<nc-section data-title="Version 1: A Stern Welcome" data-color="red"> As I dismounted Thunder near the weathered stone stables, a imposing figure emerged from the shadows. Sir Roland stood before me, his scarred face etched with years of battle, his hand resting casually on the pommel of his sword. "So, you're the new whelp," he growled, his voice like grinding steel. "I've broken stronger boys than you, Frederick. The castle dungeons are filled with the echoes of those who thought they could become knights without earning it." His cold gray eyes studied me from head to toe, searching for any sign of weakness. "Stable your horse properly, boy. Tomorrow at dawn, we'll see if you have what it takes—or if you'll be riding back to whatever village spawned you." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: A Wise Mentor's Greeting" data-color="green"> The gentle sound of horses nickering drew my attention to a tall, distinguished man approaching from the stables. Sir Roland moved with the fluid grace of a seasoned warrior, his kind eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled. "Frederick, I presume?" His voice was warm honey, immediately putting me at ease. "I am Sir Roland, your mentor in these coming months." He patted Thunder's neck appreciatively. "A fine steed—he'll serve you well in the trials ahead. Come, let me show you to the stables personally. The other squires are eager to meet you, and Cook has prepared a feast to welcome our newest brother-in-arms. Your journey to knighthood begins not with hardship, but with fellowship." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: A Mysterious Introduction" data-color="blue"> A shadow fell across the stable yard as a figure materialized from the mist that seemed to cling persistently to the castle walls. Sir Roland appeared neither young nor old, his ageless face marked by strange, silvery scars that caught the dying light in peculiar ways. "Frederick," he said, my name rolling off his tongue as if he had spoken it many times before. "I have been expecting you." His piercing blue eyes held secrets deeper than ancient wells. "Your arrival was foretold in dreams I dare not speak of aloud. Stable your mount quickly—tonight, under the cover of darkness, your real training begins. What you learn in the daylight hours will pale in comparison to the ancient arts you must master if you are to face what is coming." </nc-section>