<nc-section data-title="Version 1: A Stern Welcome" data-color="red"> As I dismounted Thunder near the weathered stone stables, a towering figure emerged from the shadows. Sir Roland, his scarred face etched with years of battle, approached with heavy footsteps that echoed against the cobblestones. His steel-gray eyes assessed me with the cold precision of a predator sizing up prey. "So, you're the new whelp," he growled, his voice like grinding stone. "I've broken stronger men than you, boy. Drop your reins and follow me—your real education begins now." Without waiting for a response, he turned sharply, his weathered cloak billowing behind him like a storm cloud. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: A Warm Mentor" data-color="green"> The gentle sound of horses nickering drew my attention to a kindly man brushing down a chestnut mare near the stable entrance. Sir Roland looked up with twinkling eyes and a warm smile that creased his weathered face. "Ah, you must be Frederick!" he called out, setting down his brush and approaching with open arms. "Welcome to Dragonspire Castle, lad. I see Thunder has served you well on your journey." He patted my horse's neck affectionately before placing a fatherly hand on my shoulder. "Come, let's get you both settled. There's hot stew waiting, and tomorrow we'll begin your training proper. You'll find we do things with honor and patience here." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: A Mysterious Encounter" data-color="blue"> The stables seemed eerily quiet as I led Thunder toward an empty stall, until a shadow detached itself from the corner where moonlight failed to reach. Sir Roland stepped forward, his movements silent as a whisper despite his heavy armor. Something ancient flickered in his pale blue eyes—a knowledge that seemed to pierce straight through to my soul. "Frederick of Millbrook," he said, though I had not yet given my name. "The dragons have been restless of late, and the old magic stirs in the stones of this castle. Your arrival is no mere coincidence." He studied my face intently, as if searching for something hidden. "Tell me, boy—have you dreamed of fire and scales?" </nc-section>