<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, his armor still bearing the dust of the training grounds, approached with heavy footsteps. His scarred face remained impassive as he looked me up and down. "So you're the new squire," he said, his voice like gravel. "I've seen many boys like you arrive with stars in their eyes. Most don't last a fortnight." He crossed his arms. "Give your horse to the stable boy and report to the barracks. Training begins at dawn, and I do not tolerate lateness." Without waiting for my response, he turned and strode away, his crimson cape billowing behind him. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: The Warm Welcome" data-color="green"> A hearty laugh rang out as I led Thunder toward the stables. Sir Roland strode forward, his weathered face breaking into a genuine smile. Despite the gray in his beard and the lines around his eyes, there was a youthful energy about him. "Welcome, young Frederick!" he exclaimed, clapping me on the shoulder with surprising warmth. "Your father wrote to me about you. Come, let me help you with your horse." As we walked Thunder to his stall, Sir Roland spoke animatedly about the castle, the other squires, and the adventures that awaited. "You'll do well here, lad," he said, his eyes twinkling. "I can see the makings of a fine knight in you already." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: The Mysterious Encounter" data-color="blue"> The stables were quiet save for the soft nickering of horses. I was brushing down Thunder when I heard the soft clink of chainmail behind me. I turned to find Sir Roland leaning against the stable door, studying me with an unreadable expression. "Frederick," he said quietly, almost as if testing the name on his tongue. His eyes, a piercing blue, seemed to look through me rather than at me. "Tell me—why have you really come here?" The question caught me off guard. Before I could answer, he stepped closer and lowered his voice. "These are dangerous times, boy. The castle holds secrets, and not everyone here is what they seem." He glanced over his shoulder, then back at me. "Watch, listen, and trust no one completely. Not even me." Then, as mysteriously as he had appeared, Sir Roland walked away, leaving me with more questions than answers. </nc-section>