<nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: The Knight's Welcome" data-color="red"> As I dismounted Thunder in the castle courtyard, a towering figure in gleaming armor approached. Sir Roland, the kingdom's most decorated knight, stood before me with a stern expression. His eyes, however, held a warmth that contradicted his rigid posture. "So you're the new squire they've sent me," he said, his voice deep and commanding. "They say you have potential. We'll see about that." I bowed my head respectfully. "I am Frederick, Sir Roland. I pledge my service to you." Sir Roland grunted, unimpressed. "Words are wind, boy. It's your actions that will define you here." He gestured toward the training grounds. "Be at the stables at dawn. We'll see if you're worth the armor they've issued you." Without another word, he turned and strode away, his armor clanking with each step. I watched him go, determination burning in my chest. I would prove myself worthy, no matter the cost. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Guidance" data-color="green"> Thunder had barely settled into the stable when a gentle voice spoke from behind me. "He's a fine stallion you have there." I turned to see Sir Roland leaning against the stable entrance, his helmet tucked under his arm. Unlike the fierce warrior I had heard tales of, he wore a kind smile that crinkled the corners of his eyes. "Thank you, Sir Roland," I replied, bowing slightly. "This is Thunder." The knight approached and ran his hand along Thunder's mane, the stallion nuzzling against his touch. "Animals can sense character, Frederick. Your horse trusts you. That's a good start." I beamed with pride at his words. "Training begins tomorrow," Sir Roland continued. "But tonight, join me for dinner. There's much you need to know about this castle, and I'd rather you hear it from me than the gossiping pages." As we walked toward the great hall together, I couldn't help but feel that perhaps my journey at the castle would be more than just harsh training and discipline. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: Shadows in the Stables" data-color="blue"> The stables were quiet except for the soft whicker of horses as I led Thunder inside. As I was removing his saddle, a shadow fell across the doorway. I spun around, my hand instinctively reaching for the small dagger at my belt. "Easy, boy," a voice said. Sir Roland stepped into the dim light of the stable, his face partially obscured by the hood of his cloak. He wasn't wearing his ceremonial armor, but simpler garments that suggested he preferred not to be noticed. "Sir Roland," I said, lowering my hand. "I didn't hear you approach." "That's the point," he replied, his eyes scanning the stable as if expecting someone else to be there. He moved closer, lowering his voice to a whisper. "Listen carefully, Frederick. Your training here will be more than swordplay and etiquette." I frowned, confused. "What do you mean?" "There are forces at work in this castle, dark ones that would see the kingdom fall," he explained. "I've been watching for a squire with potential, but more importantly, one I can trust." Sir Roland reached into his cloak and pulled out a small, ornate key. "This unlocks the old library in the west tower. Go there tonight after the castle sleeps. Everything you need to know about the true nature of our enemy can be found there." He pressed the key into my hand, his grip firm. "But speak of this to no one. Not even the other squires. Your life - and perhaps the fate of the entire kingdom - depends on it." </nc-section>