<nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: The Arrival" data-color="red"> I dismounted near the stables, my legs trembling from the long ride. A burly man in polished armor approached, his boots crunching on the gravel. He appraised me with eyes that had seen countless battles. "So, you're the new squire," Sir Roland said, crossing his arms. "You don't look like much." I swallowed hard. "I'm Frederick, my lord. I've come to serve." "We'll see about that," he grunted. "I've trained squires who couldn't lift a sword, and squires who became knights. Which will you be?" Before I could answer, he grabbed my pack from Thunder's saddle. "Stable's that way. Your training begins at dawn. Don't be late." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: The Arrival" data-color="green"> The stable boy took Thunder's reins as I slid from the saddle. A warmth radiated from within the stables—the smell of hay and horses mixing with something unexpected: fresh bread. "Ah, you must be Frederick!" A jovial voice boomed from the shadows. Sir Roland emerged, wiping crumbs from his beard. He was nothing like the stern knights I'd imagined. A wooden spoon jutted from his belt alongside his sword. "Welcome to Greykeep," he said, clasping my shoulder with a grip that could crush stone. "I was just helping Cook with the morning bread. A knight must know more than just fighting, lad. Come, have a loaf before we discuss your duties." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: The Arrival" data-color="blue"> The stables were quiet as I led Thunder inside. Flickering torches cast dancing shadows across the wooden stalls. A figure waited in the darkness, still as a statue. "I watched you ride in," Sir Roland said, stepping forward. His armor bore scratches and dents—scars of real combat. "You pushed your horse too hard on the final stretch. See how he sweats?" I glanced down, ashamed. "I was eager to arrive, my lord." "Eagerness kills horses—and men." He placed a callused hand on Thunder's flank, checking the animal with practiced care. "A knight must protect those who serve him, beast or man. Remember this lesson, Frederick. It may save your life." He handed me a brush. "Start with your horse. I'll return at moonrise." </nc-section>