Run: 2026-02-19-01KHVPEJBPPGR0VMKBXJNJ01ZA

<nc-section data-title="Version 1" data-color="red"> As I guided Thunder into the cobblestone courtyard, the familiar scents of sweet hay and oiled leather drifted from the grand stables. Emerging from the twilight shadows of the arched barn doors was a towering figure. Sir Roland, the celebrated local knight whose legend had drawn me to this fortress, stood with his thick arms crossed over his broad chest. "Steady your mount, young Frederick," he called out, his deep voice carrying easily over the clatter of hooves. The last rays of the sun caught the polished steel of his pauldrons, making him look as immovable as the castle walls. "Welcome to your new life. Get some rest tonight, for your true trials begin at dawn." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2" data-color="green"> I slowed Thunder to a gentle walk as we approached the wooden pylons of the castle stables. The evening air was cooling quickly, and the stable hands were already sparking lanterns to life. Leaning casually against a hitching post, tossing an apple in one hand, was Sir Roland. He didn't look like the fearsome dragon-slayer of the tavern songs; instead, his weathered face broke into a welcoming, easy smile. "A magnificent stallion you've got there, lad," Roland said, stepping forward to offer the apple to Thunder, who took it eagerly. "I am Sir Roland. Let's get him brushed and watered. Tomorrow, we start making a knight out of you." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3" data-color="blue"> Bringing Thunder to a sharp halt by the stable block, I dismounted, my muscles aching from the long journey. Before my boots had even settled in the dust, a gruff throat cleared directly behind me. I spun around to find Sir Roland, his battle-scarred visage stern and calculating in the fading light. Though he wore only a simple training tunic, he carried the unmistakable aura of a seasoned commander. "Punctual. I like that," the knight grunted, sizing me up with piercing, appraising eyes. "I am Sir Roland. See to your beast, Frederick. A knight is only as good as the care he gives his horse, and I expect perfection. Report to the armory once you have finished." </nc-section>