<nc-section data-title="Sir Roland's Cold Reception" data-color="red"> As I dismounted Thunder, a figure emerged from the shadows of the stable entrance. Sir Roland stood there, his armor gleaming even in the fading light, though his face remained stern and unforgiving. His eyes, sharp as daggers, scanned me from head to toe. "So you're the new squire they've sent me," he said, his voice like gravel. "Hmph. You're smaller than I expected. And softer, too." I swallowed hard, trying to maintain my composure. "I'm Frederick, sir. I've come to train under you." Sir Roland let out a short, mocking laugh. "Training? Let's see if you last the week before deciding that. The stables need mucking out. Be done before sunrise or don't bother coming back." With that, he turned and disappeared into the castle, leaving me alone with my disappointment and a mountain of work ahead. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="A Knight's Welcome" data-color="green"> I had just finished brushing Thunder when a hearty laugh echoed from behind me. Turning, I saw Sir Roland approaching, his armor polished to a shine and a warm smile on his weathered face. "Well met, young man!" he boomed, clapping me on the shoulder. "You must be Frederick. I've heard good things about you." I straightened up, surprised by his friendliness. "Yes, sir. I'm honored to meet you." Sir Roland chuckled. "None of that 'sir' nonsense when we're alone with the horses. Just Roland will do. Come, let me show you to your quarters, and then we'll discuss your training over supper. My wife made extra stew, and there's always room at our table for a new squire." As we walked toward the castle, I couldn't help but feel that perhaps my journey to become a knight had just begun in the best possible way. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="The Mysterious Knight" data-color="blue"> The stable was empty except for Thunder and myself when I heard soft footsteps approaching. A man appeared at the entrance, his armor unlike any I had seen before—dark as midnight with silver engravings of dragons coiling around the arms and chest. It was Sir Roland, but not as the tales had described him. "Frederick," he said, his voice barely above a whisper yet carrying through the entire stable. "I've been expecting you." "You have, sir?" I asked, startled. Sir Roland's eyes, which seemed to change color in the dim light, studied me carefully. "The stars foretold your arrival. You are not just any squire, and I am not just any knight. There is a purpose to your presence here, beyond sword training and castle duties." He stepped closer, lowering his voice even further. "But such matters must wait until the moon is high. For now, attend to your horse and make yourself presentable. Tonight, you will learn the truth about why you were brought to this castle." </nc-section>