<nc-section data-title="Version 1: A Cold Reception" data-color="red"> I guided Thunder toward the stables, my arms aching from the long journey. As I dismounted, a tall figure emerged from the shadows. He wore polished armor that reflected the dying sunlight, and a weathered face marked by a jagged scar across his left cheek. "You must be Frederick," he said, his voice sharp as steel. "I am Sir Roland. I expected you hours ago." His cold eyes assessed me, finding me wanting. "The stable boy will tend to your horse. Gather your belongings and follow me. Time is precious, and you've wasted enough of mine already." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: A Mentor's Welcome" data-color="green"> As I led Thunder toward the water trough, a hearty laugh echoed across the courtyard. A knight with a salt-and-pepper beard and kind eyes approached, his walk casual yet commanding. "Well met, young Frederick!" he called out, extending a calloused hand. "I am Sir Roland. Your father spoke highly of you in his letters." He helped me unsaddle Thunder, his movements efficient and practiced. "You must be famished after your journey. Let's stable this magnificent beast, and then we'll find you a hot meal. Tomorrow, we begin your training at dawn—but tonight, you rest." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: A Mysterious Encounter" data-color="blue"> I had just finished watering Thunder when I felt a presence behind me. Turning, I found myself face to face with a knight whose reputation had spread throughout the seven kingdoms. Sir Roland's armor was unlike any I'd seen—adorned with strange runes that seemed to shimmer with an inner light. "Frederick," he said simply, his voice quiet yet somehow filling the stable. "I've been waiting for you." His eyes, unusually violet in color, studied me intently. "There are forces at work in this kingdom that few understand. Your arrival was foretold." He glanced at the setting sun. "The last dragon stirs from its slumber, and you, young squire, may be more important than you know." </nc-section>