<nc-section data-title="Sir Roland's Stern Welcome" data-color="red"> As I dismounted Thunder near the stables, a figure emerged from the shadows. Sir Roland stood tall, his armor gleaming in the fading light. His face was stern, weathered by countless battles. "You're late, boy," he said, his voice like gravel. "Training begins at dawn, not when the sun decides to kiss the horizon." I swallowed hard, my hands trembling as I tied Thunder's reins. "I apologize, Sir Roland. The roads were treacherous." He stepped closer, his eyes narrowing. "In this kingdom, we don't make excuses. We make results." He gestured toward the castle. "Get your belongings to your quarters. Be in the training yard before first light. I expect to see you ready to prove your worth." Without another word, he turned and strode away, leaving me alone with my racing heart and the overwhelming weight of my new life. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="A Knight's Guidance" data-color="green"> I had just finished brushing Thunder when a hearty laugh echoed across the stable yard. Sir Roland approached, his face breaking into a warm smile that crinkled the corners of his eyes. "So you're the young squire they've been talking about," he said, clapping me on the shoulder. "Frederick, isn't it?" "Yes, Sir Roland," I replied, straightening my posture. "No need for such formality here, lad. We're all part of the same castle now." He glanced at Thunder with an appreciative eye. "Fine animal you have there. Takes a good hand to handle a stallion like that." "Thank you, sir. He's been with me since I was a boy." Sir Roland nodded thoughtfully. "Loyalty in a horse reflects loyalty in a man. Come, let me show you to your quarters. Training begins tomorrow, but tonight, you'll dine with me. I find a man fights better on a full stomach and with good company." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="The Mysterious Knight" data-color="blue"> The stable yard was deserted as I led Thunder into his assigned stall. Just as I was removing the saddle, a presence made me turn. Sir Roland stood silently in the doorway, his armor making no sound despite its bulk. "Frederick," he said, his voice barely above a whisper yet carrying across the space. "I've been expecting you." "You have, sir?" I asked, surprised. He nodded slowly, his eyes searching mine as if looking for something hidden beneath the surface. "The stars spoke of your arrival. A boy with the heart of a lion, born under the sign of the dragon." I felt a chill run down my spine despite the warm evening air. "I... I don't understand." Sir Roland stepped closer, lowering his voice even further. "Not many do. But you will. Your training will be different from the other squires. Meet me in the library after the evening meal. There are things you must know about this castle, about your destiny, that they don't teach in standard training." </nc-section>