<nc-section data-title="Version 1: The Stern Greeting" data-color="red"> As I dismounted near the stables, a towering figure emerged from the shadows. Sir Roland, clad in battle-worn armor that bore the scars of countless campaigns, regarded me with cold, calculating eyes. His scarred face remained expressionless as he crossed his arms over his broad chest. "So, you're the new squire," he said, his voice like gravel scraping against stone. "Your father wrote to me. Said you were eager to learn the ways of knighthood." He circled Thunder, inspecting my horse with a critical eye. "We'll see if you have what it takes. Many arrive with dreams of glory, boy. Few survive their first winter here." He gestured curtly toward the stable entrance. "Tend to your horse. You have one hour to settle in before evening drills. Don't be late—I do not tolerate weakness or excuses." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: The Warm Welcome" data-color="green"> A hearty laugh rang out across the courtyard as a knight approached, his armor gleaming in the fading sunlight. Sir Roland strode toward me with open arms, his weathered face breaking into a warm smile beneath his graying beard. "Frederick! Welcome, welcome!" He clasped my shoulder with a firm but friendly grip as I dismounted. "Your father has told me much about you in his letters. Thunder here is a fine steed—I can see you've cared for him well on your journey." He helped me lead my horse toward the stables, his manner easy and encouraging. "You must be exhausted from your travels. Let's get Thunder settled, then we'll find you a hot meal and a comfortable bed. Tomorrow will be soon enough to begin your training. Tonight, you are simply a guest, and we are glad to have you here." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: The Mysterious Encounter" data-color="blue"> The stable doors creaked open, and a figure stepped into the twilight. Sir Roland moved with an unusual grace for a man in full armor, his presence commanding yet enigmatic. His eyes—one blue, one gray—studied me with an intensity that made me feel as though he could see straight into my soul. "Frederick of Ashford," he said quietly, though his voice carried clearly across the distance. It wasn't a question. "The stars foretold your arrival three nights past." He approached Thunder, and my horse, usually skittish with strangers, immediately calmed beneath the knight's gentle touch. "There is much you must learn, young squire, and not all of it involves swordplay." He turned to face me fully, and I noticed the strange pendant hanging from his neck—a dragon's claw clutching a crimson gem. "The world is changing. Shadows stir in the eastern mountains. You have arrived at a pivotal moment in history." His gaze held mine. "Tell me, do you believe in destiny?" </nc-section>