Here are the three alternate sections: **Version 1 (red)** As I reined Thunder in beside me, the knight's gruff tone cut through the evening air. "Good evening, young messenger." Sir Roland's rugged face was set in a scowl, the scar above his left eyebrow seeming to darken his entire visage. "I was told you were here to convey the king's greetings?" he growled. I nodded, trying to speak calmly, but the fear of disappointing the king still lingered in my chest. Sir Roland eyed Thunder critically, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "And let's try the boy out there, then. Walk with me and show some initiative." I felt a shiver run down my spine as he approached us, his deep voice echoing across the courtyard. **Version 2 (green)** As I reined Thunder in beside me, the knight's rough voice pierced the evening air. "Good evening, young one." Sir Roland's intense gaze met mine, his piercing blue eyes seeming to see right through me. His rugged features were etched in a stern expression, and even I had to raise a hand to conceal the jitters that threatened to spill out. "Sir, I've told you before that you're here to present the king's greetings, weren't you?" The knight's gaze slid past me to Thunder, his arm still resting on the hilt of his sword. "You're looking a bit... restless." The horse, Thunder, seemed to sense the tension, its ears pricking in protest as it shifted slightly beneath me. It was a subtle cue, one I was all too familiar with. **Version 3 (blue)** As I led Thunder to the stables, a flicker of curiosity caught my eye. Sir Roland leaned against the wooden post, his arms folded across his chest. The fading colors of the sky cast long shadows across his features, but they only seemed to deepen the lines of concentration etched between his eyes. "Looks like you've brought a familiar," he said, his deep voice low and gentle. I felt a pang of recognition, despite all the years I'd been away from the castle. "Frederick?"