<nc-section data-title="Version 1: A Stern Welcome" data-color="red"> Sir Roland stood by the stables, his armor catching the last rays of the sun. He was a tall man with a stern expression, his gray eyes measuring me as I approached. “Frederick, is it?” he called out. “We’ll see if you have the courage to match your eagerness.” Without waiting for a reply, he turned on his heel, gesturing for me to follow. The other squires watched in silence as I dismounted and hurried after him, my heart pounding with anticipation—and a touch of fear. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: A Warm Greeting" data-color="green"> Near the stables, Sir Roland leaned against the fence, laughing with the stablehands. He turned as I approached, his lined face breaking into a welcoming smile. “Frederick! Welcome to Castle Oakshield,” he said, extending a gloved hand. His grip was firm but friendly. “We’ve been expecting you. Come, let me show you to your quarters. There will be time enough for duties tomorrow, but tonight, you are our guest.” His kindness settled my nerves as I led Thunder to the stalls, feeling I had found a place to belong. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: An Unexpected Test" data-color="blue"> Sir Roland emerged from the shadows beside the stables, a watchful hawk perched on his leather gauntlet. He nodded curtly as I approached, then whistled. “Before you settle in, Frederick, let’s see what you're made of,” he said in a gravelly voice. Thrusting a wooden practice sword into my hands, he beckoned me to the training yard. The stable boys gathered to watch as I squared off against the legendary knight—my journey was to begin with an unexpected trial under the evening sky. </nc-section>