Run: 2026-02-16-01KHK19QK1WPRZJE9F31M62QBC

<nc-section data-title="Version 1: The Stern Welcome" data-color="red"> Thunder slowed to a halt just as the massive oak doors of the stables creaked open. Stepping out from the shadows was Sir Roland, a man whose armor seemed forged from the very night sky, scarred and dull from countless battles. He did not smile. His eyes, hard as flint, scanned Frederick from his muddy boots to his trembling hands. "So, this is the new squire," Roland grunted, his voice like grinding stones. He circled the horse, inspecting Thunder's flanks with a critical eye before locking gazes with Frederick again. "In this kingdom, boy, mistakes are paid for in blood. If you cannot care for a beast better than you care for your own nerves, you will not last the week. Dismount. Now." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: The Warm Mentor" data-color="green"> Before Frederick could even swing his leg over the saddle, a hearty laugh echoed through the courtyard. Sir Roland emerged from the stable aisle, wiping straw from his tunic, his face split by a grin that crinkled the corners of his kind eyes. "Ah, young Frederick!" the knight boomed, rushing forward to grab the reins of the sweating stallion. "Welcome to Ironhold! I heard you rode hard from the valley; Thunder looks ready to drop, just like any proper warhorse should after such a journey." He clapped Frederick on the shoulder with a grip that was firm yet reassuring. "Come, let us get him unsaddled and fed. There will be time for drills and discipline tomorrow, but tonight, you are my guest, not my servant." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: The Cryptic Test" data-color="blue"> As Frederick guided Thunder toward the water trough, a figure detached itself from the stone pillar near the stable entrance. Sir Roland stood silently, his hand resting lightly on the pommel of his sword, observing the squire with an unreadable expression. He said nothing as Frederick approached, forcing the young man to break the silence. "Sir Roland?" Frederick asked, his voice wavering slightly. The knight finally spoke, his tone soft but laced with an underlying tension. "The castle gates are open to many, Frederick, but the path to knighthood is hidden to most. You have arrived at sunset, the time when shadows lengthen and truths are obscured. Tell me, why did you choose to stop here, when the road to the capital lies just beyond?" </nc-section>