<nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: A Knight’s Welcome (Version 1)" data-color="red"> Frederick guided Thunder through the cobbled courtyard, his heart still pounding from the gallop. As he steered the stallion toward the wooden stables, a tall figure in gleaming armor stepped from the shadow of the granary. The man bowed slightly, visor lifted to reveal a weathered face framed by silver-streaked hair. “I am Sir Roland of Highcrest,” the knight announced, voice warm but authoritative. His sword belt clinked with each measured step. “Welcome to Castle Avelorn, young squire. I trust your journey was pleasant?” Frederick dismounted, hand trembling as he reached for Thunder’s reins. “It was an honor, Sir Roland. Thunder and I traveled without incident.” Roland nodded, scanning the horizon where the last rays of sunset spread across the walls. “Good. Your training begins at dawn. Rest well tonight—and if you require anything, you have only to ask.” With a friendly clap on Frederick’s shoulder, the knight turned and strode away, leaving the squire staring after him, determination and awe mingling in his chest. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: A Knight’s Welcome (Version 2)" data-color="green"> Frederick led Thunder between neat rows of stables, each stall draped with the kingdom’s blue-and-gold banners. From the corner of his eye, he noticed a knight studying a locked chest by the tack room. The knight rose, helmet in hand, and offered Frederick a broad grin. “Ah, you must be our new squire,” he said, voice rich with good humor. “Name’s Sir Roland. I was a squire once, too—though I can’t say I had a horse half as spirited as yours.” Frederick’s nerves eased at the knight’s easy manner. “Thunder is a handful, but he’s loyal.” Roland laughed, his chainmail jingling. “Loyalty is a knight’s best friend. Come—let me show you where we keep the saddles and feed. You’ll need to know every corner of this place before daybreak.” As Roland led the way, Frederick followed eagerly, curiosity ignited by the knight’s friendly banter and the promise of camaraderie in the days to come. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: A Knight’s Welcome (Version 3)" data-color="blue"> The clang of horseshoes echoed against stone as Frederick brought Thunder to a halt beside the stables. He was brushing the dust from the stallion’s flank when a towering knight approached, halting beneath a lantern’s glow. “Good evening, Frederick,” the knight said, voice low but welcoming. “I’m Sir Roland. I served King Eldric at the northern border. You’ll find I take my duties—and my stories—quite seriously.” Frederick paused, surprised the knight knew his name. “Your reputation precedes you, Sir Roland,” he replied, heart quickening. “I’ve heard tales of your valor.” Sir Roland inclined his head, eyes glinting in the lantern light. “Tales are only as true as the deeds behind them. Tomorrow, you’ll ride with me at dawn for your first real lesson: scouting the southern woodline. Rest now—tonight, the castle is yours to explore.” Frederick felt a spark of excitement ignite within—a promise of adventure, danger, and the forging of a bond that would define his path at Castle Avelorn. </nc-section>