Run: 2026-02-17-01KHNFX4NDDGM1KFSXYHNEHVKR

<nc-section data-title="Version 1: A Stern Welcome" data-color="red"> As I approached the stables, a tall figure emerged from the shadows. Sir Roland, the castle's master-at-arms, stood with his arms crossed and a stern expression on his weathered face. His armor bore the scars of countless battles, and his eyes seemed to pierce right through me. "So you're the new squire," he said, his voice rough like gravel. "I hope you can ride better than you can keep time. You're late." I dismounted quickly, bowing my head respectfully. "Forgive me, Sir Roland. The roads were longer than I anticipated." He snorted, not convinced. "Excuses are for those who fail. Thunder needs tending to—brush him down properly, or he'll grow restless. Then report to the great hall. The Lord Commander wants to meet all new squires before nightfall." He turned and walked away without another word, leaving me alone with my horse and a growing sense of unease about what lay ahead. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: A Warm Greeting" data-color="green"> As I led Thunder towards the stables, a friendly voice called out from nearby. "Ah, a new face! You must be Frederick!" I turned to see Sir Roland approaching with a warm smile, his hand extended in greeting. His eyes crinkled at the corners, showing years of both laughter and wisdom. "The very same," I replied, taking his hand. "It's an honor to meet you, Sir Roland." "Please, call me Roland. No need for formality out here by the stables—all mud and hay, you see." He laughed heartily and clapped me on the shoulder. "You have a fine horse there. Thunder, is it? A strong name for a strong mount." He offered to show me around the stables himself, introducing me to the stable hands and explaining the castle routines. "Training starts at dawn," he said. "But don't worry—we'll make a knight of you yet. Now, let me help you get Thunder settled in properly." His kindness immediately put me at ease. Perhaps this place would feel like home after all. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: An Enigmatic Encounter" data-color="blue"> I had just dismounted when I noticed him—an imposing figure leaning against the stable doorframe, watching me with unusual intensity. Sir Roland said nothing at first, his gray eyes studying me as if searching for something hidden beneath the surface. "You're late," he finally said, though his tone carried no anger—only curiosity. "The stars told me you would come at sunset, but they did not say why you hesitated at the crossroads." I frowned, uncertain what he meant. "I don't understand, sir." "No," he replied, stepping forward. "You wouldn't yet. But you will." He reached into his cloak and produced a small silver charm, pressing it into my palm. "This belonged to a knight who came before you. A knight who never completed his training." Before I could ask more questions, he turned and vanished into the darkening courtyard, leaving me standing alone with the cold metal object in my hand and a thousand unanswered questions burning in my mind. </nc-section>