in natural influence,
though, he makes up for with grave determination, driven by almost zealous
loyalty.
Although, for a time, he technically outranks Regin, Rowan is easily usurped
where commanding personality is concerned and is forced into a constant struggle
to maintain his superiority. He relies on his exemplary social maturity to
muster respect from the Iomad's middle ranks--already married while Regin
is still quite preoccupied gallivanting with Ainessa's upper crust ingénues.
His conservative philosophy fails him, however, leaving him lingering and
out of touch--not magnanimous enough to reach the same level of sublime authority
Mannix has with his soldiers, and not gritty enough to relate to his minors.
Undeterred by his various shortcomings, Rowan reroutes his tactics and finds
an advantageous ally in his lieutenant, Bren Killian. Utilizing Bren's significantly
more abrasive personality, Rowan is able to confront Regin, albeit indirectly.
The two fasten onto each other, holding their ground tenaciously…not
against a warring enemy, but against Regin's looming dominion.
