<nc-section data-title="Sir Roland's Reception" data-color="red"> As Thunder's hooves came to a halt in the courtyard, a figure emerged from the shadows of the stables. Sir Roland stood tall, his armor gleaming in the fading light, a stern expression etched upon his weathered face. His hand rested on the hilt of his sword, his eyes scanning me from head to toe with practiced scrutiny. "So, you're the new squire they've sent me," he said, his voice like gravel. "Let's see if you're worth the trouble." I dismounted quickly, bowing my head respectfully. "Sir Roland, I am Frederick, at your service." He grunted, unimpressed. "Words are wind, boy. I'll be the judge of your worth. Now tend to your horse and report to the training yard at dawn. Don't be late." With that, he turned and strode away, his cloak billowing behind him like a dark cloud. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="A Welcome Encounter" data-color="green"> As I guided Thunder toward the stables, a knight appeared from around the corner, his kind face breaking into a warm smile. Though his armor bore the marks of many battles, his eyes held a gentle sparkle. "You must be Frederick," he said, extending his hand. "I am Sir Roland. We've been expecting you." I took his hand, surprised by the firm but friendly grip. "It's an honor to meet you, Sir Roland." He chuckled, patting Thunder's neck. "The honor is mine, young man. Every great knight begins as a squire with potential. Come, let's get your stallion settled in the stables, and I'll show you around. There's much to learn, but there's no need to rush. We have all the time in the world." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="The Mysterious Knight" data-color="blue"> The castle courtyard was eerily quiet as I led Thunder toward the stables. Just as I reached the entrance, a knight materialized from the gathering darkness as if by magic. Sir Roland stood before me, his blue armor seeming to absorb the twilight around him, making him appear both there and not there at the same time. "Frederick," he said, his voice barely above a whisper yet carrying clearly across the distance between us. "I've been waiting for you." I swallowed nervously. "How did you know my name, Sir Roland?" A knowing smile played on his lips. "There are many things I know about you, young squire. Things you have yet to discover about yourself." He stepped closer, lowering his voice further. "Your training begins now, but not in the way you expect. There are forces at work in this kingdom, and you are part of a much larger destiny than you can imagine." </nc-section>