[center][h1][i][color=ec008c]Rowan Balthier[/color][/i][/h1] [@VitaVitaAR][/center] There was a certain atmosphere in the air. Whether it be the peering lights filtering through the glass windows of the castle's walls. The myriad of men and woman of all kinds standing in awe of their presence, or simply the wealthy air of aristocracy, Rowan felt this place was different. Among comrades and strangers alike, The Knight of Iron Roses were summoned before royalty to demonstrate themselves before a crowd of people. Much like trophies or paintings in an art gallery. Physical attributes of displaying strength, shields and protectors of men and women a like. It was almost as if history wrote itself on a fairy-tale. Rowan's smile demonstrated a child-like glee to it, almost as if he was standing on what was at one point something so distant. Stretching his gaze towards the distance where he stood above a podium before the guests, at the throne room of Aimlenn Castle. It was a match lit in heaven... Was that how the saying went? A country bumpkin such as himself in these walls would make any parent proud, and so his thought drew to his family. Of course, only momentarily. There were no stories to tell, no shows to boast about, but plenty to be grateful for. The other's stood their ground, other decided to remove themselves from the limelight. Ironically, Rowan thought the same for the time, thinking it be best to not stick his nose where he thought it didn't belong. But he worked himself to the bone, he bleed and shed tears reaching this path. Some said it was as if it was destiny, he says it's because he decided to defy it. Strong of body, soft of soul, perhaps there were traits he lived by, even though it is subconscious. The princess, Eliabelle herself said to greet her, approach her and demonstrate their prescience. Some felt unworthy of the title, Rowan on the other hand, felt the need to prove he was capable of upholding it. The softness of his stare, the raise of the lips followed by a gentle bow before the princess and the blonde girls. [color=ec008c]"To meet us? Such would prove difficult your Majesty, for as beaming as we may be, The Iron Roses will never glimmer as bright as Aimlenn castle and yourself. The guest would attest to my claim."[/color] A glint of jesting in the midst of his words. Of course, he knew and understood fully the responsibility and weight of their craft. He stood strait once more linking his gaze with hers, demonstrating all forms of etiquette he had to almost forcibly swallow during his growth. [color=ec008c]"Yet I swear to uphold the name with duty and respect. I am Rowan Balthier. Proud spearman of the Iron Roses. Although I hold no esteem title, no stories of wonder to tell-"[/color] He peered for a moment towards the blondes and smiled softly, eyes and all, [color=ec008c]"-And no dragons yet slain, I can assure you that I will not falter in my duties as a Knight. With aid of Captain and team, I am proud to hold the title of knight."[/color] There were many in this ball, perhaps he got entranced by its grandeur, the sonata which shifted its atmosphere through the crescendo's of its tune. Tonight was a night for them, perhaps some saw it differently. Maybe others were merely here because of a summons. But it mattered not, Rowan wanted to bask in this appreciation and once it came to uphold his end of the bargain, his spear would plunge itself to the enemies which would shift the foundation of their peace. "It's been an honor, truly." He took a few steps back, behind Captain and team. [color=ec008c]"Hopefully this meeting would be one that garnished not only trust between us, but blossoms into fruition for our futures. In the mean time, I must now acquaint myself with the rest of the members of the ball. If there is need of me, kindly do not hesitate to summon me once more. If you would excuse me then."[/color] He proceeded to move away from the throne and into the mix of people. Making acquaintances was part of the job, after all... right?