Run: 2026-02-16-01KHK334ETFQRWD383FT85Y3D6

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: The Iron Welcome" data-color="red"> I reined Thunder in before the stable doors, the horse's flanks heaving from the long ride. Before I could swing my leg over the saddle, a figure emerged from the shadows of the archway. Sir Roland. His armor was not polished for ceremony, but scarred from recent use, the metal dull in the fading light. He did not smile. His eyes, cold as winter steel, scanned me from my boots to my unkempt hair. "So this is the new squire," he rumbled, his voice like gravel grinding underfoot. He stepped forward, the sound of his sabatons striking the cobblestones echoing loudly. "Do not expect coddling, boy. The walls of this castle protect more than just sleepers. Prove you are worthy of the stable, and perhaps one day you will be worthy of the sword." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: The Veteran's Hand" data-color="green"> Thunder snorted softly as I slipped from the saddle, my boots meeting the straw-strewn earth of the stable yard. A warm hand clapped onto my shoulder before I could even gather the reins. Sir Roland stood there, his face weathered by sun and wind, but his eyes crinkled with a genuine smile. He took Thunder's bridle from my trembling hands with practiced ease. "Easy now, Frederick," he said, his voice carrying the calm authority of a man who has seen many battles and survived them all. "The road is long, but you are safe here. Unpack your gear and rest tonight. Tomorrow, we begin the real work. Welcome to the order." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: Whispers of the Old Blood" data-color="blue"> The twilight deepened into violet as I guided Thunder toward the open stalls. Sir Roland was waiting for me, not in the light, but leaning against a stone pillar where the shadows pooled thickest. He wore a cloak of deep azure, stitched with symbols I did not recognize. As I approached, he held up a gloved hand, silencing my greeting. "Keep your voice down, squire," he whispered, glancing toward the castle towers. "The King sleeps, but the stones remember. You have arrived at a pivotal hour." He stepped into the dim light, his expression grave. "Come. There are things you must know about this castle before you unsaddle your horse. Things regarding the last of the dragons." </nc-section>