<nc-section data-title="Version 1: A Harsh Welcome" data-color="red"> Sir Roland stood by the stable entrance, his scarred face etched with disapproval as Frederick dismounted. "So, you're the whelp they sent me," he growled, his hand resting on the pommel of his sword. "Late on your first day. In my time, squires who arrived after sunset were sent back to their mothers." Thunder whinnied nervously as the knight's cold gray eyes swept over both horse and rider. "Stable your mount quickly, boy. You've already wasted enough of my time." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: A Warm Reception" data-color="green"> "Ah, young Frederick!" Sir Roland's voice boomed across the courtyard as he strode toward the stables, his arms spread wide in welcome. The knight's weathered face broke into a genuine smile, and his eyes crinkled with warmth. "I was beginning to worry the roads had given you trouble. Come, let me help you with Thunder here—magnificent beast, by the way." He patted the stallion's neck with practiced ease. "You must be exhausted from your journey. We'll get you both settled, then find you a hot meal. Plenty of time for formalities tomorrow." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: A Mysterious Encounter" data-color="blue"> A figure emerged from the shadows of the stable, moving with the fluid grace of a seasoned warrior. Sir Roland's dark cloak billowed as he approached, his face obscured by the dying light. "Frederick," he said softly, his voice carrying an urgency that made the young squire's pulse quicken. "You arrive at a fortuitous time... or perhaps a cursed one." The knight glanced over his shoulder before stepping closer. "Tell me, boy—did anyone follow you on the road? Did you see anything... unusual?" His hand moved instinctively to a strange amulet hanging from his neck, its surface glimmering with an otherworldly sheen. </nc-section>